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RDJ discussing Less Than Zero, The Guardian (2003)

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RDJ discussing Less Than Zero, The Guardian (2003)

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In this interview Downey discusses how his drug addiction worsened while on the set of Less Than Zero and how as a result he became an exaggeration of the character in real life. This is just one of many examples as to how Downey and the characters he plays can often become indistinguishable from one another.

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After a public battle with his demons Robert Downey Jr is back, starring in the film version of The Singing Detective. Jon Wilde meets the clued-up star

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Gies, L. (2011) "Stars Behaving Badly, Feminist Media Studies",  Vol 11:3, pp. 347-361

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Gies, L. (2011) "Stars Behaving Badly, Feminist Media Studies",  Vol 11:3, pp. 347-361

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This extract (p.351) states that while celebrities stand out from the crowd they are also 'just like us.' Downey's role as a father and husband shows this ordinary side to him which is 'foundational of contemporary celebrity status'.

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While this source clearly recognizes him as a troubled star who is suffering, it questions whether he is responsible. Whatever people choose to believe greatly affects his overall star image as either a helpless man or spoiled star.

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This clip shows both changes and consistencies in RDJ's persona. While he appears bashful and somewhat insecure at times  (qualities we do not associate with his present day image) his familiar charismatic nature comes through here as he speaks eloquently and smiles charmingly throughout.

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FLASHBACK: Robert Downey Jr. is Incredibly Bashful in 1987 Interview: 'Actors are so Insecure'

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Sarah Jessica Parker on her relationship with RDJ (2018)

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Sarah Jessica Parker on her relationship with RDJ (2018)

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This interview provides an insight into the relationship of SJP AND RDJ during his troubles with addiction. Their rocky relationship may have contributed to the creation of his fractured and unstable star image at the time.

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Sarah Jessica Parker remembers dating Robert Downey Jr.

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Gies, L. (2011) "Stars Behaving Badly", Feminist Media Studies, Vol 11:3, pp. 347-361

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Gies, L. (2011) "Stars Behaving Badly", Feminist Media Studies, Vol 11:3, pp. 347-361

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This source states downfall is simply a part of the narrative of celebrity culture, which explains why the public may tolerate celebrity indiscretions. However, it also argues that there are boundaries as to how much can be tolerated. (p.357)

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Tony Stark plays a mentor to the teenage superhero, Spiderman. Here he is shown embodying the role of the father figure which he hadn't done in any previous Marvel films.

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Spiderman homecoming Peter and tony argument

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Robert Downey Jr. Shows Off His Epic Watch Collection, GQ (2016)

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Robert Downey Jr. Shows Off His Epic Watch Collection, GQ (2016)

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In this video Downey embodies all the traits found in his characters, he is shown as charming, charismatic and confident. There are also strong connotations of success as not only is he able to afford incredibly expensive watches but he handles them as if they cost little to nothing.

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Robert Downey Jr. Shows Off His Epic Watch Collection | GQ

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Downey's style also makes it harder to distinguish him apart from his Iron Man character. Similarly to Tony Stark, he is often pictured wearing suits, sunglasses and trainers in real life.

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RDJ as Tony Stark in The Avengers (2012)

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RDJ as Tony Stark in The Avengers (2012)

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Robert Downey Junior in Omaze Video (2016)

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Robert Downey Junior in Omaze Video (2016)

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Here, RDJ embodies his charismatic and comedic traits in order to shine light on good causes and encourage people to donate for the chance to meet him. The fact that he is made the incentive to encourage people to donate shows how great his star power is.

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Robert Downey Jr. Hops Around a Farm in a Bunny Suit // Omaze

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Downey's acts of goodwill present him as a selfless star who is willing to give back to society.

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Robert Downey Jr. Surprising Make-A-Wish Kids (2018)

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Robert Downey Jr. Surprising Make-A-Wish Kids (2018)

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This source presents Downey as kind hearted and humane who is mindful of what the Marvel Cinematic Universe and his character means to many young people.

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Avengers: Infinity War star Robert Downey Jr., the Iron Man of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, just inducted some very worthy young heroes from the "Avengers Academy" into the official Avengers ranks.

