Hollywood’s Changing Cast: Downey Jr. Steps In for Majors

Jonathan Majors, known for his roles in “Loki” and “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania,” recently expressed his heartbreak over being replaced by Robert Downey Jr. as the main villain in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Majors, who was originally set to play Kang the Conqueror in “Avengers: The Kang Dynasty,” shared his feelings with TMZ after Marvel announced Downey Jr. would return to the MCU as Doctor Doom in the newly titled “Avengers: Doomsday.”

“Yeah, heartbroken. Of course,” Majors said when asked about the announcement. “I love Kang. Doctor Doom is wicked, though.”

Majors acknowledged Downey’s past legal troubles, including a 1999 prison sentence for substance abuse, and noted the patience and support Downey received from the public. He also referenced Ezra Miller’s controversies before the release of “The Flash,” highlighting how both actors continued to work despite their issues.

“They’re being allowed to work their art and be creative at that level,” Majors remarked. With a laugh, he added, “I didn’t really get that.”

When asked about reprising his role as Kang, Majors was enthusiastic. “Hell yeah! Hell yeah! I love him. I love Kang,” he said. “If that’s what the fans want, and that’s what Marvel wants then let’s roll. Hell yeah.”

Majors’ conviction on one count of assault and one count of harassment in December led to Marvel dropping him from the role. He was ordered to complete a 52-week in-person batterer’s intervention program and continue mental health therapy. Following his conviction, Majors lost his talent manager, publicist, and several high-profile projects, including the Dennis Rodman biopic “48 Hours in Vegas.” His film “Magazine Dreams” was also pulled from the release calendar.

Despite these setbacks, Majors remains hopeful about his future in the MCU, eagerly awaiting a possible return to his beloved role as Kang the Conqueror.