Is "Iron Man 4" really in the cards for Marvel's Cinematic Universe?

There have been a lot of speculations and rumors claiming that an "Iron Man 4" is happening and that it is slated for a 2019 release. However, it's almost a year now since word that a new "Iron Man" sequel is bound to hit the big screen, but official updates remain elusive.

In October 2014, IMDb has learned that there were reports stating that an "Iron Man 4" could be happening after the third installment of the famous Robert Downey Jr. starrer franchise. At the time though, Downey Jr. said he was not interested in making a sequel to the franchise.

In January 2015, Marvel announced nine movies that would ultimately help conclude the "Avengers franchise when "Avengers: Infinity Part 2 " hits theaters come May 2019. Around the same time, the rumors of creating a sequel to the blockbuster hit "Iron Man 3" run amuck the Web.

However, IMDb has learned that Downey Jr. may not be reprising his role as Tony Stark, leading some to speculate that the lead character could be played by Harley Keener, who made an appearance in the third installment as a 13-year-old precious youngster portrayed by Ty Simpkins. There was even word that Kenner will be around 17 to 18 years of age in the rumored sequel.

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However, to this day, Marvel and Paramount have yet to confirm the idea of having an "Iron Man 4" sequel to the blockbuster third installment that raked in $1.2 billion worldwide, as per E! News.

Given the success and popularity of the "Iron Man" franchise, it is not surprising rumors and speculations continue to surface claiming an "Iron Man 4" is in the works.

Movie News Guide even reported that the rumored Marvel film has actually been delayed because Robert Downey Jr. is demanding for a pay hike, perhaps to continue his reign as the highest paid actor in Hollywood.

Nevertheless, until Marvel confirms that it has given the project the go signal, all these speculations should be treated with a grain of salt.