Robert Downey Jr. to Reprise Iron Man Role in Three More Films

He may be in England filming Guy Ritchie’s Sherlock Holmes—in which he will play the iconic detective—but most movie fans worldwide are already anticipating the actor’s return as Iron Man, whose summer 2008 film debut earned $318 million in North America alone. Those same fans will be delighted to know that Downey will suit up for two more Iron Man sequels in addition to an Avengers film, which will unite ol’ Shellhead with the Hulk, Thor, Captain America and other Marvel heroes. The Associated Press reports that Iron Man director Jon Favreau will executive produce the Avengers film, due out in theaters July 15, 2011. Marvel Studios has yet to announce a director.

Iron Man 2 is slated to blast its way into theaters May 7, 2010. Favreau will return to direct, once again teaming with Downey as the titular superhero/billionaire industrialist and Gwyneth Paltrow as his leggy assistant, Virginia "Pepper" Potts. Series newcomer Don Cheadle steps in for Terrence Howard as James “Rhodey” Rhodes, who may or may not take to the skies as War Machine, his armor-clad alter ego.

Haven’t seen Iron Man? If that’s the case, I’m sure the rock you’ve been living under for is pretty damned comfortable. Hell, it must be. If you’ve really been that resistant to seeing good movies, do yourself a favor and pick up the DVD for the best superhero action you’re likely to find this side of Gotham City.