Tom Holland reveals Robert Downey Jr called him before Doctor Doom announcement

Tom Holland and Robert Downey Jr. Pic via special arrangements

Tom Holland and Robert Downey Jr may no longer share screen space as Spider-Man and Iron Man, but their friendship continues well beyond the Marvel Cinematic Universe. And when Downey decided to return to the MCU in a surprising new role, Holland was among the first people to hear about it.

The actor recently opened up about the moment Downey personally informed him about his highly anticipated MCU comeback. The Oscar-winning actor is set to return to the franchise as the iconic villain Doctor Doom, years after Tony Stark's emotional death in Avengers: Endgame.

Speaking during promotions for Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Holland revealed that Downey called him directly to share the news before it became public.

Robert Downey Jr's surprise call

Reflecting on the conversation, Holland said he was stunned when Downey reached out with the update. The actor shared that the two often stay in touch and regularly catch up despite their busy schedules.

"I think I hung up and said to Zendaya, 'Downey's back,'" Holland recalled.

He further revealed that Downey personally informed him about his MCU return during one of their conversations. "Yes, he just called me. In fact, I caught up with him on the phone a couple of days ago. We usually catch up from time to time. He got in touch and just told me. And it's very exciting," Holland said.

The revelation offers a glimpse into the close bond the actors have maintained since first appearing together in Spider-Man: Homecoming. Downey famously played a mentor figure to Holland's Peter Parker both on and off screen.

Marvel's next big chapter

Downey's return was first announced during San Diego Comic-Con, where Marvel Studios confirmed that he would rejoin the franchise as Doctor Doom instead of reprising his role as Iron Man.

The casting announcement instantly became one of the most talked-about moments among Marvel fans, with many eager to see how the actor will bring one of the comic book universe's most feared villains to life.

Meanwhile, Holland is gearing up for Spider-Man: Brand New Day, while Marvel continues building anticipation for Avengers: Doomsday. Directed by Joe and Anthony Russo, the film is expected to unite multiple corners of the MCU and serve as the next major chapter in the franchise.

Avengers: Doomsday is scheduled to release in theatres in India on December 18, 2026.