Robert Downey Jr is reportedly campaigning for his Avengers co-stars to get a pay rise for the sequel.
The Iron Man 3 star, who received a staggering $50 million pay cheque for the first film, is fighting for his co-stars – who only got a paltry $200,000 – to get a cash boost, accordng to Deadline.
The Avengers cast including Scarlett Johansson, Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Jeremy Renner and Samuel L Jackson are now demanding $5 million upfront plus back-end options but Marvel are threatening to recast.
But Downey Jr – who Marvel are keen to see return in Avengers 2 – is refusing to sign up to the sequel unless his co-stars get a better deal.
He recently revealed that his contract with Marvel has expired sparking speculation that he wouldn’t be back for Iron Man 4.
A source said: ‘He’s the only guy with real power in this situation. And balls of steel, too. He’s already sent a message that he’s not going to work for a place where they treat his colleagues like s***.’
Another insider added: ‘Some received only $200,000 for Avengers and Downey got paid $50m. On what planet is that OK?’
Marvel president Kevin Feige told The Huffington Post recently that they were keen for Downey Jr to continue starring as Iron Man.
‘It certainly is our plan to continue to have Robert Downey in the persona of Tony Stark for many, many years to come.’
The Avengers was a huge box office hit and has since become the third highest grossing film of all time.
