Robert Downey Jr. Traded Iron Man for Doctor Doom — For an Even Bigger Payday

Robert Downey Jr. is back in the Marvel world, but this time he’s not Iron Man. He’s taking on the role of one of Marvel’s most famous villains, Doctor Doom, in Avengers: Doomsday. And Marvel is paying him big for it.

People close to the deal say Downey will get $95 million for playing Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars.

This comes after years of making huge money as Iron Man. Over four Avengers movies, three Iron Man films, and cameos in The Incredible Hulk, Captain America: Civil War, and Spider-Man: Homecoming, he’s already earned somewhere between $500 million and $600 million.

The talks for his return didn’t just happen recently. Variety says Downey began negotiating at least a year ago.

According to a source involved in the dealmaking, there was one big demand: “He wanted the Russo brothers helming the movie, and that’s the only way he would have it.”

Anthony and Joe Russo, who directed Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, are back to lead both upcoming Avengers films. Marvel is paying the brothers $80 million to direct Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars.

Variety reports that they can earn extra bonuses if the box office hits $750 million or $1 billion. They’ll also produce the movies through their company AGBO, which is unusual for Marvel since they usually keep production in-house.

Downey’s deal is more than just money. Sources say it includes luxury perks like private jet travel, personal security, and a large trailer setup while filming.

Yes, $95 million is a lot. But Downey has already proved that he’s worth it. Marvel knows he’s helped their biggest movies break records, and they’re betting he can do it again, even if this time, he’s the bad guy.

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