The Infinity Saga sure left its mark in the hearts of many, thanks in no small part to Robert Downey Jr.’s grasp on theIron Mansuit ever since he put it on for the first time and it’s precisely that what made Tony Stark’s final moments so epic and look just as epic in comic cool style.
Although voiced by Mick Wingert instead of Downey Jr. in the newWhat if…?series,MCUfans will get to seeIron Manat least a couple of times in the animated series, as the show’s many trailers and teasers foreshadow Stark being rescued by Killmonger in Afghanistan. It’s still not clear when that episode will air, but it will definitely leave a better taste forIron Manfans who recently saw Stark meet his during the third episode, albeit in a far less glorious manner than inAvengers: Endgame.
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To capture this fine MCU moment, South Carolina-based actor and artistJohn Black (@john.black)was inspired by the same print art style that made Marvel Comics’ the pop culture phenomenon they are today. DespiteIron Manmaking his debut in 1963, alongside most of the first wave of Avengers, the character reached peak popularity for leading the MCU’s Avengers from 2008 until his 2019 snap of the Infinity Gauntlet.
It’s amazing how the artist has captured the emotion from Downey Jr.’s performance so masterfully, yet while managing to incorporate the actor’s likeness to an older design ofIron Manand replacing the dazzling CGI background from the Battle of Earth with something that looks as if taken straight out of an older issue. Black’s Instagram features plenty of similar artwork showcasing both classic scenes from the comics and newer content created by Marvel Studios, suchWandaVisionandWhat If…?’sCaptain Carter.
Traditionally, Iron Man did meet his definitive end in the comics, and that death was even more shocking as it came at the hands of Captain America prior to 2015’sSecret Warssaga that the MCU has been somewhat teasing with carefully placed easter eggs and plot clues spread out inShang-Chiand the rest of the show planned for Disney Plus. Don’t count on Robert Downey Jr. reprising his role in the future though, because it’s probably safe to say Marvel Studios won’t' have Doctor Doom revive Iron Man like he did in print format.
Nevertheless, theMCU still hasn’t found its new Tony Starkreplacement, after already dedicating an entire show to Sam Wilson’s journey to inherit Captain America’s shield, thoughthe way Doctor Strange is mentoring Peter ParkerinSpider-Man: No Way Home’strailer certainly has the sorcerer pinned as favorite to succeed Iron Man. However, the wayPhase Four is shaping with Kang the Conqueroras its villain, whoever steps up as the Avengers' new leader will have their work cut out for them.
