Robert Downey Jr. recently shared high praise for Pedro Pascal in a Vanity Fair cover story. The two actors are working together on the upcoming Marvel film “Avengers: Doomsday,” set for release in December 2026. Filming is underway at Pinewood Studios in the UK.
Downey, who plays the villain Doctor Doom, hosted “homework days” at his home for the cast to workshop scenes. Pascal, reprising his role as Reed Richards from “Fantastic Four,” joined these sessions but kept details under wraps, only saying it was a “very good question” when asked about them.
“Pascal’s slow trajectory to becoming a household name who is on a wildly hot streak kind of reaffirms my faith in our industry,” Downey told Vanity Fair. Pascal, who makes his Marvel debut in July’s “Fantastic Four: First Steps,” appreciated Downey’s support.
He called Downey “immediately generous and inviting,” especially during tough times when fans criticized his casting as Reed Richards for being “too old” or “not right.” Pascal also received kind words from “Fantastic Four” co-star Vanessa Kirby, who said he shows himself bravely and builds trust.
Additionally, Bella Ramsey, Pascal’s co-star from HBO’s “The Last of Us,” expressed concern over the “internet’s daddy” label often tied to Pascal. Ramsey wants to protect him from being reduced to that joke, saying, “You’re so much more.”
“Avengers: Doomsday” will see Downey and Pascal face off, marking a dramatic shift for Downey from his iconic Iron Man role to a villain in the Marvel universe.
