Oscar-winning actress Gwyneth Paltrow (Shakespeare in Love) has committed to joining the cast of the Iron Man movie starring Robert Downey Jr and directed by Jon Favreau. According to Marvel Studios, Paltrow will be playing Virginia 'Pepper' Potts, Tony Stark aka Iron Man's personal secretary and confidant.
Marvel Studios describes Paltrow's character as "one of the few people in Tony’s life who can go toe-to-toe with him, occasionally acting as his conscience and working to keep his priorities straight as he secretly defends the world as the armored hero known as Iron Man." The two are attracted to one another, but neither will admit that part of their relationship.
In a press release issued by Marvel Studios, President of Production Kevin Feige said, "Gwyneth is the embodiment of a leading lady. She brings intelligence, poise and an incredible range of talent to this role. We could not be more excited about the great chemistry this illustrious cast will bring to Iron Man.”
Avi Arad and Kevin Feige are producing the film with Ari Arad, Peter Billingsley (yes, the same Peter Billingsley who starred in A Christmas Story), Louis D'Esposito, Jon Favreau and Michael Helfant executive producing. Iron Man will begin filming in Los Angeles in March. Marvel Studios and Paramount Pictures will release Iron Man in theaters on May 2, 2008.
Paltrow was recently seen on the big screen in Infamous as Kitty Dean and Running with Scissors playing the daughter of Brian Cox and Jill Clayburgh. Next up is The Good Night with Penelope Cruz, directed by her brother, Jake.
Source: Marvel Studios/Paramount Pictures
