‘Iron Man 4’ Rumors, Latest News & Updates: Marvel Still Planning To Release ‘Iron Man’ Sequel Despite Robert Downey Jr.’s SDCC Absence?

"Iron Man 4" is currently making headlines again after its notable absence in Marvel Studios much-anticipated panel at the annual San Diego Comic-Con 2016. Even though several fans are clamoring for the release of the "Iron Man" sequel, the future of the franchise remains uncertain.

At the 2016 San Diego Comic-Con, one of the highly anticipated panel was Marvel Studios. Although "Iron Man" fans expect that the studio will drop some information about the fourth installment of the franchise, no details have been revealed about the possible development and release of "Iron Man 4."

'Iron Man 4' Development And Release Remain Uncertain

Despite the fact that "Iron Man" lead star Robert Downey Jr. has been absent in the past San Diego Comic-Con events, his recent no-show has ignited some questions about the future of the franchise. According to Vine Report, Marvel Studios dropped some updates and sneak peeks regarding the upcoming films for Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Unfortunately, no updates have been released regarding "Iron Man 4." Instead, the Marvel panel focus on their upcoming movies such as "Black Panther," "Spider-Man: Homecoming," "Doctor Strange" and "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2."

Tony Stark To Be Replaced In 'Iron Man 4'?

Even though Marvel Studios has yet to confirm the development of "Iron Man 4," rumors have it that Robert Downey Jr.'s Tony Stark character will be replaced by a Marvel supervillain. Based on the report of Ecumenical News, Marvel illustrator Alex Maleev recently sketched supervillain Dr. Doom wearing Stark's Iron Man suit.

@Marvel Infamous Ironman concept pic.twitter.com/0x2bUdavbs

— Alex Maleev (@alexmaleev) July 15, 2016

In addition, there were also speculations that Tony Stark will be replaced by 15-year-old MIT student Riri Williams in "Iron Man 4." The reason? Williams was able to "reverse engineer" Stark's infamous suit in the comic book series titled, "Civil War II," Time noted.

Black Widow As Iron Man In 'Iron Man 4'?

Aside from Dr. Doom and Riri Williams, there's another character who might replace Stark in "Iron Man 4." As per Christian Today, the comic books depicted the plot where Tony Stark lend the suit to Natasha Romanoff aka Black Widow, hinting that the upcoming "Iron Man" installment may follow Romanoff's journey as the next Iron Man or Iron Woman.

Meanwhile, the potential development for "Iron Man 4" seems to be at odds with Marvel plans as the MCU timeline is reportedly jam-packed until 2019, Parent Herald previously reported. Although it's not quite sure if "Iron Man 4" could still fit in the schedule, rumors have it that the movie may be released in 2020.

Do you think "Iron Man 4" will be released in 2020? Sound off below and follow Parent Herald for more news and updates.