The 98th Academy Awards saw the OG Iron Man and Captain America Robert Downey Jr and Chris Evans reunite on stage, celebrating nearly 14 years since the release
of The Avengers, in what can only be called a nostalgic moment for Marvel fans. The two stars appeared together at the Dolby Theatre to present the awards for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Original Screenplay. Check Out Oscars 2026 Full Winners List Here Before handing out the first award of the segment, Downey Jr. reflected on the importance of writing in filmmaking. “Wow, the script, right?” Downey Jr. said. “It’s the driving force of any film, and this has truly been a banner year for screenwriters.” The presenters then launched into a playful exchange that referenced their long history together in the Marvel franchise. Evans noted that the moment marked an important milestone for the actors. “What’d you get me for our anniversary?” Evans asked. Downey Jr responded jokingly, “Dude, hold on.” Evans clarified the reference, reminding the audience about their shared Marvel legacy. “It’s the 14th year anniversary of our first Avengers movie. I got you a signed copy of the original script signed by the whole cast,” he said. “It’s backstage, but I really thought this through.” Downey Jr, playing along with the bit, replied, “Yeah, mine’s backstage,” before handing Evans an unexpected substitute - his valet parking ticket. “You self-drove?” Evans asked to which Downey Jr replied, “I did, I’m a man of the people.” The duo continued the comedic exchange after the Best Adapted Screenplay award was presented to Paul Thomas Anderson for One Battle After Another. Before announcing the Best Original Screenplay winner, Downey Jr ran backstage and returned with what he claimed was Evans’ anniversary gift. He then handed Evans “the official tanning shadeam thong from Magic Mike.” The unexpected prop sparked another reaction from the audience, including Channing Tatum - the star of Magic Mike - who jokingly called out that he would need the item returned. The Marvel-themed moment was not entirely surprising, as the Oscars telecast had hinted at a superhero reunion ahead of the ceremony. Executive producer Katy Mullan had teased the appearance earlier in the week during a press conference. “There’s also going to be a Marvel reunion for the superhero fans,” she said. “So we’re gonna have superstar superheroes, and there is also going to be an extraterrestrial on the stage. So you can figure that one out.” The reunion also comes as the Marvel franchise prepares for a major year ahead. Among the most anticipated upcoming releases is Spider-Man: Brand New Day, starring Tom Holland, which is scheduled to arrive in theatres on July 31. Another major project on the horizon is Avengers: Doomsday, the long-awaited follow-up to Avengers: Endgame. The film is set to premiere on December 18 and is expected to bring together numerous characters from across the Marvel universe.
