Robert Downey Jr. has given Marvel fans the ultimate Thanksgiving gift: a tantalizing glimpse into what might be coming in the next phase of the MCU. The actor’s decision to share artwork depicting both Iron Man and Doctor Doom participating in the traditional wishbone-breaking ceremony has created waves of excitement and speculation throughout the global Marvel community.
The image presents a fascinating visual: the technological might of Iron Man’s armor and the mystical power of Doctor Doom’s gauntlet, both reaching toward a common point—the humble Thanksgiving wishbone. This juxtaposition of past and future, hero and villain, science and sorcery, creates multiple layers of potential meaning. Fans have noted that the wishbone tradition involves two parties pulling in opposite directions while hoping for their wish to come true, which could serve as a metaphor for the conflict to come.
The immediate aftermath of the post saw social media explode with commentary and analysis. Marvel devotees began dissecting every element of the artwork, from the specific armor designs shown to the positioning of the hands to the background details. Some fans expressed absolute certainty that this confirms Iron Man’s involvement in the upcoming films, while others cautioned against reading too much into what might simply be a holiday greeting with a fun Marvel twist.
Downey Jr. spent over a decade perfecting the character of Tony Stark, appearing in ten MCU films that collectively grossed billions of dollars and changed the landscape of blockbuster cinema. His performance brought wit, vulnerability, and gravitas to a character who became the face of an entire cinematic universe. The decision to close his story in Endgame was both heartbreaking and narratively satisfying, providing a conclusion that honored the character’s journey while opening the door for new heroes to step forward.
The mystery surrounding Avengers Doomsday and Secret Wars continues to deepen with each passing month. Marvel Studios has revealed only the bare minimum: release dates in December 2026 and December 2027, respectively, and a cast list filled with familiar faces and exciting newcomers. Every other detail remains classified, forcing fans to rely on hints, leaks, and posts like Downey Jr.’s artwork to piece together what might be in store. If the actor’s track record is any indication, this latest tease suggests that Marvel has plans that will exceed expectations and deliver surprises that no one sees coming.