After a year of facing challenges, Marvel has decided to reunite with the individuals who once helped elevate the franchise to great success. This decision includes bringing back the iconic star Robert Downey Jr. along with the Russo brothers, who directed significant milestones like Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame in this superhero cinematic universe.
According to Variety, the return of these key characters has necessitated Marvel to pay a substantial fee. Reports suggest that the studio has allocated $80 million to the Russo brothers to direct two upcoming Avengers films: Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars. Additionally, the Russo brothers have set several lucrative conditions, such as a revenue share that exceeds $750 million and $1 billion for these films. Concurrently, Anthony and Joe Russo will produce two new Avengers projects through their own company, AGBO. This marks a significant shift for Marvel, as the brothers had previously only collaborated with internal production teams.
Additionally, Marvel reportedly has to offer a significant amount exceeding $80 million specifically for Robert Downey Jr. to reprise his role in both Avengers projects as the character Doctor Doom. Kevin Feige, the studio head, is deeply involved in this idea and has made considerable efforts to realize it. Robert Downey Jr. himself has stated that he would only return if the Russo brothers were also onboard.
Alongside the hefty compensation, Robert Downey Jr.’s contract includes numerous unique perks, such as private jet travel, dedicated security teams, and exclusive trailers on set to ensure privacy during filming.
Since entering the Marvel Cinematic Universe in 2008 as Iron Man, Robert Downey Jr. has emerged as one of the highest-paid actors in the franchise. He has earned approximately $500 million to $600 million for his lead roles in four Avengers films, three Iron Man installments, and numerous cameo appearances in other blockbuster hits from Marvel.
