While the rest of the world was completely in the dark, Tom Holland experienced the shock of a lifetime. In a recent interview, he shared how he felt after learning that his on-screen mentor, Robert Downey Jr., was returning to the Marvel franchise. The massive twist? He won’t be reprising his role as Tony Stark/Iron Man.
While speculation was circulating online, the Spider-Man actor learned of the casting decision during a highly classified phone call from Downey himself. How do you think the young hero reacted after he learned his co-star was making a villainous turn? He did exactly what you’d expect.
Tom Holland Had To Tell Zendaya Right Away
Holland is finally opening up about Robert Downey Jr.’s upcoming return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Doctor Doom. The actor was among the first to learn about the franchise’s most surprising casting, especially given the ending of ‘Avengers: Endgame.’
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While most Marvel stars learned about Robert’s return through official channels, Tom heard the news directly from his longtime partner. It was hard for him to believe that Downey Jr. would now take on one of Marvel’s legendary villains, Doctor Doom, after portraying Iron Man for years.
While obviously shocked and excited, Holland couldn’t help but break the news to his longtime partner and co-star, Zendaya, right away. “I think I hung up the phone and was like, ‘Downey’s coming back,’” he revealed in an interview with Cinemanía.
Tony Stark’s Significant Role In Peter Parker’s Journey
The news is significant for Holland because of his close connection with Downey Jr., both on-screen and off-screen. In Marvel movies, Downey’s Tony Stark guides Peter Parker, helping shape him into the hero he eventually becomes.
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Now, Marvel is flipping that dynamic on its head by turning Downey’s new character, Doctor Doom, into a major threat, setting up one of the most intriguing storylines in the upcoming Avengers films. It’s hard to disagree that this stands as one of the biggest casting decisions of his career.
Holland admitted that he doesn’t know the details of the villain’s storyline. “I have a reputation for spoiling certain things, and I think the studios are keeping me from the juicy details, but when I do get to grace that set, I’m so curious, ‘What does that mean for Peter and how does that work?’ I’m very excited about whatever it is.”
It’s an especially intriguing development because the man who once served as Peter’s mentor could now become one of his most formidable adversaries. This dramatic reversal of their relationship could create one of the most interesting dynamics the MCU has explored in years. It will give fans even more reason to look forward to the future Spider-Man and Avengers movies.
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