Marvel Teases Sentry’s Power as RDJ Returns as Dr Doom
Marvel’s latest official artwork hints at a new force in the Avengers universe, as Robert Downey Jr. returns in a surprising role. But it’s Sentry who may truly shake up the multiverse.
Once the embodiment of virtue, he’s now a figure shrouded in moral ambiguity. Robert Downey Jr. is preparing for a much-anticipated comeback in the next Avengers instalment, but this time, the man who once saved the cosmos is stepping into the shoes of Dr Doom. Meanwhile, fans have been abuzz after spotting a fresh piece of official artwork featuring Sentry—also known as The Void, or simply Bob—sparking speculation about his role in the unfolding saga.
Marvel Studios’ depiction of Sentry has certainly caught the eye, especially as the character, who first appeared in Thunderbolts*, is set to make his mark in the upcoming Avengers film. Sentry’s reputation precedes him: a being of near-divine power, capable of eclipsing even Thor and Hulk. With the energy of a star coursing through him, Dr Doom would seem almost insignificant by comparison—at least, until Sentry’s own inner turmoil takes hold. When his darker side emerges, it’s not even necessary for The Void to surface; a mere glance could reduce Doom to little more than a memory.
The Sentry and The Void: A Dual Threat
Yet, Dr Doom is no stranger to manipulation. His words, sharp as tacks, have a way of burrowing into the mind, twisting perceptions and intentions alike. Sentry, for his part, is a paradox: both a product of a disastrous experiment and a force of nature, his duality makes him all but indestructible.
His arrival brings to mind Captain Marvel’s role in the Infinity Saga—a character of immense potential, ultimately relegated to a fleeting appearance in the final battle. Similarly, Spider-Man’s involvement in Civil War was more of a strategic cameo than a central plot point. There’s a sense that Sentry may follow a comparable path, introduced late in the game, his true might only unleashed at the climax. Whether Bob’s journey will be more than a footnote remains to be seen, but whispers suggest he could become a pivotal figure in Secret Wars, perhaps even a gladiator of terrifying renown in the Battleworld arena.
Dr Doom’s Calculated Gambit
Recent films have introduced the concept of variants, so it’s hardly a stretch to imagine an Iron Man variant—Tony Stark by another name, now recast as Dr Victor von Doom. His wealth and ambition have propelled him into the stars, and while he may not fit the mould of a traditional villain, he’s acutely aware of the multiverse’s impending collapse. To stave off disaster, he’s prepared to make ruthless choices: sacrificing timelines, preserving only the most formidable individuals.
It’s not a matter of personal preference, but rather a calculated move to prepare for an even greater threat—perhaps The Beyonder. Armed with a blend of sorcery and science, Dr Doom intends to resurrect The Void, ensuring Bob’s presence endures, ready to be deployed against any adversary. The post-credits scene from The Fantastic Four: First Steps hints at his strategy: assembling a cadre of the most powerful beings for the battles ahead.
What Lies Ahead for the Avengers
With Avengers: Doomsday slated for release on 18 December 2026, anticipation is mounting. Theories abound regarding the fate of these characters and the shape of conflicts to come. Will Sentry’s power tip the scales, or will Dr Doom’s cunning prove decisive? The only certainty is that the Marvel universe is poised for upheaval, with old alliances shattered and new threats looming on the horizon.