The "Iron Man" franchise has been one of the most lucrative Marvel has ever had, aside from the previously released Avenger movies. Marvel had declared previously that the "Iron Man 4" will still be coming in 2020 or later. However, it may be possible that the role of the superhero Tony Stark will not be cast to Robert Downey Jr. anymore after he has been playing the role for over a decade.
Christian Today previously published rumors regarding Downey Jr. not playing the iconic role in the future. The rumors have disappointed a lot of fans used to Iron Man being played by the award-winning actor. According to MNR Daily, new reports are confirming the previous rumors. Now it seems that Marvel themselves are looking for a new actor to play the role of Tony Stark.
Movie News Guide reports that the studio is looking an actor a bit younger to play the role Iron Man in the future and someone who can play the same role in future "Iron Man" movies. Downey will be turning 55 years-old by 2020, if the fourth installment is going to be coming then. At that age, it might become difficult for the actor to perform some of the action sequences and stunts that are required.
Ty Simpkins is one of the possible candidates that might be replacing Downey in "Iron Man 4." In the previous sequels, Simpkins played Hayley Keener. The rumors are still unconfirmed and it is not certain that another actor will wear the Iron Man suit passed down by Robert Downey Jr.
Downey Jr. is still set for now to reprise his role as the Iron Man in the two part "Avengers: Infinity Wars" movie series and in the upcoming new movie "Captain America: Civil War." There are also rumors that in the upcoming new "Spider Man" solo movie he will be also making an appearance as the Iron Man.