Downey was in Singapore as part of the Avengers: Infinity War press tour and surprised a group of Make-A-Wish children by showing up to make them official Avengers. He had them recite an Avengers oath and capped it off by calling them to assemble. You can watch the "ceremony" above.

If you want to take your own oath, here are the words Downey had the children recite:

"We the Avengers have banded together to protect and safeguard planet Earth's nations, resources, and children from all threats. That we shall not interfere in the growth of mankind, in meeting its rightful destiny. We will inspire and encourage every child who needs the strength and courage to battle wrongdoers and diseases. That we dedicate ourselves to the establishment, growth, and preservation of peace, liberty, equality, and justice under law. This is our solemn oath."

This is just one example of how powerful a symbol Downey has become through by having played Iron Man for the past decade in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Many fans expect his days as Tony Stark may be numbered, which is something that Avengers: Infinity War director Joe Russo commented on recently.

"There is nobody who can take over Iron Man from Robert," Russo said. "I don't think the audience would accept that. He never mentioned to us about leaving Iron Man, but it will happen at some point of time.

He can't play the character forever," Russo continued. "I am sure there are lots other things he wants to do in his career. But he loves playing the character, I know that, and we love working together. We will see where it goes from here."

Can you imagine the MCU without Robert Downey Jr.? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

Avengers: Infinity War releases on April 27th. Other upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe movies include Ant-Man and the Wasp on July 6th, Captain Marvel on March 8, 2019, the fourth Avengers movie on May 3, 2019, the sequel to Spider-Man: Homecoming on July 5, 2019, and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 in 2020.

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'Avengers: Infinity War' Star Robert Downey Jr. Surprises Make-A-Wish Kids

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Avengers: Infinity War star Robert Downey Jr., the Iron Man of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, just inducted some very worthy young heroes from the "Avengers Academy" into the official Avengers ranks.Downey was in Singapore as part of the Avengers: Infinity War press tour and surprised a group [...]

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Instagram post in support of ROHHAD (2019)

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Instagram post in support of ROHHAD (2019)

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Downey's posts often raise awareness about ROHHAD, a rare disease alongside other causes.

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View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Robert Downey Jr. Official (@robertdowneyjr)

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In the last few years Robert Downey Junior has played some father figure roles. This suggests that fatherhood has been incorporated so strongly into his star image it even affects the types of  roles he receives and the narratives  his characters.

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In the last few years Robert Downey Junior has played some father figure roles. This suggests that fatherhood has been incorporated so strongly into his star image it even affects the types of  roles he receives and the narratives  his characters.

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Vanity Fair photo shoot with son  (2014)

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Vanity Fair photo shoot with son  (2014)

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Him and his son sitting in an expensive vintage sports car, not only does this make reference towards his masculinity but to his success and riches.

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Indio Downey's drug arrest , MailOnline (2018) 

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Indio Downey's drug arrest , MailOnline (2018) 

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This article also represents RDJ as a supportive father figure. By relating to his sons drug arrest, he reveals a more human side which isn't as clear in his current star image made up mostly of success, power and confidence.

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'Congrats are in order!' Robert Downey Jr. pays tribute to newly-sober son Indio days after 22-year-old's drug charge is dismissed

He knows just how difficult it is kick alcohol and drugs.

So Robert Downey Jr. shared his pride at newly-sober son, Indio in an emotional Facebook tribute on Friday, just days after the 22-year-old's felony cocaine possession charge was dismissed after a stint in rehab.

'Having braved the crucible of addiction (and pleased the court), his ongoing commitment to recovery continues to inspire and amaze,' the Iron Man star wrote.

'Congrats are in order for my firstborn, and I'm proud to oblige,' the 50-year-old said.

Downey Jr also complimented the 22-year-old on his new music in the post that he shared on Instagram and Twitter.

On March 8, Indio's 2014 felony cocaine possession conviction was dismissed after he completed a 20-month rehab program.

'Unfortunately there's a genetic component to addiction and Indio has likely inherited it,' Robert told the New York Daily News of his son's arrest in 2014.

