Did Robert Downey Jr. Just Spark Buzz About a Surprise MCU Return in Avengers: Doomsday?
Robert Downey Jr. has been busy building excitement for Avengers: Doomsday, and now fans think he might have dropped a clue about a familiar face making a return. The talk started after he was spotted out in Chicago with his longtime Marvel co-star Gwyneth Paltrow.
Secret Chicago reported that the two shared a meal at TenGoku Aburiya, a Japanese restaurant known for attracting celebrities. Staff at the spot confirmed the pair enjoyed dishes like sushi, bento boxes, and gyoza during their visit.
"Robert Downey Jr. and Gwyneth Paltrow Spotted at One of Chicago’s Best Japanese Restaurants—Here’s What to Know" EXCUSE MEEEE pic.twitter.com/7jAhCVPsJU
— ⎊ Alice ⎊ (@Alyss_) September 6, 2025
The outing quickly set off rumors that Paltrow could reprise her role as Pepper Potts in the upcoming film. Marvel hasn’t confirmed her involvement, and it’s very possible the meeting was simply two friends catching up. Still, fans couldn’t help but speculate given the timing.
Earlier this year, Paltrow’s name was already connected to a possible MCU comeback. Insider account @MyTimeToShineH suggested in April that she had been in talks about returning, though no project was named. Around the same time, she also fielded fan questions about her Marvel future on Instagram. When asked directly if she was coming back, she responded but didn’t give a definite answer, according to Deadline.
Paltrow first stepped into the Marvel world back in 2008 with Iron Man. Over more than a decade, she appeared in several big titles including Iron Man 2, The Avengers, Spider-Man: Homecoming, Infinity War, and Endgame. Her most recent role as Pepper showed her mourning Tony Stark after his sacrifice in Avengers: Endgame.
Now with Downey Jr. taking on a new twist in Doomsday, appearing as Doctor Doom while still tied to Tony Stark, the idea of Pepper returning has captured fans’ imaginations. Nothing has been confirmed, but the buzz continues to grow as the film’s release gets closer.
Even if her return isn’t official yet, Paltrow showing up alongside RDJ has given Marvel fans plenty to talk about. Pepper was such a key part of Tony’s story that seeing her back, even briefly, would be a powerful moment. What do you think, should Gwyneth Paltrow return to the MCU in Avengers: Doomsday? Share your thoughts in the comments.