Mel Gibson Not Directing ‘Iron Man 4,’ But Robert Downey Jr. Says He's In Negotiations To Return

Indeed. Leading the witness in a humorous way, a reporter at Deadline suggested to Robert Downey Jr. last week that his good friend Mel Gibson could direct “Iron Man 4.” Downey Jr., going along with, playfully responded, “Why not? That movie would be bananas.” It was a joke between the writer and actor, but that didn’t stop the Internet from saying Robert Downey Jr. won’t star in “Iron Man 4” unless Mel Gibson directs.

But it could be a thing, the wishful thinkers thought, right? In today’s Reddit AMA, however, Downey Jr. dismissed the “story” and put it to rest. “It was an offhanded remark to a journalist and friend,” he wrote. “I have other projects in mind for Mel and I—sooner than later the Marvel Roster will be made public and all questions will be answered.” So no, Gibson won’t direct “Iron Man 4.”

Asked about “Iron Man 4” on "Ellen," the actor said, “I know there’s going to be more Marvel movies, and they have big ideas of how to do it best. We’re...