Marvel To Replace Robert Downey Jr. With A Younger Actor In 'Iron Man 4'?

Is Marvel Studios finally ready to let go of Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark / Iron Man? A new report suggests that the beloved actor may not be reprising his iconic role.

It has been previously reported that Robert Downey Jr. may be too old to play the genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist Tony Stark in "Iron Man 4." Fans wondered if RDJ will still have enough energy to play his iconic role when the time comes that the production for the fourth installment of the marvel film will finally start.

At the age of 51, Robert Downey Jr. is still very healthy and active, but since the filming for "Iron Man 4" is still unknown, his age is ticking and he might be too old to play a superhero. This concern is seemingly echoed by Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige. In an interview with Toronto Sun, he revealed that the actors who portrayed iconic roles may be be recast.

There is good news and bad news in Kevin Feige statement. The good news is that the Marvel Studios President mentioned that he will not be recasting anyone anytime soon so there's still hope for Robert Downey Jr. to play Tony Stark in "Iron Man 4." But the bad news is that just like the James Bond movies, the actors were replaced numerous times to find a better fit for the character. As long as RDJ can still do justice to his role, it's safe to say that he can still get to keep his red metal suit for now.

As for the "Iron Man 4" release date, it has been previously noted that the fourth installment is nowhere to be found in the Marvel Phase 3 lineup. There are three movies slated on 2020 but the studio opted to leave the titles unknown for now. Many believed that one of those three untitled Marvel Studios films may be "Iron Man 4."