Robert Downey Jr. is making a surprising return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but this time as Doctor Doom. Fans are eager to see how he will bring this iconic villain to life.

Robert Downey Jr. is making a surprising return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but not as Iron Man. Instead, he will take on the role of Doctor Doom in the new “Avengers” movie, titled **”Avengers: Doomsday.”** Directed by Joe and Anthony Russo, who are also returning to Marvel, the film will introduce Victor von Doom/Doctor Doom. The Russo brothers are set to helm two new “Avengers” movies: “Doomsday” and “Avengers: Secret Wars.”

While Downey had recently shown openness to returning to Marvel, many fans expected him to reprise his iconic role as Iron Man/Tony Stark. His return as the villainous Victor von Doom has shocked fans, creating a buzz at Marvel’s San Diego Comic-Con presentation. Downey made a memorable appearance in Hall H on Saturday evening, revealing his new role amidst a sea of hooded figures and masks resembling Doctor Doom.

“I like playing complicated characters,” Downey said as fans chanted his name.

Downey’s journey in the Marvel Cinematic Universe began with his debut as the playboy super-genius Tony Stark in 2008’s “Iron Man,” the first film in the MCU created by Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige. Over the next 11 years, Downey starred in 10 Marvel films, including “Iron Man 2,” “Iron Man 3,” “The Incredible Hulk,” “The Avengers,” “Captain America: Civil War,” “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” “Spider-Man: Homecoming,” “Avengers: Infinity War,” and “Avengers: Endgame.”

“Endgame” marked the death of Iron Man, and Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige had previously stated he was not interested in revisiting Downey’s emotional exit.