Robert Downey Jr. is making an unexpected return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Doctor Doom in the upcoming film Avengers: Doomsday, set to release in theaters on December 18, 2026. This new role marks a dramatic shift for Downey, who has been famously known for playing Iron Man, Tony Stark, for over a decade. The focus on Robert Downey Jr Doctor Doom has generated excitement among fans eager to see how he will bring this iconic villain to life.
Simu Liu, who joined the MCU with Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings in 2021, confirmed he will reprise his role as Shang-Chi in Avengers: Doomsday, adding to the film’s strong ensemble. During a recent interview, Liu opened up about his experience filming alongside Downey and other MCU veterans, emphasizing the inspiring atmosphere on set.
Insights from Simu Liu on Working with Robert Downey Jr.
Liu described his time on the Avengers: Doomsday set as nothing short of a dream come true. He said,
“Every day feels like a dream. I go to work and get to work alongside people I admire and respect. Some of them are actors I watched back when I was a kid — before I ever even thought about becoming an actor myself.”
—Simu Liu, Actor
He went on to share the emotional mix he felt while performing with such established actors:
“To be with those kinds of people, to be able to learn from them — it’s honestly unbelievable. To hear their stories, to sometimes even suggest something myself, to perform scenes together — it’s just incredible… It’s a mix of joy and excitement, but also fear and anxiety. That’s human, right?”
—Simu Liu, Actor
When asked who stood out most as an inspiration on set, Liu pointed directly to Robert Downey Jr.:
“If I had to give a simple answer, it would be Robert Downey Jr… He’s indispensable to Marvel’s success and has appeared in so many films over the years. And yet, despite all that, he still spends time meeting people, building relationships. He’s genuinely kind, treats everyone equally, and is incredibly inspiring.”
—Simu Liu, Actor
Liu assured fans that Downey’s portrayal of Doctor Doom will be remarkable, promising that audiences will be “blown away” by the actor’s transformation after his legacy as Tony Stark.
Current Status of Shang-Chi Sequel Amid MCU’s Busy Schedule
Although a sequel to Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings has been confirmed, progress on the project has slowed recently, with few updates from those involved. Director Destin Daniel Cretton, who helmed the first Shang-Chi film, is focusing on directing the upcoming Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Given the MCU’s packed calendar with Avengers releases in 2026 and 2027, Shang-Chi 2 appears to be temporarily sidelined. Nevertheless, fans remain eager to see more of Simu Liu’s character in future Marvel projects.
Key Cast Members Joining Avengers: Doomsday
The cast lineup for Avengers: Doomsday features several notable actors, each reprising or taking on significant Marvel roles. Chris Hemsworth returns as Thor, while Vanessa Kirby will appear as Sue Storm, also known as the Invisible Woman. Joseph Quinn takes on the role of Johnny Storm, the Human Torch, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach is set to portray Ben Grimm, famously known as The Thing. This diverse and powerful cast is expected to deliver a dynamic and compelling story alongside Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom.
Significance and Anticipation for Avengers: Doomsday
Robert Downey Jr.’s shift from the heroic Tony Stark to the villainous Doctor Doom signals a bold new chapter for the MCU’s evolving narrative. His involvement brings a blend of nostalgia and novelty that is sure to captivate longtime Marvel fans and newcomers alike. As the MCU continues to expand its multiverse saga, Avengers: Doomsday promises to be a pivotal installment that deepens character arcs and raises the stakes for the entire franchise. Viewers can look forward to December 18, 2026, when this highly anticipated film hits theaters worldwide.
