Jonathan Majors, known for his role as Kang in Ant-Man and Loki, will not reprise his role in the Marvel universe due to personal issues.
Robert Downey Jr. will replace him in the upcoming Avengers films.
The next Avengers installment is approaching, but the villain Kang the Conqueror will not be featured. Originally, his story was set to continue, but Majors was arrested for assault and harassment of his then-girlfriend. He faced court and was sent to rehabilitation. Disney decided to take a firm stance against his actions and fired him, along with his agent.
Marvel had to rework or completely change their plans.
The original film, Avengers: The Kang Dynasty, which was supposed to focus on Majors’ character, has been retitled Avengers: Doomsday. This new movie will feature Doctor Doom, played by superstar Robert Downey Jr., formerly known for his role as Iron Man. Avengers: Doomsday is set to be released in May 2026.
After this announcement, Jonathan Majors spoke briefly to TMZ about his feelings: “It broke my heart. I wish it wasn’t true! I love Kang. However, I acknowledge that Doctor Doom is impressive,” he said, noting that Downey was given the chance to star in multiple Marvel films despite his own troubled past.
In 1996, Downey was arrested for possession of heroin, cocaine, and an unloaded firearm, receiving a three-year probation. In the following years, he faced numerous other legal issues, which made some Marvel executives hesitant to cast him as Iron Man.
“I think it’s fair to say that Mr. Downey has been welcomed with patience, curiosity, and love… and was allowed to work and be creative at this level,” Majors commented on how Downey was allowed to return despite his legal troubles. “I didn’t get that opportunity.“
