Robert Downey Jr.’s Shocking Surprise Apperance Leaves Newest Marvel Stars Speechless!
On a recent episode of Good Morning America, actors Dominique Thorne and Anthony Ramos, stars of the upcoming Marvel series Ironheart, were stunned by a heartfelt video message from none other than Robert Downey Jr., the iconic Iron Man.
The surprise came mid-interview as the two discussed their roles in the new Disney+ show, set to debut on June 24, 2025.
Host Robin Roberts paused the conversation to share the pre-recorded clip. In it, Downey Jr. praised Thorne for her portrayal of Riri Williams, the brilliant MIT student who builds her own Iron Man-inspired suit. “I’m thrilled to see you bring Riri to life,” he said with a smile.
He then playfully addressed Ramos, who plays Parker Robbins, aka the Hood, joking, “Is the Hood’s suit green? I hope you’re not taking my spot as Doctor Doom!” Downey Jr. ended his message with a hand-formed heart, saying, “Iron Man loves Ironheart.”
Robert Downey Jr. has shared a new video message in support of #Ironheart star Dominique Thorne:
— MCU – The Direct (@MCU_Direct) June 17, 2025
"Iron Man loves Ironheart." pic.twitter.com/cD5BcCz3Hi
Thorne, visibly touched, mirrored the heart gesture and replied, “Ironheart loves Iron Man too.” She shared how much Downey Jr.’s encouragement has meant, noting that he reached out to her after filming wrapped in Chicago.
Thorne also revealed her family’s deep connection to Marvel, recalling how she and her younger brother dressed as Iron Girl and Iron Man for Halloween years ago, inspired by the 2008 Iron Man film that kicked off the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Ironheart follows Riri Williams, first seen in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, as she returns to Chicago and navigates her dual life as a young inventor and armored hero. Ramos’ character, the Hood, adds a mysterious edge to the story.
The series, directed by Sam Bailey and Angela Barnes with Chinaka Hodge as head writer, features a talented cast including Lyric Ross, Alden Ehrenreich, Regan Aliyah, Manny Montana, Matthew Elam, and Anji White. Produced by Ryan Coogler, Ironheart is a six-episode series that will wrap up Marvel’s Phase Five.
Production began in Atlanta in June 2022, shifted to Chicago in October, and concluded in November. The show’s first three episodes will drop on Disney+ on June 24, 2025.
My Take: Robert Downey Jr.’s surprise message is a reminder of how tightly knit the Marvel family is, even as new heroes like Riri Williams take the stage. His support for Thorne and Ramos shows the respect and camaraderie that keep the MCU thriving. It’s exciting to see Ironheart carry forward the legacy of innovation and heart that Downey Jr.’s Iron Man started. What do you think about this passing of the torch? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Have something to add? Let us know in the comments below!