Marvel has officially announced where both Iron Man 2 and The Avengers movies stand and when you’ll see them, as well as information on who’s involved and what they’re doing.
Most importantly, they’ve confirmed that Robert Downey Jr. will appear in both Iron Man 2 as well as The Avengers movie as part of a 4-picture deal he has with Marvel. Jon Favreau (as is known) will direct the sequel and he will also serve as an executive producer on The Avengers.
Marvel also confirmed that Don Cheadle is replacing Terrence Howard in the role of James Rhodes for Iron Man 2, The Avengers, and any other Iron Man movies that will be produced. What they did not confirm, is why Howard was replaced.
All they say is:
We are very excited about working with the extraordinarily talented Don Cheadle as we expand the role of Rhodey in ‘Iron Man 2.’ It has already become apparent as we prep the movie for production, that the dynamic between Robert and Don will take ‘Iron Man 2′ to new heights
Could the reason be that Terrence Howard wasn’t planning on being involved in other installments after the sequel or maybe even the Avengers movie? That would make more sense of everything, considering it didn’t seem to be a mutual decision.
Iron Man 2 is looking to be released May 7, 2010 and The Avengers movie — which will bring together Iron Man, Hulk, Captain America, Thor, and others — will be released July 15, 2011.
