Any Iron Man fans who might have had an emotional meltdown over the prospect of Robert Downey Jr not returning for a fourth movie can now dry their eyes, as it seems a compromise may have be found. The only problem is, that compromise involves Marvel allowing troubled actor Mel Gibson to step behind the camera.

robert downey jrRobert Downey Jr has said there are no plans for a fourth Iron Man movie

In an interview with Deadline, Downey was asked wether he thought the actor (who directed him in 2003’s The Singing Detective) should be able to star and direct major Hollywood films again. “He’s a fundamentally different guy,” began Downey.

“I think it was just the very worst aspects of somebody’s psyche being treated as though they were the blanket statement about a person. But honestly, we are talking about a competitive business and it all comes down to this: because he is so gifted as a storyteller and a director, I don’t know that he requires some sort of mass forgiveness.”

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Downey then went on to say he believed he and Gibson are “so similar in so many ways.” “He really, honestly is the first to admit his character defects and also is just a great, great collaborative guy,” said Downey.

“I always say too that if you want to judge a man or a woman then look at their kids. He has the healthiest, happiest, most productive kids you could ever meet or know, and I'm fortunate to be friendly with several of them. He did a lot right, and there's stuff he taught me about parenting that didn't sink in at the time but have proven to be true,” he added.

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The actor then said his friend “had changed” in recent years, “but at the same time he’s still Mel.”

But the interview took a more interesting turn when this question was put to Downey, "Marvel badly wants Iron Man 4 and you've said you aren't doing it. How about the idea you'll do that movie if Mel directs it?” To which Downey responded, “correct. Why not? That would be bananas.”

Mel Gibson Mel Gibson has been trying to rebuild his career in recent years

Last month Downey told Variety that he had “no plans” for a fourth Iron Man instalment. “There isn’t one in the pipe,” he said. “No, there’s no plan for a fourth Iron Man.”

The actor has however signed with Marvel and Disney for two Avengers sequels which will be coming to theatres summer 2015 and 2018. But as for Iron Man 4, the ball’s now in your court Marvel.