What's Next for the Cast of Iron Man 2?

With the much anticipated release of Iron Man 2 due to hit the theaters on May 7^th, it's time to start taking a look at what's next for the all-star cast of this projected blockbuster. Here then is a list of the major stars who will be appearing in Iron Man 2, along with their current and future acting projects.

Robert Downey Jr. (Tony Stark / Iron Man)

For the 45 year old star of the film, Robert Downey Jr., the future has never looked brighter. After having resurrected his troubled career with the 2008 release of Iron Man, Downey has been a hot commodity in Hollywood, and one who has quite a few upcoming major projects. Up next for the Iron Man star is a starting role in the comedy "Due Date" (to be released in November of 2010), and a reprisal of his role as Sherlock Holmes in the franchise's 2011 sequel, which to date remains untitled. Robert Downey Jr. will also be back for "Iron Man 3," and for the 2013 release of "Oz: The Great and Powerful Wizard."

Gwyneth Paltrow (Pepper Potts)

Set to continue her role as Tony Stark's ever able assistant and romantic interest Pepper Potts, in "Iron Man 2," Gwyneth Paltrow will take a turn in the drama "Love Don't Let Me Down," later on this year. However, the 37 year old star has recently announced that she is pulling out of co-starring with Nicole Kidman in "The Danish Girl," stating she is exhausted from having pushed herself too hard as of late.

Mickey Rourke (Ivan Vanko/Whiplash)

For the next few years, Mickey Rourke's slate looks to be full as Hollywood rumors having him playing roles in such films as, "Rambo V: The Savage Hunt," "Pretty Baby, Machine," and "Postdamer Platz." Currently, Rourke is in the midst of filming "Immortals," where he plays King Hyperion, in an epic battle that pits Titans against Olympians. The versatile actor will also be included in the star studded action film, "The Expendables," which is due out later this year.

Scarlett Johansson (Natasha Romanoff/The Black Widow)

Scarlett Johansson will follow her role in "Iron Man 2," with the starring roles in the movies "Brilliant" and "Lunatic at Large." In "Brilliant," Johansson will play a diamond thieve who is after the biggest heist in history, while the movie "Lunatic at Large," will see her co-star with another Iron Man 2 actor, Sam Rockwell.

Don Cheadle (Lt. Col. James "Rhodey" Rhodes/ War Machine)

A newcomer to the Iron Man franchise, and one who will be replacing Terrance Howard in the role of Rhodey, Don Cheadle has plenty of upcoming movies on his plate. Next for Cheadle will be the role of FBI Agent Wendell Everett in the comedy, "The Guard." Cheadle will follow up his role of the straight lace FBI Agent, with roles as an ex-con in "Broken Adonis," and as a drug dealer in "Marching Powder."

Samuel L. Jackson (Nick Fury)

For Samuel L. Jackson, the role of Nick Fury will lead him to starring roles in the follow up Marvel movies, "The Avengers (2012)," and "Nick Fury (2012). Both movies will see Jackson play the same role that he is establishing in "Iron Man 2." Away from the superhero genre, Jackson will also play roles in the 2010 releases of "The Other Guy," and "Vengeance: A Love Story."

Sam Rockwell (Justin Hammer)

After his turn as Justin Hammer in "Iron Man 2", you can look for Sam Rockwell in the biographical drama "Betty Anne Water," which stars Hilary Swank as the title character. Rockwell is also currently filming a yet untitled comedy with Elizabeth Banks, and will then be reunited with Scarlett Johansson in "Lunatic at Large."

Jon Favreau (Happy Hogan)

Director Jon Favreau who reprises his role as Happy Hogan, will next lend his voice to the 2010 release of "Zookeeper," as well as the projected 2011 release of "Cowboys and Aliens." Favreau will also take a turn directing the other, while being rumor to be part of the 2011 release of "Neanderthal," a movie currently in development.

Sources:

http://www.mania.com/scarlett-johansson-brilliant_article_51303.html

http://www.cinematical.com/2007/09/04/scarlett-johansson-to-become-a-brilliant-diamond-thief/

http://www.broadwayworld.com/article/Scarlett_Johansson_Sam_Rockwell_Set_for_Upcoming_Lunatic_at_Large_Flick_20100414

http://www.shadowandact.com/?p=12016

http://www.imdb.com/