Don Cheadle reacts to Robert Downey Jr.'s surprising return to the MCU as Doctor Doom

During an interview at the Toronto International Film Festival, Don Cheadle expressed his surprise over Robert Downey Jr.’s return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as Doctor Doom. Speaking with Collider's Steve Weintraub while promoting his latest film Unstoppable, Cheadle was asked about Downey’s casting as the iconic villain, Victor von Doom, in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars. Cheadle’s initial reaction was one of shock, stating, "I was like, 'What the f*ck?'"

The news of Downey’s role was announced at Marvel’s Hall H panel at San Diego Comic-Con 2024. Downey, who previously portrayed Iron Man in nine MCU films, teased fans by saying, "New mask, same task. What'd I tell you, I like playing complicated characters."

Cheadle further commented on the fluid nature of the MCU, noting, "They're rewriting, they're reworking, and so I honestly can't even tease anything." He also joked about the secrecy surrounding Marvel projects, adding, "You know more than I know. You're giving me information."

While Cheadle refrained from confirming his own involvement in Secret Wars, his reaction mirrors the excitement and curiosity felt by many fans.