It has been over five years since Tony Stark, portrayed by Robert Downey Jr., made the ultimate sacrifice in Avengers: Endgame. Downey’s portrayal of the billionaire playboy-turned-hero played a crucial role in rebuilding his career, following a period of personal struggles. Now, as he prepares to re-enter the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday, an old audition clip of Downey trying out for the role of Iron Man has resurfaced, captivating fans and reigniting admiration for his performance.
The Audition That Launched a Legacy
In the recently surfaced clip, Robert Downey Jr. is seen effortlessly delivering his lines, capturing the essence of Tony Stark with precision and charisma. The video highlights his smooth transition from Stark’s playboy charm to a more serious, grounded demeanor, showcasing the depth he brought to the character. The clip also features an emotional exchange between Downey and another actor, who stands in for Terrence Howard’s James Rhodes, further emphasizing the chemistry Downey would later share with his co-stars.
Robert Downey Jr Audition For Iron Man pic.twitter.com/mSo2RPojvr
— Ken Rutkowski (@kenradio) August 14, 2024
Fans were quick to react to the video, with many expressing their awe at Downey’s performance. One fan commented, “Damn good! This should be included in the bonus features of a special edition Blu-ray, DVD, or digital re-release of Iron Man. Can’t imagine anyone else other than RDJ as Tony Stark. Simply magnificent!” Another fan added, “Incredibly impressive. As a potential actor, I’ve learned a ton of pointers from this audition by RDJ. I’ve always looked up to learn from him.”
Robert Downey Jr Audition For Iron Man pic.twitter.com/mSo2RPojvr
— Ken Rutkowski (@kenradio) August 14, 2024
Incredibly impressive, as a potential actor to be, I’ve learned a tone of pointers from this audition by RDj. I’ve always looked up to learn from him.
— bigmoustea (@Bigmoustea) August 30, 2024
Downey Wasn’t the First Choice
Despite his now-iconic portrayal, Robert Downey Jr. wasn’t initially the top pick for the role of Iron Man. Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige once revealed that the first offer went to British actor Clive Owen. “When we were casting the role of Iron Man, we looked at many different actors. We had to find the perfect mix of heart, strength, and charisma,” Feige said at an event. “We pinpointed the right guy and extended an offer to our top choice – an actor who checked all of those boxes and who we were confident would be a huge hit. And his name, of course, was Clive Owen. He passed. He was not interested.”
Downey’s Return to the MCU
As fans continue to celebrate Downey’s original audition, they also eagerly anticipate his return to the MCU. However, this time, Downey will be stepping into a new role, taking on the character of Victor von Doom, also known as Dr. Doom, in the next Avengers film. This villainous turn marks a new chapter for the actor within the superhero universe, offering fans a chance to see Downey in a different light, even as they cherish his legacy as Tony Stark.
Robert Downey Jr.’s return to the MCU, coupled with the resurfaced audition clip, has only solidified his place in fans’ hearts as the definitive Iron Man, a role that continues to define his illustrious career.