Marvel Studios made a significant impact at Comic-Con with a series of announcements that have thrilled fans. The biggest surprise came with the revelation that Robert Downey Jr. will return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), not as Iron Man, but as the infamous Doctor Doom. He will be working alongside the Russo Brothers, known for directing “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Avengers: Endgame.”
A Celebratory Start
The panel began on a high note with a choir dressed in Deadpool red and Wolverine yellow, performing Madonna’s “Like a Prayer,” a song featured in the marketing campaign and a key scene of the new “Deadpool & Wolverine” movie. This year’s Comic-Con was particularly special for Marvel, as director Shawn Levy’s “Deadpool & Wolverine” is currently enjoying a record-breaking weekend for an R-rated film. Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige proudly announced that the MCU has surpassed the $30 billion mark in box office revenue.
Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars
Marvel revealed that Robert Downey Jr. will portray Victor Von Doom, also known as Doctor Doom, in two upcoming films: “Avengers: Doomsday” (May 2026) and “Avengers: Secret Wars” (May 2027). The Russo Brothers will return to direct these films, bringing back the team that delivered some of the MCU’s most successful entries.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps
Anticipation was high for the new “Fantastic Four” movie, titled “The Fantastic Four: First Steps.” Director Matt Shakman announced that filming would begin next week and revealed a 1960s-style science film that teases the team’s origins. The cast, including Pedro Pascal (Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic), Vanessa Kirby (Sue Storm/The Invisible Woman), Joseph Quinn (Johnny Storm/The Human Torch), and Ebon Moss-Bachrach (Ben Grimm/The Thing), appeared on stage. Quinn emphasized the film’s focus on the family dynamic of the Fantastic Four.
Thunderbolts
David Harbour entertained the audience by appearing in full costume as Red Guardian. The film features a team of Marvel’s villains and anti-heroes, led by Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova. The cast also includes Sebastian Stan, Hannah John-Kamen, Wyatt Russell, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus. Director Jake Schreier presented the first footage of the film, which highlights Louis-Dreyfus’ character assembling the team. The film’s title features an asterisk, the significance of which remains a mystery.
Captain America: Brave New World
Although director Julius Onah was absent due to COVID-19, actor Giancarlo Esposito joined the panel to discuss his role as the villain Seth Voelker, also known as Sidewinder. The panel showcased footage from the film, which hints at a political thriller. Anthony Mackie returns as Sam Wilson, now the new Captain America, alongside Harrison Ford as President Thunderbolt Ross. The movie, which features Sam Wilson navigating his complex relationship with the President, will be released on February 14, 2025.
Looking Ahead
While Marvel’s Comic-Con panel has concluded, fans can look forward to more exciting announcements at the D23 Expo next month, where Marvel is expected to reveal details about its upcoming TV projects.
