'Iron Man 4' Not Happening Soon? [Release Date, Cast, Plot & Rumors]

It seems so long ago, but back in 2008, "Iron Man" launched what is now the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

However, it seems that "Iron Man 4" isn't going to be happening any time soon. E Online reports that this could be caused by several factors, one being that Robert Downey Jr., who plays Tony Stark, is currently doing other projects for Marvel.

According to Downey, the Iron Man character is very interwoven into the MCU, and that it could be awhile before you see old helmet head back in his own solo movie. Downey has stated in an interview with David Letterman that currently, there isn't even a script out for "Iron Man 4".

However, Cinemablend does explain it the best. Currently, Downey is in contract with Marvel for only a certain amount of pictures. It is confirmed that he will be in at least three more Marvel movies, namely, Captain America: Civil War," "Avengers: Infinity Wars Part 1" and "Avengers: Infinity Wars Part 2."

These three movies takes the MCU until at least 2019, which would take Downey well into his 50's, and by then he may not able to do the part anymore. It may also be too expensive for Marvel to keep Downey playing Tony Stark / Iron Man, and they might even decide to recast the role for the next "Iron Man" film.

While it is difficult to picture anyone else as Tony Stark, Marvel hasn't been afraid to recast before. For those who might have forgotten, Marvel decided to change the actor for James Rhodes aka "Rhodey" from Terrence Howard to Don Cheadle between the first two films of the franchise.

Cheadle has since stayed with the role and even made a cameo appearance in "Avengers: Age of Ultron."

It is difficult to say if Downey will keep with the Iron Man character past his contracted films. However, it might be a nice change of pace to see a new actor play Tony Stark considering that Downey has been playing the role for nearly a decade.

However, Marvel has been known to be quite secretive with information so at this time, anything can happen. Fans can still see Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man in "Captain America: Civil War", which debuts on May 6, 2016.

What do you think of the delay of "Iron Man 4?" Do you think that Marvel should hire a new actor to play Tony Stark/Iron Man? Let us know in the comments below.