The enduring rivalry between Marvel and DC has woven a narrative that transcends time. This rivalry, often manifested through fan debates and industry competition, has taken unexpected turns, with one particularly tantalizing fact serving as a bridge between the two giants. In a twist of fate, the charismatic Robert Downey Jr, now synonymous with Marvel’s Iron Man, was in contention for a role in DC’s Batman universe.

Robert Downey Jr.
Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man

Downey Jr was in the running for the role of Scarecrow, a character known for inducing fear and chaos. Ultimately, the role went to Cillian Murphy, Downey Jr.’s Oppenheimer co-star. Murphy’s casting in Batman Begins marked the beginning of his portrayal of the menacing character, leaving Downey Jr. to follow a different path.
Fans are stirred by discussions and debates when imagining how Robert Downey Jr.’s career might have unfolded if he had played Scarecrow.

The Interwoven Hollywood Journey of Robert Downey Jr. and Cillian Murphy

Cillian Murphy - Batman Begins
Cillian Murphy – Batman Begins

Robert Downey Jr., celebrated for his iconic portrayal of Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, once had a near encounter with the DC Universe. The actor candidly revealed that he had discussions with Christopher Nolan about potentially playing the villainous Scarecrow in the Batman Begins.

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However, destiny had other plans, and the role ultimately went to the talented Cillian Murphy. Murphy’s portrayal of the Scarecrow left a lasting impression, leading to his return in both The Dark Knight and The Dark Knight Rises.
According to Griffin Schiller on X, a recently released video showcases Robert Downey Jr. discussing his past encounter with Christopher Nolan with attendees at an American Cinematheque panel.

Despite the initial setback, Downey Jr.’s career in the superhero genre was far from over. Three years after the release of Batman Begins, he secured the role that would redefine his career – Tony Stark, the genius billionaire with a suit of armor in Iron Man.

On the other hand, Cillian Murphy’s journey from Scarecrow to becoming a familiar face in Nolan’s cinematic ventures, including roles in Inception and Dunkirk. The collaboration between Murphy and Nolan reached new heights with Oppenheimer, where Murphy took on the lead role, showcasing the enduring partnership between actor and director.

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The Intriguing Prospect of Robert Downey Jr’s DC Career Surprised Fans

Robert Downey Jr.
Robert Downey Jr as Iron Man

The trajectory of Robert Downey Jr.’s career in the MCU could have taken a drastically different turn if his bid for a DC role, particularly as Scarecrow, had been successful. The tantalizing prospect of witnessing Downey Jr. embody the iconic Iron Man while wearing the mantle of the fearsome Scarecrow intrigued fans.

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The impact of Jon Favreau’s Iron Man on Marvel enthusiasts is immeasurable, holding a cherished place in their hearts for various reasons. Downey Jr.’s portrayal of Tony Stark not only became synonymous with the success of the MCU but also solidified Iron Man as a fan-favorite character.

Marvel fans, content with Downey Jr.’s eventual casting as Iron Man, find a sense of satisfaction in the actor’s DC role slipping through his fingers. Interestingly, some fans extend their gratitude not only to Downey Jr. but also to Cillian Murphy for having their favorite Iron Man.

As Downey Jr. soared to new heights as Iron Man, Cillian Murphy continued to carve his own niche in the industry. Although the paths of these two iconic actors would cross once again in the future, not as adversaries, but as collaborators in Christopher Nolan’s timeless classic, Oppenheimer.
The film brought together their formidable talents, showcasing the versatility and depth that both actors bring to the screen.

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