Robert Downey Jr. is suiting up as Tony Stark once again—but this time, it's for the happiest place on Earth. During Disney's D23 fan event, the company confirmed that Downey will reprise his iconic role for the massive expansion of Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure. The news comes as a delightful surprise, especially since Downey is currently gearing up to play Doctor Doom in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday. But in 2028, fans will get to see the beloved billionaire genius back in action, and he won't be flying solo.
Joining Downey in this new chapter are several familiar faces from the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Anthony Mackie (Captain America), Brie Larson (Captain Marvel), Jeremy Renner (Hawkeye), and Iman Vellani (Ms. Marvel) are all set to reprise their roles for the two new attractions: Avengers Infinity Defense and Stark Flight Lab. These rides will effectively double the size of the existing Avengers Campus, giving fans even more immersive superhero experiences.
Stark Flight Lab: Train Like an Avenger
Stark Flight Lab is particularly fitting for Downey's return, as it places guests inside one of Tony Stark's own experiments. Downey will appear as Tony alongside Mackie's Sam Wilson and Larson's Carol Danvers, who serve as your flight instructors. Imagineers describe the experience as feeling what it's like to train like an Avenger. The ride is mechanically groundbreaking, combining a linear track with enormous robotic arms mounted on moving bases, lifting and maneuvering guests through the air as part of their training.
Avengers Infinity Defense: Assemble the Team
The second attraction, Avengers Infinity Defense, raises the stakes considerably. Guests are welcomed as new recruits by Kamala Khan (Ms. Marvel) before being handed a monumental first mission: assemble the Avengers and stop Thanos. Hemsworth's Thor, Mackie's Captain America, and Renner's Hawkeye will be on hand, along with other Marvel heroes. This ride promises an epic, interactive adventure that puts you right in the middle of the action.
What makes this announcement even more intriguing is that Downey filmed his segments for the park while on the London set of Avengers: Doomsday, alongside the other actors. Given that Downey was sporting his Tony Stark hair and beard at the time, speculation is running wild about whether we might see Tony Stark himself in Doomsday, or if Doctor Doom's mask will hide a familiar face. The possibilities are tantalizing for Marvel fans.
This isn't the first time Marvel has expanded its theme park offerings. The VisionQuest trailer recently hinted at Ultron's return, and the studio continues to explore new storytelling avenues across all platforms. With the X-Men reboot also on the horizon, including Christopher Abbott as Professor X, the MCU is clearly in a phase of expansion and nostalgia.
Both attractions are scheduled to open in 2028, meaning Downey's latest performance as Tony Stark will arrive after Avengers: Doomsday. That timeline adds another layer of mystery to his character's arc. Will this be a variant, a flashback, or something else entirely? Disney hasn't revealed the plot details, but the involvement of the actual MCU actors—rather than lookalikes or animatronics—promises an authentic experience.
For fans who have followed Downey's journey from 2008's Iron Man to the climactic events of Avengers: Endgame, this return is a nostalgic treat. It's a chance to see Tony Stark in a new light, even if it's within the confines of a theme park. And with the X-Men cast officially announced, the MCU is clearly building toward a future that honors its past while embracing new heroes.
As we eagerly await 2028, one thing is certain: the legacy of Iron Man is far from over. Whether on the big screen or in the immersive world of Disneyland, Tony Stark continues to inspire and entertain. And with these new attractions, fans will have the chance to step into his world like never before.
