Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey
is set to be an epic of legendary proportions, proving once again that he makes films like no other. With a dazzling ensemble cast, a gripping adaptation of mythology, and Nolan’s signature brilliance, this film is already drawing praise before its release. Early reports suggest breathtaking cinematography, a bold narrative, and awards potential. Set for a 2025 release, it is positioned to dominate both the box office and critical circles.
Now, there have been reports that Robert Downey Jr.
had a throne among gods in The Odyssey
but chose to fight in spandex once more.
Robert Downey Jr. lets The Odyssey sail without him as Christopher Nolan searches for a new star
According to Daniel Richtman, widely known as Daniel RPK, Christopher Nolan sought to cast Robert Downey Jr. as Poseidon in The Odyssey
. The role would have allowed Robert Downey Jr. to trade futuristic suits for divine wrath, commanding the seas under Nolan’s grand vision. Yet, Marvel’s call proved stronger. Bound by his busy schedule for Avengers: Doomsday
, Robert Downey Jr. turned down the chance to reign over mythology in favor of returning to his superhero domain.
According to @DanielRPK, Christopher Nolan offered the role of Poseidon to Robert Downey Jr. in ‘THE ODYSSEY’.
The actor had to decline because he’s busy filming ‘AVENGERS: DOOMSDAY’. pic.twitter.com/byZgxIgthP
— Christopher Nolan Art & Updates (@NolanAnalyst) March 2, 2025
Daniel Richtman has long been a trusted source for Hollywood’s most sought-after secrets. The man correctly foresaw the multiverse reunion of Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield in Spider-Man: No Way Home
and unveiled insider details on The Batman
before official confirmations. With his history of accuracy, his report on The Odyssey
fuels both excitement and speculation over what could have been had Downey Jr. chosen the trident over the nuclear-powered battle suit.
Many believe Christopher Nolan saw true brilliance in casting the Iron Man
actor as Poseidon, and the reasons are quite compelling.
Why Robert Downey Jr. could have ruled the seas in Christopher Nolan’s epic?
Robert Downey Jr. could have been a force of nature in Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey.
Having already collaborated in Oppenheimer
, their dynamic was set, ensuring a seamless creative process. Robert Downey Jr. also had the chance to reunite with Tom Holland, rekindling a beloved on and off screen bond. However, Marvel made him an offer too tempting to refuse, with Avengers: Doomsday
securing him one of the largest paychecks of his career, even out-earning Hollywood icon Keanu Reeves.
Yet, beyond financial gains, the role of Poseidon seemed tailor-made for him.
Marvel’s genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist has portrayed larger-than-life characters before. His commanding presence in Sherlock Holmes
demonstrated intelligence and unpredictability, while Iron Man
showcased his ability to balance arrogance with authority, both traits essential for the tempestuous sea god. His knack for embodying powerful yet flawed figures would have made his Poseidon unforgettable. While Robert Downey Jr. chose to reign as Doctor Doom instead, his absence leaves The Odyssey,
missing a truly electrifying presence.
Read More: Superhero Dismay: Comic Book Movies Raise Concerns Following Immense Success at Razzie Awards
Do you think Robert Downey Jr. would have played Poseidon well? Let us know in the comments down below.