Well, it's official: Tony Stark/Iron Man will be popping up in "Spider-Man: Homecoming," further cementing the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the crème de la crème of crossover opportunities. However, this isn't exactly new news, as Downey's involvement in the planned "Spider-Man" solo flick has been rumored for some time. Still, it's great to know that it is actually happening.
Downey helped kick off the MCU with 2008's "Iron Man," and he quickly became Marvel's biggest solo property. Following "Captain America: Civil War," Downey was only contracted to appear in two more Marvel movies, "Avengers: Infinity War- Part I" and "II." But including him in the "Spider-Man" standalone movie is a great way to help bolster a new potential franchise, especially after the mess that was "The Amazing Spider-Man" series.
It is unknown how large of a role Downey's Stark will have in "Spider-Man: Homecoming," but it was noted that he and actor Tom Holland had "great chemistry" together. Holland will make his MCU debut in "Civil War." The rest of the "Homecoming" cast, as of now, includes Marisa Tomei, Zendaya, Laura Harrier and Tony Revolori. Michael Keaton was rumored to be up for a villain role, though that no longer appears to be the case.
The writing for an Iron Man cameo or role was on the wall (crawler) in recent weeks. Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige mentioned that the MCU character would likely appear in "Homecoming," and RDJ himself even hinted at that possibility on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" Not to mention, Spider-Man has been revealed to be on Team Iron Man in "Civil War." It all makes sense.
However, what will Downey be up to in "Homecoming?" It's possible that his character will only be making a brief cameo appearance, ala Nick Fury in "Iron Man" or Cap and Falcon in "Ant-Man." Marvel loves themselves some cameos, but it seems more likely that Downey has a bigger role in the film, otherwise why sign on at all? Maybe Stark is providing Spidey with a tech upgrade or something, or maybe he's serving as a sort of superhero mentor to the teenager.
"Spider-Man: Homecoming" will hit theaters on July 7, 2017.
Follow Brandon Katz at @Great_Katzby