'Also, there is a lot of family support and understanding, and we're all determined to rally behind him and help him become the man he's capable of being,' he said at the time.

Robert shares Indio with his first wife, actress Deborah Falconer.

As for his son's music, the star said on Friday: 'As long as we can remember, Indio has been a musician at heart.

'In the last several years, with his band mate Ralph Alexander, I've witnessed their dedication, consistency, and determination to grow as artists.

'I've also made it my business to be of as little help as possible, as nepotism usually does more harm than good... Just for today, I'm gonna ease up on that.

'Trust me and give these fine young men a listen,' he concluded, adding a 30-second clip of the music video and links to Indio's music.

His son's band, The Dose, recently released a new song, Cold Hands, on iTunes.

Meanwhile, Robert will be back on the big screen as Iron Man in Captain America: Civil War, which opens on May 6.

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Robert Downey Jr. pays emotional tribute to his newly sober son Indio

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He knows just how difficult it is kick alcohol and drugs. So Robert Downey Jr. shared his pride at newly-sober son, Indio in an emotional Facebook tribute on Friday, just days after the 22-year-old's felony cocaine possession charge was dismissed after a stint in rehab.

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In this clip, his character is shown to be somewhat of an irresponsible father who breaks the rules (allowing his child to drive a car) while at the same time caring and compassionate towards his daughter. Interestingly, these traits have all featured in Downey's star image over the years.

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the judge 10 tastic clip 7 (It happens in stages)

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Interview with Downey discussing his daughter,  LIVE Kelly and Ryan (2016)

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Interview with Downey discussing his daughter,  LIVE Kelly and Ryan (2016)

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This interview where Robert Downey Junior talks about his kids and about his recent trip with his family is something many audience members can relate to, making him an identifiable star.

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Tom Holland & Robert Downey Junior compilation, YouTube (2018) 

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Tom Holland & Robert Downey Junior compilation, YouTube (2018) 

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This fan made compilation highlights the father/ son relationship between RDJ and his Avengers co star, Tom Holland. Suggesting that his father figure role seems to extend beyond caring for his kids and has been incorporated into his overall star image.

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Tom Holland and Robert Downey Jr. Father/Son Awesome & Funny Moments 2018

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Interview with Downey & wife, The Hollywood Reporter (2014)

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Interview with Downey & wife, The Hollywood Reporter (2014)

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This interview with his wife presents him as a supportive and cooperative husband. His stable relationship is a feature which contributes to the current strength and stability of his star image.

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Robert Downey Jr., Producer Wife Susan Reveal Their Quirky Relationship

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The fact Downey is now a father and husband helps in creating a star image which is both stable and relatable. It is the most ordinary part of his extraordinary image.

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Instagram post supporting sons band (2019)

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Instagram post supporting sons band (2019)

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A recurring theme within Downey's Instagram is support for his sons band. This is arguably one of the most relatable aspects of Downey's Star image as many of his fans will be able to identify with the notion of being a supportive parent.

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View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Robert Downey Jr. Official (@robertdowneyjr)

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Even when visiting Downey's Instagram, there are strong ties to his Iron Man character. Not only in promotional material for the latest Marvel Movie but he often posts pictures from set and memes regarding the character.

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Robert Downey Jr. Official (@robertdowneyjr) • Instagram photos and videos

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56M Followers, 8 Following, 440 Posts - See Instagram photos and videos from Robert Downey Jr. Official (@robertdowneyjr)

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While these photos shows a paternal and more human side to Robert Downey Junior's star image, he is still represented as being masculine and strong. For example, here him and his son are photographed playing with toy planes and cars.

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Robert Downey Junior on magazine cover, Esquire (2007)

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Robert Downey Junior on magazine cover, Esquire (2007)

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Similarly to the Vanity Fair cover Downey is represented as a dominant and powerful star- this time due to his stance and the fact he looks down at the camera. He is also presented as being serious and somber, as if his long career and past struggles have hardened and even wisened him.

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MacDonald, E. E. (2014) "Robert Downey Jr. from Brat to Icon: Essays on the Film Career", McFarland & Company Inc.

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MacDonald, E. E. (2014) "Robert Downey Jr. from Brat to Icon: Essays on the Film Career", McFarland & Company Inc.

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Downey's past struggle with addiction makes him and his star image more entwined with the character of Tony Stark.This source discusses the recurring theme of addictions in Iron Man 3 and how there are parallels to Downey's troubled past, as well as to his present 'sober and monogamous life'.

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In 2008 he starred in a satire, Tropic Thunder, very different to the comedies he previously starred in.The role itself was a lot more intricate and challenging than previous comedic roles, which earned him critical acclaim. This role reaffirmed his position as a serious actor dipping into comedy rather than vice versa.

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Tropic Thunder (5/10) Movie CLIP - Never Go Full Retard (2008) HD

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Robert Downey Junior on Graham Norton Show (2014)

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Robert Downey Junior on Graham Norton Show (2014)

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RDJ continues to make the audience laugh, however he makes much less effort to do so. He doesn't feel the need to talk excessively and keeps his stories short.  Not only does this demonsrate how his humour has changed but it represents him as an effortless star much less concerned in entertaining others.

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Stephen Fry Asks Downey Jr. To Name Newborn 'Uppy' - The Graham Norton Show

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Robert Downey Junior's ability to make people laugh has remained throughout his career. However as his star image has evolved, there have been notable changes in terms of the comedic roles he has taken on more recently and his sense of humor.

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Kachga, M.T (2014) "From James Frey to Greg Mortenson: ‘fake’ memoirs and the redemption narrative in contemporary US culture", Celebrity Studies, Vol 5:3, pp. 356-359

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Kachga, M.T (2014) "From James Frey to Greg Mortenson: ‘fake’ memoirs and the redemption narrative in contemporary US culture", Celebrity Studies, Vol 5:3, pp. 356-359

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This extract (p.357) from Kachgal's article discusses how the redemption narrative can resonate with audiences, particularly in the US. Providing an insight into why media sources tend to bring up Downey's past and recovery.

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Robert Downey Junior magazine cover, Vanity Fair, 

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Robert Downey Junior magazine cover, Vanity Fair, 

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The image of him dressed impeccably while raising his eyebrow at the audience represents lavishness and extravagance. The magazine states he is the highest paid actor in the world reinforcing his position as an extremely successful stars. He is not 'one of us' , instead he is in a league of his own.

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"Robert Downey Jr. is Iron Man", Entertainment (2006)

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"Robert Downey Jr. is Iron Man", Entertainment (2006)

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While there is a sense of disbelief within this article at Downey being cast for the role.  It argues how he is the perfect Tony Stark. Most notably because of his past struggles with drugs which may make his performance more authentic and place value on him as an actor.

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No, really, it makes sense, casting Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark, a.k.a. Iron Man. True, Downey isn't tall or...

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These comments provides an insight into the public's reaction. There is a strong sense of uncertainty, negativity and disbelief to his casting, sho how at this point in his career he wasn't perceived as someone who could take on a blockbuster role due to his past instability.

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The fact that in the early 2000s Downey's star image did not embody security or safety, two traits important to movie studios meant it was a struggle for Downey to secure the role of Iron Man. This article demonstrates how he was perceived as a risky casting choice and as a wild card.

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While Robert Downey Jr. is now easily one of the most beloved movie stars in the world, prior to taking on the role of Tony Stark in 2008's Iron Man the actor had a very different public image. Despite years and years of putting on fantastic performances in great films, the star was much better known for his drug and alcohol habits and as a result was considered by many in the studio system to be an extreme risk. Despite Downey Jr. cleaning up his act, this behavior continued all the way up until Marvel Studios began carving out plans for their Marvel Cinematic Universe - which is why Jon Favreau really had to go to bat for him in the casting process for .

Favreau opened up about casting Robert Downey Jr. during a recent interview with the Texas radio station 100.3 Jack FM, and revealed to the hosts that while Iron Man he brought up the idea of casting Downey Jr. in the lead role and was rejected multiple times. Despite all the negativity and wariness surrounding the suggestion, however, the director didn't take "no" for an answer and instead made it his responsibility to show the people at Marvel Studios that he knew exactly which actor he wanted to play the starring role. Said Favreau, "It was my job as a director to show that it was the best choice creatively...and now the Marvel Universe is the biggest franchise in film history."

So why exactly did Favreau insist on having Downey Jr. as his Iron Man? The answer to that question has two parts. One half of it was what Favreau says is his "really special ability" to see talent in other people. The other half, though, was the fact that the director simply saw far too many similarities between the journey the character takes in the film and what his actor friend had gone through during his time on the big screen.

"Everybody knew he was talented... Certainly by studying the Iron Man role and developing that script I realized that the character seemed to line-up with Robert in all the good and bad ways. And the story of Iron Man was really the story of Robert's career."

Of course, Jon Favreau was eventually able to convince the folks at Marvel Studios that Robert Downey Jr. was the perfect Tony Stark, and it turned out to be one of the greatest decisions in blockbuster history. Not including The Avengers, the Iron Man franchise has made over $2.4 billion at the global box office, and there's no denying that a great deal of that success comes from the magnetism and charisma of the franchise's main star. Explained Favreau in summation, "That was a big gamble on whether or not he was really serious about it... and now history has definitely proven that he was dead serious about it and now he is the biggest star in the world."

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Jon Favreau Details His Fight With Marvel Studios To Cast Robert Downey Jr. As Iron Man

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While Robert Downey Jr. is now easily one of the most beloved movie stars in the world, prior to taking on the role of Tony Stark in 2008's Iron Man the actor had a very different public image.

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Falk, B. (2010) "Robert Downey Jr: The Fall & Rise of the Comeback Kid" Pavilion Publishing

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Falk, B. (2010) "Robert Downey Jr: The Fall & Rise of the Comeback Kid" Pavilion Publishing

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This extract from the chapter 'Hollywood" discusses what Downey was like as an actor during his younger years. It helps to highlight how there was a shift in his star image from a professional and highly regarded actor to one associated with unreliability and riskiness.

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Robert Downey Junior on Letterman (1990)

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Robert Downey Junior on Letterman (1990)

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In this interview with a young Robert Downey Jr. he is very talkative and comedic, similarly to his SNL skits he makes jokes and does impressions throughout. The interview also discusses his SNL casting from 5 years ago which suggests that his star image was still strongly associated with comedy.

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His roles in Blockbuster films, most notably the Iron Man franchise has meant that he was the highest paid actor 3 years running, making him one of the most successful stars on the planet.

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HTC Advert featuring Robert Downey Junior (2013)

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HTC Advert featuring Robert Downey Junior (2013)

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Not only do companies recognise Downey's star power but they make use of the key traits which make up his star image. HTC decided to use Downey in one of their adverts where he is seen embodying the very same personality traits found in his characters to their advantage.

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HTC可以多千變萬化? 讓國際巨星小勞勃•道尼 來揭曉！#HTChange

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His character, Peter Highman is successful, witty, determined, confident, restrained.

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He plays the title role in Sherlock Holmes. Characteristics include wittiness, heroism, confidence,addictive behaviour.

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Plays the character of Iron Man/ Tony Stark. Characteristics include success, heroism, confidence, addictive behaviour, wittiness.

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Currently (and particularly by the younger generation), Robert Downey Junior is well known for playing leading roles in blockbuster movies.  His roles seem to align with the key components of his star image such as success, confidence, wittiness.

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Currently (and particularly by the younger generation), Robert Downey Junior is well known for playing leading roles in blockbuster movies.  His roles seem to align with the key components of his star image such as success, confidence, wittiness.

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"Iron Man to the rescue of HTC", Bloomberg news report, (2013)

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"Iron Man to the rescue of HTC", Bloomberg news report, (2013)

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A report which discusses RDJ's involvement in the HTC advert. Represents him as a hero who is saving the day for the struggling mobile company- becoming even more intertwined with his Iron Man character.

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'Iron Man' Robert Downey Jr. Comes to the Rescue of HTC

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Robert Downey Jr.'s roles in 80's teen comedies meant he became recognised as primarily a comedic actor who was also associated  the  'brat pack', an iconic staple to the movie culture of the 80's.

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Robert Downey Jr.'s roles in 80's teen comedies meant he became recognised as primarily a comedic actor who was also associated  the  'brat pack', an iconic staple to the movie culture of the 80's.

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"Robert Downey Jr: from lost cause to highest-paid Hollywood actor", The Guardian (2013)

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"Robert Downey Jr: from lost cause to highest-paid Hollywood actor", The Guardian (2013)

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There are many articles which discuss the transformation RDJ has gone through. Solidifying his position as a comeback star, his past is often discussed as a way of measuring his success and as a modern day example of the Alger myth.

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Robert Downey Jr: from lost cause to highest-paid Hollywood actor

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Ryan Gilbey: The charismatic star of the Iron Man trilogy earned $75m in the past year. Not bad for a drug addict the studios once shunned

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"Robert Downey Jr. Tops Forbes' List Of Top Earning Actors With $75m Take," Forbes (2014)

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"Robert Downey Jr. Tops Forbes' List Of Top Earning Actors With $75m Take," Forbes (2014)

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This article highlights his success through language such as 'reigning', representing him as more than an actor but a king.

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Hollywood is increasingly in the business of making movies with disposable actors -- performers who are almost interchangeable and easily replaced. The special effects and bombastic action sequences required for the modern blockbuster cost many millions of dollars. Any money studios can save by casting less-famous actors is money that can go to the bottom line. And if those actors can be easily swapped out in sequels, all the better. A disposable actor doesn't really have the leverage to demand a big pay hike.

If there's one actor who has proved himself in-disposable, it's Robert Downey Jr. The actor has made millions playing Iron Man and for the second year in a row, he tops FORBES' list of the Top Earning Actors. We estimate that Downey earned $75 million between June 2013 and June 2014, the same amount as he earned last year. This list measures only the men. We will have a separate list of the Top Earning Actresses.

Downey reigns as the highest paid man in Hollywood because at this point, it would be incredibly difficult for Marvel to continue making Iron Man and Avengers films without him. Marvel movies starring Downey have earned almost $4 billion at the global box office and millions more on home video, not to mention the millions the movies have generated in merchandise.

Disney, which owns Marvel, wants to keep that gravy train going for as long as it can and like it or not, that means paying Downey whatever he demands. The actor coyly held out during negotiations for the upcoming Avengers: Age of Ultron and secured more money than ever upfront for the film. The movie is sure to be a huge hit and he'll earn even more on the back end.

Downey's Hollywood clout (he ranks 10th overall on our Celebrity 100 list which measures a mix of money and fame) has given him the power to get smaller, more personal movies made too. He helped his friend Jon Favreau get the film Chef produced and appeared in a memorable cameo in the movie. Chef has earned $25 million so far at the global box office, not bad for a tiny film.

Downey isn't the only superhero on our list this year. Newcomer Chris Hemsworth, who plays Thor, didn't have the fame numbers to make it on the Celebrity 100 this year but he ranks 5th on our list of Top Earning Actors with $37 million. The Thor sequel, The Dark World, outearned the first Thor movie by $200 million so expect Hemsworth to be able to negotiate for more money in the inevitable Thor 3. When he's not playing a Norse God, Hemsworth is busy pursuing an Oscar. This year he'll star in films by prestige directors Michael Mann and Ron Howard who directed Hemsworth in Rush.

To compile our earnings estimates, we talk to agents, producers, lawyers and other in-the-know folks to figure out how much each celebrity earned from entertainment-related work between June 2013 and June 2014. We do not deduct for taxes, agent fees or the costs of being a celebrity.

Dwayne Johnson hasn't played a superhero yet but you could argue that's about to change with his newest film, Hercules. The former wrestler plays the hero in a film that picks up after the iconic 12 tasks have been completed. Johnson ranks second on our earnings list with an estimated $52 million mostly thanks to his work in movies like the Fast and Furious franchise. This will be the first time he's headlined a movie. He has another big action flick, San Andreas, lined up for next summer.

Bradley Cooper also gets a turn to play a superhero this year even if he'll be heard but not seen. Cooper is voicing Rocket Raccoon in the upcoming Marvel film Guardians of the Galaxy. Cooper earned an estimated $46 million last year thanks to his smart mix of blockbusters and prestige films. Cooper earned millions from The Hangover franchise but he also earns big from films like American Hustle. Cooper took a pay cut for the lower-budget film so when it earned $251 million at the global box office he got a nice piece of the profits (plus an Oscar nomination).

Rounding out our top five is Leonardo DiCaprio who ranks 4th with an estimated $39 million in earnings. DiCaprio is the rare actor who can earn $15 million and up for the kind of adult films that studios don't often make anymore. Like Downey in superhero movies though, DiCaprio is worth the money. Both The Great Gatsby and The Wolf of Wall Street did better than expected at the box office this year earning a combined $743 million at the global box office.
Follow me on Twitter at DorothyatForbes. Also on Forbes: Superheroes of the Celeb 100

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Robert Downey Jr. Tops Forbes' List Of Top Earning Actors With $75m Take

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Hollywood is increasingly in the business of making movies with disposable actors -- performers who are almost interchangeable and easily replaced. The special effects and bombastic action sequences required for the modern blockbuster cost many millions of dollars. Any money studios can save by casting less-famous actors is money that can go to the bottom line.

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Robert Downey Jr. is the highest paid actor of 2013, Hello! (2013)

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Robert Downey Jr. is the highest paid actor of 2013, Hello! (2013)

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This article attempts to make his achievement sound even more impressive by discussing his past to illustrate how far he has come- representing him as an inspirational star.

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Robert Downey Jr earned an estimated $75million (nearly £50million) last year, making him the highest paid actor in Hollywood.

Robert's massive earnings saw him top Forbes annual list of highest paid actors ahead ofChanning Tatum and Hugh Jackman who came second and third respectively.

Much like his millionaire alter-ego Tony Stark, it has been revealed that the Iron Man star is very well paid. But last year he did not even feature in the top 10 list. He has since overtaken the likes of Tom Cruise and Leonardo DiCaprio to the number one spot.

Thanks to his role as Iron Man in Avengers: Assemble, which took more than $1.5bn (nearly £1bn) last year, Forbes estimate his earnings to be $75million between June 2012 and June 2013. During this time he also put on his superhero suit again for the third film in the Iron Man franchise, which fared just as well at the box office, taking more than $1.2bn .

Robert said that he was honoured to be part of the Avengers project, even if he was part of the expensive sale of comic company Marvel to mass media conglomerate Disney. "I feel like I got sold to Disney for $4 billion dollars," he said jokingly to Screen Rant.

"It's been very humbling because I always realise that you're just kind of part of this thing, you know?" he said. "And I think the problems begin when any one person involved in particularly anything that's successful decides that they have some sort of ownership to it, because really, this is something that Stan Lee scratched down going on, what, 50 years ago now."

Robert has reinvented himself thanks to his roles as Tony Stark/Iron Man and Sherlock Holmes. He struggled for work after his Oscar-nominated portrayal of Charlie Chaplin in the 1992 film Chaplin. This was mostly due to his addiction to drugs and alcohol.

He has since overcome these problems to rise to the top of the A-list and the rich list in Hollywood.

Channing took the second place on the rich list, with a sizeable amount of his $60m earnings this year coming from the 2012 drama about a group of male strippers, Magic Mike.

Channing teamed up with Oscar-winning director Stephen Soderbergh to make the film, which was based on the actor's own experiences before he broke into Hollywood. Stephen and Channing financed the film themselves and from a budget of just $7million, the film went on to take $167million.

Hugh Jackman came in third place, earning an estimated $55million over the last year, after his roles in the film adaptation of the musical Les Miserables. Like Robert, he has also made his millions thanks to the success of a superhero franchise. Hugh has reprised his role as Wolverine in the X-Men films, with the latest, The Wolverine, out this month.

Securing fourth place on the list with $52million was Mark Wahlberg, who as well as starring in lewd comedy Ted, has been working behind the scenes as a producer on hit TV show Boardwalk Empire and upcoming films Prisoners and Cocaine Cowboys.

