As Marvel's "Captain America: Civil War" draws ever closer, the Marvel Cinematic Universe also gets nearer and nearer to the end of their Phase 3 slate of films, which will culminate in the massive two-part "Avengers: Infinity War" series. Who would have thought that all of this was possible back in 2008 when Robert Downey Jr. jumpstarted the MCU with "Iron Man?"
Though Downey Jr. has become Marvel's biggest and highest-paid star, his solo franchise had seemingly come to an end with "Iron Man 3." The actor's interest seemed to be geared more towards high-profile team-up adventures such as "Civil War," "Infinity War" and next year's "Spider-Man: Homecoming." However, RDJ may be changing his mind.
When asked how much longer he wants to play Tony Stark, Downey surprised fans by saying:
"I feel like I could do one more."
That doesn't mean that Marvel is suddenly going to rearrange its meticulously planned schedule, nor does it mean that Downey Jr. is ready to sign up for an "Iron Man 4" right away. However, it is a positive step in the right direction for a franchise that seemed to be all but concluded.
When "Avengers: Infinity War" wraps up in 2019, Downey Jr. will have been playing the role of Stark/Iron Man for 11 years, appearing in 10 films if you count his cameo in "The Incredible Hulk." The only other actor to boast that kind of longevity in a superhero role is Hugh Jackman, who will have taken on the role of Wolverine for 17 years when all is said and done.
We know that Marvel is planning to kick off a handful of new franchises in the coming months and years with "Doctor Strange," "Black Panther," "Spider-Man," etc. While these properties will largely be counted upon to carry the weight post-"Avengers," it's possible that the studio squeezes in one more "Iron Man" adventure for continuity and box office purposes.
What do you think, Marvel fans? Do you want to see Robert Downey Jr. in another "Iron Man" film? Let us know in the comments below.
Follow Brandon Katz at @Great_Katzby
