Has Tony Stark’s secretary been cast in Favreau’s Iron Man? AICN says yes, but then we’ve heard that before.

They say the part has gone to semi-retired Gwyneth Paltrow. A few months ago it was Rachel McAdams being touted as a lock for the part. Of the two, I’d much rather see McAdams. When I think of Paltrow playing a part like this, all I can think of is her character in Sky Captain. She was great there, but I’m not sure I want more of that in Iron Man.

Still, the number of big names that Iron Man has managed to grab is really impressive. Add Paltrow as Pepper Potts to Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark and Terrence Howard as Jim Rhodes. Three major celebs yes, but also three pretty well respected actors too. With a cast like that Iron Man really could be the first superhero movie to win a legitimate Oscar. By legitimate I mean more than just some give up technical award.

UPDATE! Variety has now confirmed the story. Either that or they just copy/pasted AICN's story, reported it as fact, and gave them no credit for it. Wouldn't be the first time they've done that.