If we haven't had more Iron Man in the MCU, we have to blame Robert Downey Jr.

Robert Downey Jr. has been a central figure in the success of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) since the release of Iron Man in 2008, transforming an initially unpopular character into the franchise’s icon. His portrayal of Tony Stark not only cemented his career but also helped elevate Marvel to a dominant status in Hollywood, generating billions at the box office and extensive merchandising. However, the relationship between Downey Jr. and Marvel has not been without tensions.

Robert Downey Jr.: an actor with demands

As the actor’s popularity grew, so did his salary demands and his influence over the company’s creative decisions. Various sources indicate that his behavior began to complicate the development of new installments, including a fourth solo Iron Man movie, as the rising popularity of other superheroes led Marvel to rethink its narrative strategy.

Particularly, his participation in Captain America: Civil War became a critical point. The inclusion of Iron Man as a rival to Captain America generated internal tensions, almost putting the project at risk. The intervention of Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios, was key to consolidating the direction of the film, which set a precedent in the collaboration between Marvel and Disney.

The death of Iron Man in Avengers: Endgame not only marked an emotional closure for fans but also freed the studio from the creative challenges associated with Downey Jr.’s character. Now, Marvel is in a phase of exploring new narratives and characters, demonstrating that, while Iron Man will always hold a special place in the hearts of followers, there is a vast universe to discover beyond Stark.

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