Expect to See RDJ’s Doctor Doom Before ‘Doomsday’ – Here’s Where He Could Show Up

This year’s SDCC was full of surprises, including sneak peeks at the upcoming Thunderbolts* movie and the highly anticipated Fantastic Four: First Steps. However, the biggest shock of the night was the announcement that Robert Downey Jr. is returning to the MCU as Victor Von Doom, one of Marvel’s most iconic villains.

We’ve already explored in detail the potential storylines the studio might adapt, from Demon in an Armor to Infamous Iron Man. However, the leading contender so far seems to be the Time Runs Out storyline.

We recently discussed Doctor Doom’s rumored plans for the MCU and how they might tie into Robert Downey Jr.’s comment when his role was announced: “same task, different mask.” This suggests Doom might try to “save” reality, but his efforts could disastrously backfire, largely due to his own ego.

Fans are concerned that Doctor Doom won’t get enough buildup, as the MCU has so far focused primarily on Kang the Conqueror, with no mention of Doom or his role in the Multiverse Saga. This makes it crucial for Doom to appear in at least one project before Doomsday premieres, which is set for release on May 1, 2026—a date that’s quickly approaching.

Given the deep connection between Doom’s story and Reed Richards’, it seems likely that Doom’s first on-screen appearance will be in Fantastic Four: First Steps.

Before it was revealed that Jonathan Majors would be replaced as the main villain, there were rumors that Doom would be included in the Fantastic Four movie, but not as the primary antagonist. His role was expected to be brief, more like a cameo. Considering recent developments, this rumor seems increasingly plausible.

Fantastic Four: First Steps is set in an alternate reality, so it’s likely that Doctor Doom will enter the MCU from that reality. This would explain his absence in the earlier phases of the MCU.

Several online sources reported having inside information about Robert Downey Jr.’s return but were reluctant to share it before Marvel’s official announcement. After the SDCC panel, Collider interviewed Fantastic Four director Matt Shakman and asked if he was aware of Downey’s return before the Hall H presentation.

It’s incredible exciting. I’m a huge fan of Robert Downey Jr., of course, and there’s no one bigger. And I have heard about it for a while, and I had to keep that secret for a while. But it’s really exciting! I kept it under wraps.

This pretty much indirectly confirms that Shankman knew about it “for a while” beacuse the character was always planned to be included in the upcoming movie. What do you think? Let us know in the comments below!