In a surprising revelation, renowned directors Joe and Anthony Russo, known for delivering some of Marvel’s most celebrated films, initially declined the opportunity to reunite with Robert Downey Jr. for the upcoming projects “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Secret Wars.”

During an interview with Omelete, Joe Russo disclosed that the idea to bring Downey back into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), this time as Doctor Doom, was originally proposed by Marvel Studios’ CEO, Kevin Feige. Downey, who had been the franchise's face for more than a decade as Tony Stark/Iron Man, was keen to return, but it was not as straightforward as one might think.

Joe Russo explained, “That was Kevin [Feige]. Interestingly enough about that, that conversation was had a while ago.” Despite the initial enthusiasm from Feige, the Russo Brothers found themselves hesitant. Even the iconic Iron Man could not convince the duo to jump at the directing opportunity without a solid narrative in place.

“We just didn’t have a story. We didn’t have a way in,” shared Russo, referring to their initial resistance. “Then Robert tried to talk us into doing ‘Doomsday’ and ‘Secret Wars,’ and we said ‘no.’”

It wasn't until their close collaborator and screenwriter, Stephen McFeely, proposed his own story ideas that the Russo Brothers began to change their stance. Joe noted, “One day, Stephen McFeely, one of our chief collaborators, said, ‘I have an idea.’ We went, ‘That’s the story!’ That story has to be told; it’s a really powerful story!”

This breakthrough has since ignited excitement among fans for the potential that lies within these new narratives. The Russo Brothers have a proven track record, having directed immensely successful titles, including “Avengers: Endgame,” “Avengers: Infinity War,” “Captain America: The Winter Soldier,” and “Captain America: Civil War.”

As anticipation builds, Marvel enthusiasts are eager to see how the Russo Brothers will reimagine these classic characters and stories, especially with such a powerful return for one of their most beloved stars, Robert Downey Jr. The stage is set for an epic showdown that might redefine the franchise once more! Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops!