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Robert Downey, Jr., son of the avid filmmaker Robert Downey, Sr., is an American actor famous for his brilliant acting in ‘Chaplin’, quirky version of ‘Tony Stark’ in ‘Iron Man’ and decades of living under the shadow of drug abuse and breaching of law. Downey was involved in professional acting and drugs consumption from a very young age, owing to his highly creative and addicted father. He has spent his life in and out of tabloids, rehabilitation centers and prisons and yet, his acting skills and talent has given him the status of one of the most cherished actors. His fans love him for the dark and strong characters that he has played from time to time in movies like: ‘Sherlock Holmes’, ‘Tropical Thunder’, etc. and also for his almost superhero like ability to bring himself out from the rut of drugs and alcohol binging that he had been a part of since childhood. Downey has been recognized for his contribution to cinema with awards like Golden Globe, BAFTA and Emmy. He is also the co-owner of the production company ‘Team Downey’, with his wife Susan Levin.
Childhood & Early Life
Robert Downey, Jr. was born on April 4, 1965 in Manhattan, New York, to Robert Downey, Sr. and Elsie. His father is a well-known film maker, actor, writer, director and his mother was an actress. From a very young age, Downey was involved in acting.
He did his first appearance in his father’s movie ‘Pound’, in which he played the role of a puppy. Downey grew up around drugs as his father was a drug addict. He started taking marijuana at the tender age of 6.
At the age of 7, he made an appearance in the movie called ‘Greaser’s Palace’ and later went to live in England to study classical ballet. He attended the Stagedoor Manor Performing Arts Training Center in New York.
In 1978, at the age of 13, Downey’s parents got divorced and he went to California to live with his father. He dropped out of school in the pursuit of professional acting. He was still struggling with his drug addiction.
Major Works
Downey’s ‘Chaplin’ (1992) is one of his biggest achievements until now. Richard Attenborough, the director of the movie, got him trained in many aspects that were necessary for a true portrayal of Chaplin, like, learning how to play violin, etc.
Joining the cast of American television mini-series ‘Ally McBeal’, after serving his time in the prison, in 2000, was a great professional move from Downey’s side. He won many accolades for his role in the series.
Downey’s characterization of ‘Tony Stark’ in ‘Iron Man (2008)’, ‘Iron Man 2 (2010)’ and ‘Iron Man 3 (2013), has made him into a huge blockbuster phenomena. His quirky and nonchalant personality in real life reflects in ‘Tony Stark’ which has made it so successful.
Source: https://www.thefamouspeople.com/profiles/robert-downey-jr-5102.php
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