The Marvel Cinematic Universe has never shied away from surprises. However, a few announcements have shocked the fandom like the reveal of Robert Downey Jr.’s return, not as Iron Man, but as the infamous Doctor Doom in ‘Avengers: Doomsday’.
As fans still try to wrap their heads around this other MCU stars were also shocked. Whether it was Benedict Cumberbatch or Tom Hiddleston, they all expressed shock and intrigue. Now, our beloved Captain America Chris Evans has spoken about the ordeal.
“Like Cheese And The Crust”: Chris Evans On Robert Downey Jr. Becoming Doctor Doom
In a recent interview with ScreenRant, Chris Evans opened up about his honest response to Downey Jr.’s unexpected role swap. Evans, promoting his new film ‘Materialists’ alongside Dakota Johnson, was asked about Downey Jr.’s casting as Victor von Doom. It was clear that even for a veteran Avenger like Evans, the news was jarring at first.
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“When I first heard it, I was like, ‘Huh?’” Evans admitted. “But it’s almost like cheese and the crust. You’re like, ‘There’s nothing more we can do with this pizza,’ and then you’re like, ‘Oh damn… What if we did this?’” Downey Jr.’s portrayal of Tony Stark/Iron Man helped launch the MCU and bowed out emotionally during ‘Avengers: Endgame’.
To bring him back as one of Marvel’s greatest antagonists is the kind of daring only the MCU could attempt. Johnson was also baffled. “He’s a villain now? You can do that? You can just choose?” It was the kind of reaction that mirrors how fans around the world responded when Downey Jr. revealed himself as Doom. It’s a surreal full-circle moment not just for the fans, but for Evans too.
After all, before becoming Captain America, he portrayed Johnny Storm in Fox’s Fantastic Four films, where he went head-to-head with Julian McMahon’s version of Doctor Doom. Seeing Downey take on that same mantle is, as Evans said, “incredible.” However, it is undoubtedly strange for someone so close to the legacy of both characters.
“You Feel Like You Weren’t Invited To The Party”: Chris Evans On ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ Absence
While Downey Jr. gears up to redefine Doctor Doom, Evans remains on the sidelines of ‘Avengers: Doomsday.’ When asked about his involvement, he offered a candid and emotional response. “It’s sad to be away,” Evans said. “It’s sad to not be back with the band, but I’m sure they’re doing something incredible. And I’m sure it’s going to be that much harder when it comes out and you feel like you weren’t invited to the party.”
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The actor had previously confessed that he initially turned down the role of Captain America multiple times out of fear and uncertainty. He revealed that Downey Jr. was the one who convinced him to join the Marvel juggernaut. “I didn’t want to do it, I said no a few times,” he recalled. “I was scared, I was intimidated, I was kind of thinking about leaving acting in general.”
Downey’s mentorship and encouragement changed the trajectory of Evans’ career. This led to his legendary performance as Steve Rogers over nearly a decade. As for whether Evans could make a surprise return in ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ or ‘Secret Wars’, he plays it coy. Though he continues to state he’s not part of the upcoming movies, the multiverse has proven to be a convenient narrative device for unexpected returns. Whether he shows up or not, fans will undoubtedly feel his absence.
