Robert Downey Jr. Set for Record Payday as Doctor Doom in New Avengers Films

Marvel is strategically returning to its roots by reuniting with Robert Downey Jr. and the Russo brothers, the powerhouse team behind the blockbuster hits “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Avengers: Endgame.”

The reunion represents a significant investment, with Marvel allocating $80 million for Anthony and Joe Russo to direct “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Avengers: Secret Wars.” The Russos’ compensation includes performance bonuses at the $750 million and $1 billion box office milestones. They will also produce the films under their AGBO banner, diverging from Marvel’s typical use of in-house producers.

Robert Downey Jr., who played a crucial role in establishing Marvel’s cinematic dominance with his portrayal of Tony Stark in “Iron Man,” is on track to surpass the financial rewards of his previous roles. Fresh off an Oscar win for Best Supporting Actor in “Oppenheimer,” Downey now ranks as the highest-paid actor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His contract includes perks such as private jet access and dedicated security, guaranteeing him a significant payday.

The filming landscape, however, is changing. Unlike the previous “Avengers” films, which were shot primarily in Atlanta, the upcoming projects will take place in London starting in the second quarter of 2025.

With challenges from underperforming releases and the fallout from Jonathan Majors’ legal troubles, Marvel has decided to shift its narrative focus from Kang to Doctor Doom.

With the Russo brothers directing and Downey’s star power driving the projects, Marvel is ready to recalibrate and target box office success again. An executive close to the project praised the strategic alignment of Downey with the Russos, noting it as a crucial move that sets the stage for a potentially lucrative chapter in the Marvel saga.