Robert Downey Jr. gave a heartwarming pep talk to Dominique Thorne, the star of the new “Ironheart” series, over FaceTime on Tuesday. The video, posted online, shows Downey Jr.
congratulating Thorne on the premiere of her show. “It’s all been leading to this. Isn’t that exciting?” Downey Jr.
said, as Thorne screamed with excitement. “17 years from the birth of the [Iron Man franchise] to the premiere of ‘Ironheart.’ And we’re in this love together. So psyched.
I’ve grown so fond of you, it’s bananas.”
Thorne thanked Downey Jr. for the call and his support. While the two actors have not yet shared the screen in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Thorne is taking up the iron mantle left behind by Downey Jr.’s character, Tony Stark, after his death in “Avengers: Endgame.”
Thorne first appeared as Riri Williams, also known as Ironheart, in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.” The new Disney+ series follows Riri’s return to her hometown of Chicago, where she becomes entangled with a criminal crew led by Parker Robbins, aka the Hood.
Downey Jr. pep talk’s heartfelt moment
“Ironheart” premieres with its first three episodes on Tuesday, with the remaining three episodes set to release the following Tuesday, July 1. Downey Jr.’s supportive message comes amid a review-bombing campaign targeting the series ahead of its release.
Despite critics giving the show mixed to poor reviews, users on Rotten Tomatoes who have not seen the series have been leaving negative ratings, a form of harassment often aimed at works centered on women and people of color. The video call between Downey Jr. and Thorne also touched on a personal note, with Downey Jr.
mentioning that June 24 is his late father’s birthday. Thorne responded, “It’s dad’s birthday. Happy birthday.”
Downey Jr.’s encouragement serves as a touching act of solidarity from one of the most iconic and beloved actors in the MCU.
His 11-year run as Tony Stark has made him a central figure in the franchise, and his support for Thorne and “Ironheart” sends a strong message of unity. As the series continues, fans can expect more exciting developments, including the introduction of Ezekiel Stane, the son of Obadiah Stane from the original “Iron Man” film. Alden Ehrenreich, who portrays Ezekiel, recently shared his enthusiasm for the role and the character’s connection to Tony Stark’s legacy in an exclusive interview.
With the first three episodes of “Ironheart” now available on Disney+, viewers can look forward to the remaining episodes and the continued expansion of the MCU’s rich tapestry of characters and stories.
