Downey, Favreau team again for ‘Avengers’
“Iron Man” duo Robert Downey Jr. and Jon Favreau have confirmed that the duo will reunite for “The Avengers”.
Don Cheadle, whose deal to replace Terrence Howard in the “Iron Man” movies has been finalized, also has signed to perform in the action movie.
Downey has signed a four-picture deal with Marvel Studios, which will see him reprise the character of Tony Stark not only for “Iron Man 2” and “Iron Man 3,” but also for the “Avengers” movie. (The deal retroactively includes the first “Iron Man.”)
Favreau, who is directing “Iron Man 2,” will exec produce “Avengers.” Cheadle will play Jim Rhodes, Stark’s best friend, who becomes the suit-wearing hero “War Machine.”
Marvel’s current slate is designed to introduce superhero characters via individual movies that lead up to the characters teaming up for “Avengers,” which is set for a release in 2011.
Downey and Cheadle are the first stars to sign on for “Avengers,” whose team roster features such heroes as Iron Man, Captain American, Hulk, Wasp, Giant Man, Hawkeye and Thor.