Jon Favreau and Robert Downey Jr. in for "Iron Man 2" and "The Avengers"

A Marvel press release landed in my inbox which I’m seriously overjoyed about: Robert Downey, Jr. will appear as Tony Stark in “The Avengers” movie, as well as reprise the role in “Iron Man 2.”

Also, Jon Favreau will direct “Iron Man 2,” as well as executive produce “The Avengers.” I figured this would probably be the case — especially with the wild success of “Iron Man” — but it’s always fun to see it in an official press release.

More after the jump…

Here’s a switch, though. Don Cheadle will take on the role of Colonel James “Rhodey” Rhodes in “Iron Man 2,” replacing Terrence Howard, who originated the role in “Iron Man.” Cheadle has also signed to perform the role in “The Avengers” and subsequent installments of the “Iron Man” franchise (so there’s more coming? Hmmm…).

No word on WHY the replacement. You have to wonder, because these movies will be huge, and you’d think that Terrence Howard would be all over them.

“Iron Man 2″ will hit theaters on May 7, 2010, and “The Avengers” is scheduled for release on July 15, 2011. Both films will be distributed by Paramount Pictures.

Image used with permission by Newscom.com

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