Robert Downey Jr. surprised fans during San Diego Comic-Con by announcing that he will be playing Victor von Doom, also known as Doctor Doom, in the upcoming 2026 film Avengers Doomsday. While most people may recognize Doctor Doom as the main antagonist of the Fantastic Four, his character in the comics is much more complex and intriguing.
For those looking to delve deeper into the world of Doctor Doom, here are seven essential comics to read:
1. Jonathan Hickman’s run on Fantastic Four and Avengers: Hickman’s portrayal of Doom as a strategic mastermind playing 5D chess on a universal scale is a must-read for any Marvel fan.
2. Brian Michael Bendis’ Infamous Iron Man: This comic explores the relationship between Tony Stark and Doctor Doom, as Doom takes on the mantle of Iron Man after Stark’s death.
3. Doctor Strange and Doctor Doom: Triumph and Torment: A team-up comic featuring Doctor Doom and Doctor Strange that showcases Doom’s mystical side and his affinity for the dark arts.
4. Grant Morrison’s Fantastic Four: 1234: Morrison’s unique take on Doctor Doom as the devil on the shoulder of the Fantastic Four is a thrilling read.
5. Ed Brubaker’s Books of Doom: A deep dive into Doctor Doom’s backstory and motivations, offering insights into the man behind the metal mask.
6. Jonathan Hickman and Sanford Greene’s Doom #1: A one-shot story where Doctor Doom goes on a mission to defeat Galactus, giving readers a glimpse into the character’s complexity.
7. Runaways featuring Doombot: While not strictly about Doctor Doom, this comic introduces Doombot, a sassy and entertaining robotic stand-in for Doom that adds a fun twist to the usual villainous narrative.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Doctor Doom or looking to explore the character for the first time, these comics offer a diverse and captivating look at one of Marvel’s most iconic villains. Dive into the world of Doctor Doom and discover the intricate layers of this complex character beyond his role as the nemesis of the Fantastic Four.
