There were reports after the film's release that the 48-year-old actor's pay could be close to USD 50 million, factoring in both box office business and the specifics of his contract with Marvel Studios, said the Hollywood Reporter.
Asked about the remuneration, he said, "Yeah. Isn't that crazy? They're so pissed, I can't believe it. I'm what's known as 'a strategic cost'."
"The Avengers" is the third highest-grossing film of all time, with a total worldwide gross of USD 1.5 billion.
Downey Jr returns as Tony Stark in Shane Black's "Iron Man 3", and he has hinted that he is not ready to relinquish the role yet.