Avengers: Endgame Theory Suggests Robert Downey Jr’s Doctor Doom Was Created by Thanos

The MCU landscape is set to shift dramatically with the upcoming film Avengers: Doomsday, which marks the return of Robert Downey Jr. to Marvel Studios—not as Iron Man, but in a bold new role as Doctor Doom. After a notable five-year absence, following more than a decade embodying the iconic Tony Stark, his casting as the formidable Victor Von Doom has spurred numerous theories among fans regarding this significant transition.

As one of Marvel Comics’ most enduring supervillains, Doctor Doom’s introduction in the MCU under Downey Jr.’s portrayal is a fascinating development. His prior association with Iron Man raises questions, leaving many to wonder how Marvel will address this dramatic shift. While an official explanation has not yet been provided, speculation abounds regarding how Downey Jr.’s new character might fit within the established multiversal framework established in recent Marvel outings.

RDJ’s Doctor Doom Emerges From Thanos’ New Universe: An Exploration

Thanos’ Attempt to Forge a New Reality in Avengers: Endgame

A captivating theory emerged from Reddit user Forever-Royalty suggesting that Robert Downey Jr.’s portrayal of Doctor Doom may stem from events depicted in Avengers: Endgame. The film not only served as a pivotal moment in the MCU, crystallizing various plotlines leading into the Multiverse Saga but also hinted at Thanos’ potential to reset the universe. Should this scenario have unfolded in a different reality, it provides a unique backdrop for Doctor Doom’s character resurgence.

Avengers Doomsday THEORY by u/Forever-Royalty in MarvelTheories

While certain aspects of this theory might be considered far-fetched, it opens the door to the idea that the multiversal reality born from Thanos’ actions could introduce alternate versions of established characters. This new realm might showcase a narrative wherein Tony Stark did not thwart Thanos’ plan, thus allowing a more potent villain to rise in Doctor Doom.

A Theory Revealing Thanos’ Possible Return

Josh Brolin Hints at Thanos’ Return to the MCU

In a recent interview, actor Josh Brolin, who famously portrayed Thanos, hinted at the character’s potential comeback to the MCU. He mentioned to ComicBook that he has heard whispers of a return, suggesting conceptual plans for a Phase 6 resurgence. This aligns intriguingly with the aforementioned theory, as this reconstructed narrative could afford Thanos a more prominent role.

“You know, I hear kind of like through the grapevine, that they’re gonna bring [Thanos] back… But I didn’t know that he was the most killed-off Marvel villain… You learn something new every day.”

Echoing these sentiments in an October 2024 interview, Brolin expressed willingness to collaborate with the Russo brothers—previous directors of his Thanos portrayal. Given their return for future Marvel installments, this scenario fuels the speculation that Thanos may play a significant role in upcoming films.

Exploring the Potential for Twisted Versions of MCU Icons

Returning MCU Veterans Beyond Downey Jr.

The possibility that Thanos’ newly-established universe could harbor twisted adaptations of beloved Marvel characters is rife with opportunity. Downey Jr.’s shift to playing the villain Doctor Doom opens the floodgates for other past MCU actors to return in unexpected roles. Recent announcements of Chris Evans and Hayley Atwell’s involvement in Avengers: Doomsday have sparked theories regarding their potential portrayals.

Evans could potentially embrace a dark variant of Captain America, influenced by HYDRA, creating a formidable dynamic. Speculations around an evil Avengers team further heighten intrigue as fans consider how these characters might navigate the landscape designed by a new Thanos.

The Significance of the Connection Between Doctor Doom and Thanos in Upcoming Movies

Possible Adaptations from Secret Wars in the MCU

God Emperor Doom removing Thanos' skeleton

The prospect of Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom emerging from a realm dominated by Thanos in Avengers: Doomsday also presents a tremendous opportunity to adapt the intricate relationships from Marvel Comics. Traditionally, Thanos and Doctor Doom are known for their conflicted interactions, which could be further explored in upcoming narratives, especially in the much-anticipated Avengers: Secret Wars.

In the comics, Doctor Doom’s ascendance to power culminated in a shocking moment where he removed Thanos’ skeleton, a scene that could translate powerfully into live action. Using the framework of the Secret Wars storyline, the MCU could delve into themes of revenge and control within this newly created multiverse, particularly as Doctor Doom confronts his history with Thanos.

Thus, as Avengers: Doomsday approaches, it invites comparisons to the animated series What If…?, potentially bridging narrative styles and characters in ways that challenge our expectations of heroism and villainy within the MCU. This inventive approach promises to unravel some of the darkest moments in Marvel’s cinematic history.

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