'Iron Man 4' news: Why Riri Williams is speculated to replace Tony Stark

(Marvel website)In the comics, Tony Stark has already passed the baton to Riri Williams, and there are speculations that the same thing will happen in Marvel Cinematic Universe where the latter will take over the lead in "Iron Man 4."

The emergence of the newest "Iron Man" on comics has prompted speculations that the new female heroine will replace actor Robert Downey Jr.'s Tony Stark on the fourth sequel of the standalone film.

In the currently running "Invincible Iron Man" comic series, Tony has already passed on his superhero duties to science prodigy Riri Williams, who found a way to reverse-engineer an old Iron Man suit. She will soon star in her own comic series that will be released in November, which means Tony would have already completely retired from saving the world.

A new superhero name has also been revealed and she will be named "Ironheart." In an interview with Wired, writer Brian Michael Bendis said that Ironheart was suggested by Joe Quesada after he shared his plans for Riri's story to him. He said of the new name, "speaks not only to the soul of the character but to the 'Iron Man' franchise as a whole."

While Tony wore the armor to save his heart, Riri's reasons are different but both are heart-related. Bendis shared, "When people see her story, you'll be amazed at how simple and brilliant Joe's suggestion was."

The shift of focus in the comic series is believed to be followed in the movies. Marvel Cinematic Universe is still mum about the anticipated "Iron Man 4" sequel. The franchise that is said to have raised actor Downey, Jr.'s celebrity status while, at the same time, the actor is credited to have made the character a household name in comics and film as well.

Downey has previously said that there are no plans to have a fourth movie but, while promoting the movie "Captain America: Civil War," he said that he feels he can do one more. That has given fans hope that they will see him again in a standalone film.

With the introduction of Riri, however, many speculate that a new character will also be introduced in the sequel. For now, fans just have to wait for the studio's official announcement.

Copyright © 2016 Ecumenical News