Robert Downey Jr. Was Considered For Doctor Doom in 2005's 'Fantastic Four'

Long before it was announced that he would portray Victor von Doom, also known as Doctor Doom, in the upcoming Avengers movies, Robert Downey Jr. was reportedly considered for the role in the 2005 film ‘Fantastic Four’. This early casting discussion highlights Downey’s long-standing association with Marvel characters.

In a 2023 video released by Marvel Entertainment, which features a retrospective conversation between actor-director Jon Favreau and Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige, Feige revealed that as the producer of ‘Fantastic Four’, he “had already met with [Downey] for Doctor Doom.” Favreau, reflecting on the casting process for the 2008 film ‘Iron Man’, recalled that Downey had previously come in for a general meeting. 

Also Read: Why Marvel Cast Robert Downey Jr. as Dr Doom

This indicates that Downey was a candidate not only for the ‘Fantastic Four’ films but also for other Marvel projects, including ‘Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer,’ which Feige also produced.

The role of Doctor Doom in the original ‘Fantastic Four’ film ultimately went to Julian McMahon, while the film starred Ioan Gruffudd, Jessica Alba, Chris Evans, and Michael Chiklis. A new Fantastic Four movie, set to integrate into the official Marvel Cinematic Universe and featuring Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, and Joseph Quinn, is slated for release shortly.

It was ‘Iron Man’, directed by Favreau and produced by Feige, that marked the beginning of what would evolve into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Favreau recalled, “I remember sitting down with [Downey], and I was like, ‘Jeez, he’s just got that spark in him, in his eye, and he’s just ready.’” He noted that during their discussions, they were excited about Downey’s potential, which led to him being cast in the role. Soon after, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jeff Bridges, and other cast members were brought on board.

Onstage, the directors emphasised the necessity of “one very important character required to do Secret Wars justice,” hinting that they needed “the greatest actor in the world.” Downey Jr. made a dramatic entrance, emerging from behind a mask and robes. He playfully commented, “New mask, same task. What did I tell ya? I like playing complicated characters.” This moment underscored his enthusiasm for taking on complex roles, reaffirming his integral role in the Marvel franchise.

-Sushmita Sarkar