Robert Downey Jr under fire as details of massive paycheck and private jet perks for Marvel return leak

Robert Downey Jr under fire as details of massive paycheck and private jet perks for Marvel return leak
Robert Downey Jr is being criticized after details about his deal to return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe were revealed (Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Robert Downey Jr is under fire after details of his massive pay and extravagant perks for his return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) were leaked.

The actor, who became a global icon for his role as Tony Stark also known as Iron Man, is reportedly receiving a multi-million-dollar deal that has raised eyebrows for its sheer opulence.

Robert Downey Jr's return to MCU includes lavish perks

The 'Oppenheimer' star ultimately bid farewell to the role with 2019 'Avengers: Endgame', surprising many fans when he announced his return to the MCU in an entirely new role.

The actor confirmed he will portray Doctor Doom in the upcoming 'Fantastic Four' movie. He is set to reunite with directors Anthony and Joe Russo, known for helming 'Infinity War' and 'Endgame'.

Robert Downey Jr. speaks onstage at the Marvel Studios Panel during 2024 Comic-Con International at San Diego Convention Center on July 27, 2024 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images)
Robert Downey Jr speaks onstage at the Marvel Studios Panel during 2024 Comic-Con International at San Diego Convention Center on July 27, 2024 in San Diego, California (Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images)

Earlier this year, a Variety article reported details of the alleged agreement, citing sources that claimed Marvel was paying $80 million solely for the Russo brothers.

A source described as "knowledgeable" by Variety revealed that Downey Jr has earned between $500 to $600 million from his work with Marvel. However, his reported agreement is said to be driven by more than just financial considerations.

The Oscar-winner reportedly received perks like private jet travel, personal security, and a full "trailer encampment," benefits that have faced criticism from some quarters.

(L-R) Louis D'Esposito, Co-President, Marvel Studios, Kevin Feige, President, Marvel Studios, Robert Downey Jr., Joe Russo and Anthony Russo attend the Marvel Studios Panel in Hall H at SDCC in San Diego, California on July 27, 2024. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)
(L-R) Louis D'Esposito, Co-President, Marvel Studios, Kevin Feige, President, Marvel Studios, Robert Downey Jr, Joe Russo and Anthony Russo attend the Marvel Studios Panel in Hall H at SDCC in San Diego, California on July 27, 2024 (Alberto E Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

The private jet, in particular, has sparked debate among internet users, with Yahoo! Life calling its usage "problematic."

The publisher highlighted that private planes are up to 14 times more polluting per passenger than commercial flights and 50 times more polluting than trains, as per Unilad

Robert Downey Jr. attends 60th New York Film Festival -
Robert Downey Jr attends 60th New York Film Festival - 'Sr' at Alice Tully Hall, Lincoln Center on October 10, 2022 in New York City (Getty Images)

Downey Jr's use of a private plane has faced criticism, with some pointing out his past advocacy for environmentally friendly travel.

Last year, Downey Jr distributed six eco-modified cars from his show 'Downey's Dream Cars' as part of an initiative promoting sustainable solutions and supporting his FootPrint Coalition, which invests in combating climate change.

Netizens criticize Robert Downey Jr's lavish MCU perks

When news of Robert Downey Jr's perks initially broke, fans reacted swiftly. As netizens learned of the benefits he received, they began criticizing the actor.

A user wrote, "This s**t is so stupid. They paying him so much when that money could be used for the movie itself. I personally think his time was up with Ironman. That was his legacy. And iconic moment. Another actor could've had the chance with doom. But they wanna go broke with RDJ."



 

Another asked, "Did they have to bribe him to come back?"



 

A user commented, "Avengers doomsday visuals are gonna be trash because they spent all their money on him😭."



 

"Private jet? Dedicated security? Trailer encampment? So what do the people who work on the sets, do stunts, build sets and do VFX get for the grueling months they work? Pizza party? Not throwing shade at RDJ, guy does have to get paid but.....THAT much money?" questioned a critic.



 

A person said, "That’s honestly ridiculous…and the majority of people struggle to make ends meet."



 

Another added, "It's just gross at this point...RDJ doesn't need the money..just shows he doesn't care about the art and he is massively Greedy!"



 

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.

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