Downey Jr. Cast as Doctor Doom in MCU

Chris Evans has expressed sadness about not returning as Captain America in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday, which is scheduled for release in December 2026 and will feature Robert Downey Jr. in the role of Doctor Doom. Downey Jr.'s transition from Iron Man to Doctor Doom has generated excitement and surprise among fans and former co-stars, with Evans describing his reaction as disbelief but intrigue. Marvel Studios has confirmed that despite Downey Jr.'s casting as Doom, he will not appear in The Fantastic Four: First Steps, which will instead feature Galactus as the main antagonist. Director Matt Shakman has reiterated that Doctor Doom will not be part of the Fantastic Four film, though speculation continues about a possible post-credits appearance. The Fantastic Four: First Steps is inspired by multiversal comic storylines, including the Council of Reeds, suggesting a broader multiverse approach for the MCU. Marvel appears to be balancing legacy casting with the introduction of new characters and storylines for its next franchise phase.