Robert Downey Jr. has praised Pedro Pascal’s rise to stardom, saying it “reaffirms my faith in our industry.” The two actors are working together on the upcoming Marvel film “Avengers: Doomsday,” currently being filmed in the U.K.
Downey, who plays the villain Doctor Doom in the movie, has been hosting “homework days” at his home for the cast to workshop scenes. Pascal, while keeping the details private, responded to questions about these sessions with a simple “Very good question.”
In “Avengers: Doomsday,” Pascal reprises his role as Reed Richards from the “Fantastic Four” movie, which introduces him to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The film is set for release in December 2026. Speaking to Vanity Fair, Downey expressed his admiration for Pascal’s journey to becoming a household name.
Pascal joins the Marvel Cinematic Universe
Pascal, in turn, praised Downey’s generosity and support, especially during moments when some fans initially resisted his casting as Reed Richards. Vanessa Kirby, Pascal’s “Fantastic Four” co-star, described his openness and authenticity, while Bella Ramsey, who worked with him on “The Last of Us,” expressed concern over the “daddy” moniker Pascal has inherited on social media. Pascal also revealed that Marvel asked him to tone down his mid-Atlantic 1960s accent for his portrayal of Mister Fantastic in “The Fantastic Four: First Steps.” This adjustment aligns his character with the contemporary Avengers he will appear alongside in future films.
“The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” set in a retro-futuristic 1960s world, introduces Marvel’s First Family as they face the threat of Galactus and his Herald, Silver Surfer. The film, directed by Matt Shakman, is slated for release on July 25, 2025.
