Robert Downey Jr’s MCU return received mixed comments from Marvel fans. Yes, no doubt, it was an attempt to bring Marvel back on track and who more than Downey Jr could be the best option in this attempt. But at what cost? Is it taking a lot from Marvel? How much Downey Jr and the Russo brothers are getting for this return?
Massive Paycheck For Robert Downey Jr. And Russo Brothers For Mega Avengers Projects
Robert Downey Jr at SDCC. Image Credit: Marvel Entertainment/YT
A recent Variety report has disclosed the substantial earnings of Robert Downey Jr. and the Russo Brothers for their return to the MCU.
The Russo Brothers have secured an impressive $80 million for directing the next two Avengers movies. Although their agreement with Marvel Studios excludes back-end compensation, it includes performance bonuses that activate when the box office hits $750 million and $1 billion. This marks Marvel’s first collaboration with an external production company, specifically the Russo Brothers’ AGBO banner.
Robert Downey Jr., the Oscar-winning actor, will receive “significantly more” than the Russo Brothers, with earnings surpassing $80 million. In addition to his substantial salary, his benefits include private jet travel, dedicated security, and an entire “trailer encampment.”
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A source mentioned to Variety that since the MCU’s launch in 2008 with Iron Man, Downey Jr. has been its highest-paid member. To date, he has earned between $500 million and $600 million from his roles in the three Iron Man films, four Avengers movies, Captain America: Civil War, and cameos in The Incredible Hulk and Spider-Man: Homecoming.
Can Robert Downey Jr Change The MCU Once Again Like He Did With Iron Man?
Robert Downey Jr. Image Credit: Marvel Studios
The idea of Robert Downey Jr. returning to the MCU has sparked various interpretations. One perspective views it as a homecoming, considering the speculation surrounding his potential return since his departure in 2019.
During a conversation with Jodie Foster for Actors on Actors, Downey remarked that Tony Stark is “just crazily in my DNA. Probably the most like-me character I’ve ever played, even though he’s way cooler than I am.” Although Downey isn’t reprising Stark, the connections between characters in the multiverse franchise allow for deep lore exploration by fans. The allure of returning to a familiar, comfortable place where one felt at their coolest is understandable.
However, Downey’s return also serves a strategic purpose for Marvel. The studio faced a significant setback when Jonathan Majors, originally slated to be the central antagonist in the upcoming Avengers sequels, was dismissed following legal troubles. Moreover, the recent box office triumph of Deadpool & Wolverine has highlighted the challenges Marvel has faced in maintaining audience enthusiasm for its more traditional superhero formula. Downey’s association with the studio’s earlier, highly successful phase offers a potential remedy to these issues.
Downey’s return to Marvel might lead to something beyond the familiar Tony Stark persona. While some might view this as a step back when Doomsday releases, it could also infuse fresh energy into the franchise. Having revitalized his career twice— once in 2008 alongside Marvel’s rise, and again in the 2020s on his terms— Downey might still have some magic left to offer.
Deadpool & Wolverine is showing in theaters.
