Robert Downey Jr. and Ryan Reynolds Reportedly Had a "Tense Standoff" on Avengers: Doomsday Set

 Published August 28, 2025

A cloud of gossip has hovered over the Avengers: Doomsday set in recent days—but sources are now stepping forward to clear the air. Let’s unpack what’s rumor and what’s fact, plus where and when you’ll get to watch the film.

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The Rumor: A Tense Standoff Over a Joke?

Reports first surfaced suggesting that a “poorly timed joke” from Ryan Reynolds allegedly sparked a confrontation with Robert Downey Jr., leading to what was characterized as a “tense standoff” on set. Supposedly, Marvel had to adjust filming schedules by shooting the actors separately to defuse the tension. The rumor also mentioned Downey demanding reshoots—potentially inflating the budget by “millions”—after dissatisfaction with his body double’s performance in the Doctor Doom suit.

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The Reality: Rumors Debunked—No Feud, No Bad Blood

According to PEOPLE, the actors are not feuding and there's “zero bad blood” between them. In fact, it appears they’ve never even met in person.

TMZ echoes this, affirming the conflict narrative is baseless—both actors have a friendly rapport, and Reynolds holds Downey in high regard.

E! News adds further clarity: the speculation stemmed from an anonymous “blind item” on a podcast, but there’s no credible confirmation of any altercation.

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What’s Going On With Avengers: Doomsday?

Despite the frenzy, Avengers: Doomsday remains on track. Here’s what we know for sure:

The film is scheduled for release on December 18, 2026, as part of Phase Six of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Robert Downey Jr. is confirmed to return to the franchise—this time as Doctor Doom, not Iron Man.

A massive ensemble is onboard, including the X-Men, Fantastic Four, New Avengers, and allies like Chris Hemsworth, Paul Rudd, Tom Hiddleston, Simu Liu, Letitia Wright, and many more.

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Bottom Line

The idea of a “tense standoff” between Robert Downey Jr. and Ryan Reynolds on set is likely nothing more than fan-fueled conjecture.

Insiders and reputable outlets affirm there's no feud—and possibly no real-life interaction between the two.

Avengers: Doomsday is moving forward without hassle and promises a blockbuster ensemb

le crossover when it hits theaters in December 2026.