The video sees Downey in a suit showing off his suave and sophisticated side as he effortlessly delivered his lines as Tony Stark for a screen-test.
In the now-viral audition clip, which has surpassed 21,000 views, Downey Jr. effortlessly transitions between Tony Stark’s playboy charm and the more serious, heroic side of Iron Man. The footage includes a scene where he interacts with a journalist at a Stark launch party, as well as an emotional exchange with the character James Rhodes, who would later become War Machine. Downey’s charisma and natural fit for the role are evident, as even those present at the audition were unable to contain their laughter and smiles.
While Downey has become synonymous with the iconic Marvel superhero, several other actors were reportedly being considered for the role. The actor’s troubled past and struggles with substance abuse even made the studio hesitant to hire him.
According to reports, studio bosses were keen to hire Tom Cruise for the role as he was a more popular actor at the time. Fortunately, Marvel reconsidered and ultimately made the decision to cast RDJ, a choice that would go on to set the MCU on a path to unprecedented success.
Despite not being the first choice for the role RDJ went on to portray Iron Man in nine MCU films, culminating with ‘Avengers: Endgame’ in 2019. As a leading actor, Downey’s films have grossed over $14 billion worldwide, largely due to his work in the MCU.
The actor is now set to make a return to the MCU’s multiverse saga as Doctor Doom in the upcoming Russo Brothers‘ films ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ and ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’. According to industry buzz, Downey stands to earn an estimated $200 million for his return, a testament to his enduring appeal and the impact of his portrayal of Iron Man on the superhero genre.
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