Directors Anthony and Joe Russo have described being struck by Robert Downey Jr.'s voice for Doctor Doom, the villain he is set to portray in the upcoming Marvel film Avengers: Doomsday. Speaking to People at Comic-Con 2026, the pair said Downey Jr. had already convinced them he was right for the role through early conversations, but it was hearing the distinct voice he developed for the character that sealed their decision. The anecdote offers a small but telling insight into the anticipation surrounding the film, one of Marvel's most high-profile releases in years.

According to Anthony Russo, Downey Jr. surprised them by breaking into the voice unprompted during a discussion about the character's details, particularly given its importance under Doom's mask. Joe Russo said the moment gave him "chills" and drew comparisons to Downey Jr.'s memorable "I Am Iron Man" scene from Avengers: Endgame (2019). Avengers: Doomsday features an extensive cast spanning the Avengers, X-Men, Thunderbolts and Fantastic Four, all uniting against Doctor Doom, and is scheduled for release in cinemas on 18 December.