One wonders if the announcement today was meant to deflect the immense criticism coming from fans about the unexplained Howard/Cheadle switcheroo. But, the additional casting of Cheadle in The Avengers movie may explain much. This from Marvel...
Robert Downey, Jr. and Jon Favreau Suit Up For Marvel Studios' "The Avengers" and "Iron Man 2"
As part of his four picture deal with Marvel Studios, Robert Downey Jr. is appearing as Tony Stark in "The Avengers" motion picture, as well as reprising his starring role as the larger-than-life leading character in "Iron Man 2." Jon Favreau will return to direct the sequel to the blockbuster "Iron Man," which to date has grossed over $578 million worldwide, as well as executive produce "The Avengers."
Academy Award® nominee Downey was most recently seen in the summer comedy blockbuster "Tropic Thunder" starring opposite Ben Stiller and Jack Black. Before "Iron Man," he was best known for his film roles in "Kiss Kiss Bang Bang," "Wonder Boys" and "Chaplin," the film for which he was nominated for an Oscar®.
In addition to directing the first "Iron Man," Favreau has previously directed "Elf," "Zathura: A Space Adventure" and "Made." He is also well known for writing and starring in "Swingers." He will next be seen acting in "Four Christmasses," "I Love You Man" and "Couples Retreat."
Don Cheadle Will Star as Rhodey in "Iron Man 2"
Marvel Studios is pleased today to confirm that an agreement has been finalized with award-winning actor Don Cheadle to take on the role of Colonel James "Rhodey" Rhodes in Marvel's "Iron Man 2" due in theaters on May 7, 2010. In casting Cheadle, Marvel replaces Terrence Howard who appeared in the role of Rhodey in Iron Man.
Cheadle is also signed on to perform the same role in "The Avengers" and subsequent installments of the "Iron Man" franchise.
"We are very excited about working with the extraordinarily talented Don Cheadle as we expand the role of Rhodey in 'Iron Man 2.' It has already become apparent as we prep the movie for production, that the dynamic between Robert and Don will take 'Iron Man 2' to new heights," said Kevin Feige, President of Marvel Studios.
Cheadle is best known for his Oscar® nominated lead performance in "Hotel Rwanda" as well as his role as Basher Tarr in the "Ocean's" franchise, "Crash" and "Swordfish."
Based on Marvel's iconic Super Hero, "Iron Man 2" continues the story of this summer's box office blockbuster IRON MAN, the first feature film produced independently by Marvel Studios. "Iron Man 2" will be produced by Marvel Studios' President, Kevin Feige, and executive produced by Louis D'Esposito, Jon Favreau, Stan Lee, David Maisel and Denis Stewart.
In a movie event, "The Avengers" will bring together the super hero team of Marvel Comics characters for the first time ever, including Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, the Hulk and more, as they are forced to band together to battle the biggest foe they've ever faced.
The highly anticipated sequel to "Iron Man" will be released in theatres on May 7, 2010 and "The Avengers" will be released July 15, 2011. Both films will be distributed by Paramount Pictures.