“There’s no way Iron Man is the anchor”: Kevin Feige Smartly Dodges a Robert Downey Jr. Question After Deadpool 3 Establishes Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine the Anchor of X-Men Universe
- Iron Man's role in the MCU as an ‘anchor’ is being debated by fans.
- Kevin Feige simply avoided answering whether Iron Man was the one.
- Fans argue Iron Man’s Endgame sacrifice shows the MCU can move on without him, too.
The Marvel Cinematic Universe is full of memorable heroes, and Iron Man, played by Robert Downey Jr., is a standout. He played a huge role in shaping the franchise. Recently, however, fans have been debating a new question about his impact.
The question at hand is whether Iron Man is the ‘anchor being’ of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. For those who may not know, Deadpool & Wolverine introduced this new concept to the MCU.
An ‘anchor being’ is a powerful individual whose presence is essential for their universe’s stability. In Deadpool 3, Wolverine, famously played by Hugh Jackman, was shown to be the anchor of the X-Men universe. His death led to the gradual collapse of that world.
Kevin Feige Responds Cryptically to Iron Man Question
The debate started when Kevin Feige, was asked by Brandon Davis from Phase Zero if Iron Man was the ‘anchor’ of the universe, much like Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine in X-Men movies. Instead of giving a clear answer, the Marvel boss just smiled and called the question interesting. He said:
The fact that you even asked that makes me happy, and that the term has ignited your imagination to even ask that question.
This mysterious reply has led many to wildly speculate. Iron Man was crucial for the Avengers and the whole Infinity Saga. His sacrifice in Avengers: Endgame was a big deal that shook the MCU.
However, many fans think it’s unlikely to see Iron Man as the MCU’s anchor. They argue that his sacrifice in Avengers: Endgame showed that the universe can continue to function without him. So, according to them, Iron Man was important but not crucial for the MCU’s survival.
The answer is pretty easy: no. In Loki, Ravonna told Mr Laufeyson that the events of End Game were supposed to take place and Doctor Strange in Infinity War said out of a bajillion possibilities, that was the only way they would win. Therefore, there's no way Iron Man is the…
— Jah (@JahlilWill) July 29, 2024
The new multiverse concept in recent films has made things more complicated, with some also suggesting that each universe might have its own ‘anchor.’ Even though the movie doesn’t directly confirm this idea, it’s interesting to think about. As the MCU explores the multiverse more, the idea of anchor beings might become even more important.
The Real Anchor of the MCU — According to Fans
Now that Iron Man is gone, it’s unclear who or what keeps the MCU together. Some people think it might be a powerful cosmic being, while others believe it could be a group of heroes working together. But most think it’s Doctor Strange. Check out their fan reactions:
its obviously doctor strange
— shoop (@shoopityshoop) July 30, 2024
It’s Strange
— Kenneth. (@kfornoz) July 30, 2024
Prob doctor strange tbh
— John (@gjjggkhgguknv) July 29, 2024
Not Doctor strange
I'm surprised they have anchor of that character which they share the Rights and not Doctor strange which they have all rights too— ᱬ NM ۞ ➃ Ⓐ ⨂ “ (@itsokloll) July 29, 2024
I think it's Dr. Strange
— Nikolai Rodriguez (@rod67780) July 30, 2024
The MCU has now evolved beyond a single character. While Iron Man will always hold a special place in fans’ hearts, the future of the franchise lies in the hands of a other heroes, perhaps?
Deadpool & Wolverine is currently screening in theatres!
