Major casting rumors have erupted online suggesting that Tom Cruise is set to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe in a key role. If the latest insider claims are to be believed, the action star may finally play an iconic Marvel superhero across two highly anticipated upcoming Avengers films. While nothing has been confirmed as of yet, excited fans have been discussing what this possible addition could mean for the future of the MCU.
The rumors first began swirling after a Marvel insider, @MCUFilmNews, revealed that pre-production on ‘Avengers: Doomsday‘ would be commencing in November. He further stated that Cruise has finalized a deal to portray an Iron Man variant in both ‘Avengers: Doomsday‘ and its follow-up film ‘Avengers: Secret Wars‘. This version of Tony Stark would go head-to-head with Robert Downey Jr’s previously announced Doctor Doom character.
Tom Cruise Might Face Off Against Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom
If the casting is real, it would be a notable full-circle moment as Cruise was originally considered for the role of Tony Stark before RDJ was cast. Pitting the two Hollywood stars against each other in an alternate-reality showdown would make for great fan service.
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Downey Jr is only expected to appear in these two Multiverse Saga finale films, allowing Cruise’s variant to potentially carry the Iron Man mantle going forward. This setup could lay the foundations for the veteran actor to take part in future team-up movies as the franchise evolves.
Pre-Production Slated To Begin This Fall
The Cruise reports have added fuel to speculations dating back years about his involvement in the MCU. He was linked to a Doctor Strange cameo after meetings with Marvel executives in 2020.
Fans eagerly dissected his role in ‘Top Gun: Maverick‘ for clues, wondering if it set the stage for an Iron Man connection. If true, casting the Mission Impossible star would generate massive hype leading into the Avengers double bill as one of the most high-profile star additions yet. Though Marvel is keeping shut, the growing rumors may indicate more solid reports are yet to emerge.
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Providing further credence to the leaks, it’s been reiterated that the Russo Brothers are spearheading Doomsday pre-production beginning this November. This lines up with previous statements about the films accelerating toward 2026/27 releases to wrap Multiverse Saga.
Should Cruise sign on, he may join other big names like Patrick Stewart and Hugh Jackman who are rumored to reprise key roles. Only an official announcement will confirm if shell-shocked fans will truly see one of Hollywood’s biggest names suit up alongside the MCU’s mightiest heroes at last.