Robert Downey Jr. sent MCU fans' tongues a-waggin' when he strode onstage at San Diego Comic Con and revealed himself as Dr. Doom. The unveiling signaled Downey's return to the cinematic universe that has held Hollywood in its thrall for over 16 years — since, in fact, the actor's debut in 2008's Iron Man.
Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige — with a little help from Disney CEO Bob Iger — convinced RDJ to get back in the superhero game, he explained on The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Chatter podcast published Tuesday.
Downey was originally interested in contributing to Disney theme parks when he and wife Susan Downey sat down with Feige, with whom he has remained good friends.
“He said, ‘It just keeps occurring to me, if you were to come back …’” Downey said. “Susan was like, ‘Wait, wait. Come back as what?’”
Feige wanted to make sure that they didn't "go backwards" or "disappoint expectations" but rather "continue to beat expectations,” Downey said.