As someone who began the "Avengers" journey with "Iron Man" ten years ago, Robert Downey Jr says it is gratifying to see actors like Brie Larson, the newest addition to the team as Captain Marvel, shatter the glass ceiling.
Downey Jr was certainly the star attraction as he struck his trademark Iron Man pose during the Asia press conference for "Avengers: Endgame" with co-stars Jeremy Renner, Larson and directors Anthony and Joe Russo on Monday.
The actor said the emotional involvement of the audience with the franchise is the reward for the time and effort the team has put in these movies for the past decade.
"I'm honestly looking at, seeing all of you, and I know some of you hold this cinematic universe close to your heart and it has this symbolism stuff and it has really come to that way for us too," he said when asked about his future plans for the coming 10 years.
The 54-year-old star said trying to establish himself through Tony Stark to witnessing Larson's introduction as Carol Danvers has been a fulfilling experience.
"Now, I honestly just feel like I get to be a part of witnessing this cultural moment that's coming up and I'm filled with a lot of gratitude. Just to be (here) next door to the centre stage, to the lady of the hour here (Larson), who's broken through this double-pane glass window and kind of re-established what this genre is supposed to be, is just very gratifying," he added.
After his emotional response, the actor, known for his self-deprecating humour, quipped, "I sound so sincere. I'll stick around anyway."