Mickey Rourke's Casting Speculation in 'Iron Man 2' a Bit Premature

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Contrary to the circulating rumors, Mickey Rourke is not in talks for the villainous role of Crimson Dynamo in "Iron Man 2". Revealing the matter was "Iron Man" star Robert Downey Jr. in a recent interview with MTV News on the set of "Sherlock Holmes". "That's actually incorrect," claimed the 43-year-old when asked about the casting speculations.

Questioned further whether Rourke is up for the role of Whiplash instead of Crimson Dynamo, the actor who recently received an Academy Award-nomination for his performance in "Tropic Thunder" stated, "I can neither confirm nor deny that." Still, he added, "Or maybe it's some semblance of both. Here, I can tell you everything about the story except I won't give away the ending. The nerd stuff is top-drawer security."

Back in early January, it was reported that Mickey Rourke has been linked to one of the villain roles in the "Iron Man" sequel. The star of "The Wrestler" reportedly was eyeing to portray Crimson Dynamo, a heavily tattooed Russian arms dealer who is considered to be an evil version of Iron Man. In a brief chat with MTV earlier, the 56-year-old has teased that he would bring "everything I can bring" to "Iron Man 2".

"Iron Man 2" will be directed by Jon Favreau using the script written by "Tropic Thunder" co-scribbler Justin Theroux. It sees the return of Robert Downey Jr. as the superhero in armored iron suit and the replacement of Terrence Howard with Don Cheadle for Colonel James 'Rhodey' Rhodes part.

On other "Iron Man 2" casting reports, actor Sam Rockwell has been linked to Justin Hammer character, while Emily Blunt who was up to play Black Widow has been reported to possibly dropping out due to scheduling conflicts. Set for May 7, 2010 U.S. release, the Marvel's superhero movie is reported to have a spring start in Manhattan Beach.