Downey, Favreau reteam on `Iron Man 2,' 'Avengers'

Robert Downey Jr. is strapping on his metal suit to join the superhero team effort "The Avengers" in addition to "Iron Man 2."

Robert Downey Jr. Gallery
“Iron Man”: The Maria Salas Interview
Terrence Howard: "Ïron Man" Swap a Surprise

Downey is reprising his role as billionaire genius Tony Stark from last summer's blockbuster "Iron Man." The sequel is due May 7, 2010, and "The Avengers" is scheduled for July 15, 2011, Marvel Studios announced Tuesday.

The movies are part of a four-picture deal between Downey and Marvel.

"Iron Man" director Jon Favreau is returning to direct "Iron Man 2" and serve as executive producer on "The Avengers," which will team the guy in the metal suit with Marvel Comics heroes the Hulk, Captain America, Thor and others.

Terra USA/AP