Robert Downey Jr. in talks to sign new Marvel contract

Iron Man 3 ’s ultra-impressive opening has been bittersweet for Marvel execs, because while the sound of ringing tills will be music to their ears, they will also be acutely aware that Robert Downey Jr. is no longer contracted for any more appearances as Tony Stark.

However, it seems that conversations have begun regarding a potential return, as according to The Hollywood Reporter , Downey attended a private dinner for Disney and Marvel bigwigs in which discussions were tentatively started over a new deal.

Talks are said to be revolving around The Avengers 2 and The Avengers 3 , in which Iron Man would play a key role. However, a fourth Iron Man film is not thought to be on the agenda as yet, with Downey not guaranteed to lead another solo outing.

Iron Man has been the cornerstone upon which the rest of the Marvel Cinematic Universe has been built, and Downey’s charisma has been key to the success of both the individual franchise and last summer’s The Avengers .

It’s understandable then that Marvel should want to bend over backwards to keep him, even if his fee is on the expensive side. After all, Iron Man 3 ’s opening weekend of $175.3m would suggest he’s probably worth the money...

The Avengers 2 will bring Marvel’s Phase 2 to a close on 1 May 2015, with The Avengers 3 tentatively pencilled in for 2017. Let’s hope the man in the can can be persuaded to hang around for a little while yet...

George was once GamesRadar's resident movie news person, based out of London. He understands that all men must die, but he'd rather not think about it. But now he's working at Stylist Magazine.