Robert Downey, Jr. the New Super Superhero?

In addition to starring in Iron Man 2, which does not even come out for another two years (May 7, 2010), Robert Downey, Jr. has recently signed a contract to star in Iron Man 3 and the new superhero flick, The Avengers. In each film, Downey, Jr. will be portraying Iron Man and alter ego, Tony Stark. The Avengers, set to release on July 15, 2011, will bring together such superheroes as Iron Man, Thor, the Incredible Hulk, and Captain America. In addition to Downey, Jr. starring in The Avengers, Don Cheadle, who will replace Terrence Howard in Iron Man 2, will also appear in The Avengers. It is said that Marvel needed to concretely get Downey for the future superhero films. Downey is said to be already looking at Warner Bros.' Sherlock Holmes, which could possibly be another long term movie deal for the actor. To date, Iron Man has grossed well over $550 million worldwide.