Jonathan Majors Replaced by Downey Jr. in MCU

Jonathan Majors has expressed his heartbreak over Marvel Studios' decision to replace him as the MCU's next major villain with Robert Downey Jr., who will portray Doctor Doom in the upcoming Avengers movies. Majors was initially set to play Kang the Conqueror, but was dropped after being convicted of assault and harassment in December 2023. Despite his disappointment, Majors acknowledged his admiration for the character of Doctor Doom and left open the possibility of returning as Kang if Marvel and fans desired it. He also commented on the perceived disparity in how Hollywood treats actors with troubled pasts, noting that Downey Jr. and Ezra Miller have continued to receive opportunities despite their legal issues. Marvel's pivot was announced at San Diego Comic-Con, where it was revealed that Avengers: The Kang Dynasty would be retitled Avengers: Doomsday.