At this year’s San Diego Comic-Con, it was announced that famed actor Robert Downey Jr. (RDJ) would be rejoining the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). However, instead of reclaiming his prior role as Iron Man, he would be taking on the role of Marvel’s Dr. Doom. The announcement has come with some controversy on whether one of, if not the biggest star of the MCU, is the right choice for another Marvel Comics icons’ film adaptation.
Although Dr. Doom has been adapted into live-action films previously, all have been seen negatively by audiences and critics alike. Many Marvel enthusiasts are concerned that the MCU’s approach to Dr. Doom’s character will lack diversity. In Marvel Cannon, Victor Von Doom is ethnically from the fictional Slavic nation of “Latveria,” located in Eastern Europe, bordering both Serbia and Romania. Thus, some individuals are concerned that RDJ would misrepresent the character of Dr. Doom.
Dr. Doom is rumored to make a minor appearance in 2025’s Fantastic Four: First Steps. However, RDJ’s character won’t be fully explored until Doom’s appearance in Avengers Doomsday. Many are concerned about the quality of Dr. Doom’s appearance as the main villain of the MCU. Many view the decision as rushed and not planned. This is partially true, as the original goal was to have American actor Jonathan Majors cast as “Kang the Conqueror”. This, however did not pan out well, as in light of recent controversies involving the actor, he was let go from his position.