“A Huge Opportunity”: Anthony Mackie Addresses Robert Downey Jr And Endgame Directors The Russo Brothers Returning To The MCU For Avengers: Doomsday | CPT PPP Coverage

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Captain America himself, Anthony Mackie, has weighed in on the upcoming return of Marvel Cinematic Universe superstar Robert Downey Jr. as well as directors Joe and Anthony Russo for Avengers: Doomsday. Downey, of course, was the first lead actor of the MCU and was the face of the franchise for over a decade as Iron Man/Tony Stark, before his character’s tragic sacrifice in Avengers: Endgame. In summer of 2024, it was announced that Downey would rejoin the MCU, but he would be stepping into a new role: Victor Von Doom/Doctor Doom.

In another game-changing twist, the Russo brothers, perhaps the most successful directors within the MCU, also agreed to come back to direct, after previously helming Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Captain America: Civil War, Avengers: Infinity War, and Avengers: Endgame. Their films were generally well-received by critics and audiences alike.

Interestingly, Mackie’s initial MCU casting was for Captain America: The Winter Soldier, during which his character, Sam Wilson, was introduced as a supporting character to Chris Evans’ Captain America. The latter designated Sam as his chosen replacement at the end of Avengers: Endgame. As such, Mackie told Empire that he is “really looking forward to getting back on set with the Russos,” who “understand this Marvel world in a very unique way.“

Mackie also discussed his take on Downey joining the cast of Avengers Doomsday. The actor praised his costar, saying that “just having him back adds so much.” The actor explained that seeing “what he brings to the table is just a huge opportunity.”

Mackie’s enthusiasm tracks, as he’s had significant experience working with both the Russos and Downey. Given that the brothers directed Mackie in most of his major appearances in the MCU, including his debut film, it makes sense for the star to be excited to work with them again. Likewise, Mackie’s time in the MCU has seen him as both an enemy and an ally to Downey’s Iron Man. Mackie and Downey teamed up in Avengers: Age of Ultron and the later installment, Avengers: Endgame, and they were at odds during Captain America: Civil War.

Mackie is right to be excited; the fans are too. The Russo Brothers directed some of the franchise’s best films, while Downey is a huge factor in the MCU’s success, as its most recognizable leading man.

However, Mackie has quipped that his excitement stems from being ready to fight his former costar: “Robert Downey Jr. has had his a**-kick coming for a long time, and I’m very proud to say he [is] going to get it!” Now, with the news that Chris Evans will also return for Avengers: Doomsday, the excitement that Mackie felt is again spreading through the MCU fandom, setting the film up to be a huge success if it sticks the landing.

Avengers: Doomsday is the fifth Avengers film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and will bring together heroes, new and old, to face off against Victor von Doom – played by the returning Robert DOwney Jr.. Avengers 5 will also mark the beginning of phase 6 of the MCU.

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