When Marvel offered Dominique Thorne the role of Ironheart, she thought it was “nice but too much.” She feared she would be typecast by taking on a role in such a big franchise straight after coming out of theater and Broadway. Thorne admitted she had fears and doubts because of the pressure of the job!
Speaking to Vibe, she revealed that she was “hesitant” to accept the role. “I mean, of course, it’s humbling and incredible to have Marvel call you, and it’s definitely an honor in a way,” she said. But she had questions about how it would affect her career and future, which came from a place of fear. “Because I see myself, especially at that point, as a theater actor,” she said.
Thorne explained that she came from Brooklyn and went to school in the Theater District and was not interested in film until after graduation. She did see herself working in films in the future, but when Marvel called her she felt it was too early.
She said, “I was afraid I would only be seen as Ironheart or Riri (Williams). When I’m on my own, I want to do a lot more. I want to do a lot more authentically.” The fear of committing to a major role was very upsetting for her.
He ultimately accepted the role and credited the decision to his family, particularly his younger brothers Kai-Mani, 15, and Caleb, 7, who were very excited by the prospect. “Considering the other side of that scale and how much it means, also (factoring in) how big an opportunity it could be,” he explained.
Hearing, feeling and seeing the joy of her younger brothers who could say their sister was Ironheart meant a lot to her. “It’s untouchable. It’s a feeling that can’t be denied, it really is,” she said.
Thorne won hearts playing Ironheart in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, after which her character was expanded upon in multiple TV shows like Ironheart and the animated series Eyes of Wakanda.
Marvel officially announced the Ironheart spin-off series in December 2020, which was supposed to premiere on Disney+ in 2023. However, for some unforeseen reasons, the series kept getting delayed. Although there is no official release date, Ironheart will premiere on Disney+ in 2025.
