Looks like Robert Downey Jr isn’t done with the Marvel Cinematic Universe just yet. The man who spearheaded the pop culture behemoth that is Marvel Studios back in 2008 has just signed on to SPIDER-MAN: HOMECOMING. This bit of news doesn’t really come as a huge surprise to those who have been following the trades. RDJ is someone who’s always been game for re-upping his contracts, and given that this is the third Spidey reboot in the past 15 years, the film could sure use a boost in pedigree for mainstream audiences.

There’s been plenty of chatter regarding SPIDER-MAN: HOMECOMING, and while there were no specifics regarding who would show up in the film until this point, Tony Stark seemed like a natural fit. He and Peter Parker would likely connect on a scientific level with one another, and seeing as RDJ may be on his way out of the MCU in the next five or so years, it seems like the perfect way to pass the torch onto the next big Avenger.

Actor Tom Holland will be making his Spider-Man debut in the upcoming CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR, and if the buzz is any indication, he’s a terrific fit for the character. Word has it that the film will begin the connection between Stark and Parker, and that thread will continue into SPIDER-MAN: HOMECOMING. 

That’s not the only bit of news to come out regarding Spider-Man’s first solo outing. If you’ll recall, in the previous week, there were reports that Michael Keaton was up for a role in the film, which was rumored to be for the Vulture. Deadline is now reporting that Keaton has passed on the role. This is an unfortunate bit of news, as Keaton would’ve been a great addition to the already-astounding cast in the MCU, but given Marvel’s track record, one can assume they’ll find a worthy actor to take up the mantle in his place.

What are your thoughts on Downey joining Spidey’s first flick in the MCU? Are you disappointed that Keaton won’t be joining? Let us know in the comments down below!

You’ll be able to check out both Iron Man and Spider-Man in CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR, which hits U.S. theaters on May 6, 2016.

Don’t forget to share this post on your Facebook wall and with your Twitter followers!

SOURCE: THR, Deadline