Robert Downey Jr. welcomes Ironheart premiere with warmth and encouragement, calling Dominique Thorne to mark the debut of Marvel’s latest hero on Disney+. The iconic Iron Man actor offered support and heartfelt words as Thorne stepped into the spotlight with the new Ironheart series, launching globally on June 24.
Robert Downey Jr. Reaches Out to Dominique Thorne
On the day Ironheart made its highly anticipated premiere, Robert Downey Jr. reached out to Dominique Thorne through a lively FaceTime call, spreading encouragement and excitement for her Marvel debut. Their exchange quickly became heartfelt, starting with Downey Jr.’s cheerful greeting, as seen in a video posted on Instagram. He playfully hinted at the day’s dual significance, referencing June 24, a date tied both to his late father and the start of a new chapter for Ironheart.
Thorne responded with thoughtful acknowledgment of Downey Jr.’s father’s birthday, which he confirmed with a touched reaction, shifting focus to the excitement of Ironheart’s release:
My dad’s birthday, thanks for your consideration,
—Robert Downey Jr., Actor
Also — God, you’ve been doing too much press — Ironheart premieres today!
—Robert Downey Jr., Actor
Thorne’s exuberance shone through as Downey Jr. reinforced the milestone event:
It’s all been leading to this. Isn’t that exciting?
—Robert Downey Jr., Actor
The exchange continued with deep appreciation for the Marvel journey so far:
17 years from the birth of the MCU to the premiere of Ironheart,
—Robert Downey Jr., Actor
And we’re in this love together. So psyched. I’ve grown so fond of you, it’s bananas.
—Robert Downey Jr., Actor
Downey Jr. concluded his pep talk with words of unity and encouragement as the series made its worldwide debut:
I’ll be watching it with the world and we’ll keep each other posted,
—Robert Downey Jr., Actor
Thorne replied enthusiastically to his supportive message:
Oh my God, okay, yes we will,
—Dominique Thorne, Actress
Downey Jr. wrapped up the call with an energetic, “Ironheart, let’s go!” making it clear the baton had been warmly passed.
Passing the Torch from Iron Man to Ironheart
Although Dominique Thorne and Robert Downey Jr. have not appeared together in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, she continues his legacy by taking up the Iron-themed mantle after Tony Stark’s on-screen death in Avengers: Endgame. Thorne reprises her role as Riri Williams, the inventive and courageous protagonist, initially introduced in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, who now stars in her own series. Ironheart follows Riri as she returns to her Chicago roots, only to be drawn into a complex conflict against Parker Robbins, also known as the Hood, portrayed by Anthony Ramos.
Downey Jr. publicly endorsed Thorne and the new series just days before the premiere, surprising both Thorne and Ramos with an unexpected message during their Good Morning America interview. His recognition and advice provided a powerful boost for the show’s new cast.
Messages of Support and Anticipation for the New Marvel Series
The moment on Good Morning America further highlighted Downey Jr.’s support as Robin Roberts paused the interview to share a pre-recorded message from him:
Do you mind if we interrupt the interview for just a moment, because I think we have a very special message. I think you’re going to recognize who this is,
—Robin Roberts, Television Host
Ms. Thorne, I couldn’t be happier than to be seeing you bring Riri Williams to life,
—Robert Downey Jr., Actor
Downey Jr.’s humor showed as he addressed both Thorne’s hero and Ramos’ villainous character:
But the Hood has me nervous. Is the hood green? Please tell me Mr. Ramos is not replacing me as Doctor Doom via Parker Robbins. Is there something they’re not telling me?
—Robert Downey Jr., Actor
The actor’s message culminated in a symbol of affection and approval, drawing the Marvel community closer:
Long story short, Iron Man loves Ironheart.
—Robert Downey Jr., Actor
Thorne mirrored the gesture in the studio, sharing the bond between the original Iron Man and his successor before reiterating her own admiration.
Ironheart Episodes and What Lies Ahead for Marvel
Ironheart debuted with its first three episodes on June 24 on Disney+, while the final three installments are set for release on July 1. The series spotlights Riri Williams’ journey navigating new threats and relationships as she assumes a central role in Marvel’s expanding universe. As Downey Jr. prepares to return to the MCU as the villain Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday, anticipation builds for future connections between beloved characters and newcomers like Riri Williams and Parker Robbins.
With this significant passing of the torch, Downey Jr.’s endorsement not only energizes Dominique Thorne and her fans but also links the experiences of past and futuristic Marvel heroes, ensuring continuity in Marvel’s evolving storylines. The outpouring of support, emotional moments, and shared excitement mark Ironheart’s arrival as a pivotal event, both for established stars and emerging talent in the Marvel Universe.
