Robert Downey Jr. Downeyland Explained By Simu Liu

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Robert Downey Jr. is clearly the biggest star in the upcoming Marvel crossover event, and he’s well aware of his status. Now, one of his fellow actors is talking about what it’s like working with Downey Jr. and his famously playful behavior on set.

I was so fascinated to hear Simu Liu talk about his experience on the set of Avengers: Doomsday! He mentioned, while promoting his series The Copenhagen Test with Collider, that it was his first time working on such a large-scale Marvel production. As someone relatively new to the MCU, he was completely blown away by how the actor playing Doctor Doom was treated. Apparently, they built an entire section of the set – he called it ‘Downeyland’ – just for him! It had everything: his living space, personal chefs, and all sorts of amenities. It sounds absolutely incredible!

According to reports from Liu, Robert Downey Jr. has created a playfully extravagant environment on the set of Avengers: Doomsday. He’s apparently provided a buffet, displayed artwork of himself, and included other over-the-top perks for his fellow actors. Downey seems to be fully aware of how silly it all is and is leaning into the bit—the self-portraits and lavish setup definitely give off a ‘Doctor Doom’ vibe, like he’s built his own personal kingdom on set.

With Avengers: Doomsday, Robert Downey Jr. appears in his eleventh Marvel film, starting with Iron Man in 2008. Fans have affectionately nicknamed him the “Godfather of the MCU” because of his crucial role in building the franchise over the last eighteen years. Now, he’s trading in his heroic persona to play the villain Doctor Doom, a move that marks the conclusion of the Multiverse Saga and the beginning of a new era for the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Despite achieving huge success and wealth through his Marvel films, Robert Downey Jr. is still celebrated for his warm personality and willingness to help those starting out. Actors like Anthony Mackie and Tom Holland have described being welcomed into a fun, relaxed atmosphere on set – affectionately nicknamed ‘Downeyland’ – thanks to Downey’s generosity. Now, Simu Liu is experiencing this same welcoming environment while filming Avengers: Doomsday, continuing a tradition of mentorship and camaraderie.

Robert Downey Jr. Deserves the “Massive Movie Star” Treatment

Although some might question the special treatment Robert Downey Jr. receives, he’s earned every perk Marvel offers during his return. Beyond key figures like Kevin Feige and Stan Lee, no one has contributed more to the success of the Marvel brand than Downey Jr.

The success of the Marvel Cinematic Universe was a team effort, involving many talented people. However, Robert Downey Jr. became the defining face of the franchise, especially during the eleven-year ‘Infinity Saga’ which produced twenty-three films. Remarkably, not a single one of those films failed either critically or financially – an unprecedented achievement. While Downey Jr. wasn’t solely responsible for the MCU’s success, his significant contribution is undeniable.

Following the release of Avengers: Endgame, no one questioned Robert Downey Jr.’s decision to leave the role of Tony Stark. The 2019 film provided a satisfying and emotional ending to his character’s story, and marked the end of his time in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Soon after, Downey Jr. received an Academy Award for his performance in Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer, solidifying his status as one of the most acclaimed actors of his generation.

Given his recent Oscar win, it was unexpected when Robert Downey Jr. eagerly agreed to return to Marvel. He signed on for two more Avengers films—Doomsday and Secret Wars. While the deal was undoubtedly expensive, Downey’s decision also shows how much he cares about the franchise and his willingness to explore a new direction by playing a villain.

Robert Downey Jr.’s appearance in Avengers: Doomsday will reunite him with many former co-stars and introduce him to the new generation of Marvel actors, such as Simu Liu and Florence Pugh. The film will also feature veteran performers from even earlier franchises, including a significant number of actors from the X-Men movies originally produced by Fox.

Considering everything, it’s clear Robert Downey Jr. has earned all the special attention he’s received while filming—and probably deserves even more! He was essential to launching the Marvel Cinematic Universe and is happy to come back and help create something new.

Avengers: Doomsday opens in theaters on December 18, 2026.

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2025-12-30 23:10