Robert Downey, Jr. has had hard-hitting news for Tony Stark fans as the actor slams rumors that a fourth "Iron Man" movie is in the works.

"There isn't one in the pipe," the 49-year-old actor said. "No, there's no plan for a fourth 'Iron Man.'"

Downey has already signed on to work with Marvel and Disney for two more sequels of the "Avengers", which have been slotted to premiere in the summer of 2015 and 2018. However, he admitted that he has been apprehensive towards joining more superhero movies.  

Like Us on Facebook

While in Toronto for the promotion of his new movie "The Judge", the actor was asked whether he would allow someone else to take on the role of Tony Stark. To this, Downey responded with a laugh.

"I like that the idea is that it would be up to me, like I'm casting director for Marvel," he said.

Downey's costar in "The Judge", Robert Duvall, had his own opinion on casting another actor to play the role of Iron Man. "Don't give it to anybody else," Duvall said.

According to Marvel's president, Kevin Feige, it remains their goal to move forward with solo "Iron Man" movies. The character may also follow in the footsteps of the "James Bond" franchise with which a new actor takes on the role from time to time.

Considering the fact that the third "Iron Man" installment raked in a whopping US$1.2 billion in the world box office, it is possible that Marvel will push through with additional installments to the superhero franchise, although mixed responses from fans and the larger public alike can be expected if Downey is to be replaced.

Meanwhile, Downey's other film, "The Avengers: Age of Ultron", with director Joss Whedon and the previous cast members who reprised their roles have already wrapped up their filming. The second "Avengers" movie will hit theaters on May 1, 2015.

TagsIron Man, Iron Man 4, Robert Downey Jr., Tony Stark