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Robert Downey Jr and Tom Holland surprise fan who protected sister from dog attack

Tom Holland and Robert Downey Jr are the latest Marvel stars to commend a young superhero fan who saved his sister from being mauled by a dog.

Bridger Walker, six, noticed a dog was about to attack his younger sister so stepped in to protect her, receiving several bites to his face and head that ended up requiring 90 stitches.

His story went viral after his aunt shared details of the incident on Instagram and asked some of Bridger’s favourite actors to offer encouragement to the brave child.

According to this aunt, Bridger, from Wyoming in the US, had said after the incident: “If someone was going to die, I thought it should be me.”

Robert Downey Jr. and Tom Holland attend the "Dolittle" special screening at Cineworld Leicester Square on January 25, 2020 in London, England. (Photo by Karwai Tang/WireImage)
Robert Downey Jr. and Tom Holland attend a Dolittle screening at Cineworld Leicester Square, London, January 25, 2020. (Photo by Karwai Tang/WireImage)

Captain America star Chris Evans was among the first to respond, offering to send Bridger one of his famous character’s shields.

But he has now received similar messages from Iron Man Downey Jr and Spider-Man Holland.

Read more: Robert Downey Jr. reflects on playing Iron Man

In a video message, Downey Jr said: “Bridger, you’re a rockstar. I hear Captain America sent a shield your way. I’m going to do one better, you call me on your next birthday. I’ve got something special for you.”

Holland spoke to Bridger, who was dressed in a Spider-Man outfit, via a video call. He said: “I want to say you are so brave, mate.

“We are all so proud of you, and your little sister is so lucky to have someone like you.

“We’re going to be shooting ‘Spider-Man 3’ and if you ever want to come to set and hang out and see the Spider-Man suit up close, you’re always welcome.”

Hulk star Mark Ruffalo has also commented on the initial post on Instagram.

He wrote: “People who put the well-beings of others in front of themselves are the most heroic and thoughtful people I know. I truly respect and admire your courage and your heart.

“Real courage isn’t dominating people or fighting against people or walking around like a tough guy. Real courage is knowing what is right to do and doing it even when it might end up hurting you somehow. You are more of man than many, many I have seen or known.”