Marvel fans, brace yourselves…

In an unexpected turn of events, it has been announced that former Iron Man star Robert Downey Jr. is set for a shock return to the MCU as Doctor Doom in the next two Avengers films.

The Oscar-winning actor surprised fans at Comic-Con in San Diego last night when he was dramatically unmasked by a Marvel panel.

Downey Jr. is already a household name with fans of the superhero franchise, having played the heroic role of Tony Stark and his alter-ego Iron Man in nine Marvel films between 2008 and 2019.

However, the seasoned actor will be tackling a completely opposite character in the form of the sinister Doctor Doom, a complex and intimidating villain who boasts mastery over both magic and science.

Downey Jr.’s Doom will make his first appearance in the upcoming Avengers sequel Doomsday, with Infinity War and Endgame directors Joe and Anthony Russo back on board behind the camera.

Doomsday is set for release in May 2026 and will be followed by Secret Wars in May 2027.

In the meantime, here are a selection of some of Downey Jr’s best moments as Tony…