Dwayne Johnson came in fifth place after starring in the sixth installment of the Fast & Furious franchise and securing the titular role in the upcoming Hercules: The Thracian Wars, earning him $52million.

Leonardo DiCaprio fell from joint second place in 2012 to seventh place in 2013, but still brought in $39million for his roles in Django Unchained and The Great Gatsby.

Adam Sandler was joint second with Leo last year, but fell beneath him in seventh place in 2013's list, earning $37million.

Tom Cruise was last year's top earner, taking in $75million between July 2011 and July 2012 thanks to Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol and Rock of Ages. This year, his $35million earnings from Jack Reacher and Oblivion saw him take eighth place on the list.

In ninth and tenth place were action men Denzel Washington with $33million and Liam Neeson with $32million.

The list only named male actors. According to Forbes, last year's highest earning actress was Kristen Stewart, who made $35million between June 2011 and June 2012. That would place her in joint eighth place alongside Tom Cruise.

Top 10 highest paid actors

1. Robert Downey Jr $75 million
2. Channing Tatum $60 million
3. Hugh Jackman $55 million
4. Mark Wahlberg $52 million
5. Dwayne Johnson $46 million
6. Leonardo DiCaprio $39 million
7. Adam Sandler $37 million
8. Tom Cruise $35 million
9. Denzel Washington $33 million
10. Liam Neeson $32 million

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Robert Downey Jr is the highest paid actor of 2013

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Robert Downey Jr earned an estimated $75million (nearly £50million) last year, making him the highest paid actor in Hollywood. Robert's massive earnings saw him top Forbes annual list of highest paid actors ahead ofChanning Tatum and Hugh Jackman who came second and third respectively.

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"Robert Downey Jr. Is the World’s Highest Paid Actor", Variety (2015

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"Robert Downey Jr. Is the World’s Highest Paid Actor", Variety (2015

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This article highlights his success through language such as 'dripping in gold'.

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He may play Iron Man on the bigscreen, but Robert Downey Jr. is dripping in gold.

With an $80 million salary, Downey is the highest paid actor in the world for the third consecutive year and has the highest recorded annual payday of all time. Jackie Chan is a distant runner-up with $50 million.

Downey's "Avengers: Age of Ultron" reeled in $1.4 billion worldwide ($941.5 million of which came from international territories), and Downey is reportedly commanding $40 million for the upcoming "Captain America: Civil War."

Forbes' 2015 list of the world's highest-paid actors profiles thesps working solely in international movie industries. The 34 actors hail from seven countries and earned a combined $941 million in the last fiscal year.

Six of the top 10 stars are from the U.S., including the third highest earner, Vin Diesel, who hauled $47 million thanks to "Furious 7." The last installment of the hit franchise grossed a record-breaking $1.5 billion worldwide ($1.2 billion of which came from foreign markets). There are also three Bollywood A-listers in Forbes' top grouping.

Bradley Cooper came in at No. 4 with $41.5 million. Cooper starred in and co-produced Clint Eastwood's Iraq War drama "American Sniper" this year.

Despite a recent slew of flops, "Pixels" star Adam Sandler ranked in at No. 5 with $41 million. He has four movies on the way through an exclusive deal with Netflix.

Tom Cruise cruised into sixth with a $40 million payday, thanks to upfront fees for "Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation" and last year's "Edge of Tomorrow." Cruise reportedly earned $40 million from 2012's "Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol," which grossed $694.7 million worldwide.

Mark Wahlberg rounds out the top 10 with $32 million, riding high from "Ted 2," which brought in $168 million, and 2012's "Ted," which made $549 million.

Here's the top 10 list:

1. Robert Downey Jr.: $80 million
2. Jackie Chan: $50 million
3. Vin Diesel: $47 million
4. Bradley Cooper: $41.5 million
5. Adam Sandler: $41 million
6. Tom Cruise: $40 million
7. Amitabh Bachchan: $33.5 million
7. Salman Khan: $33.5 million
9. Akshay Kumar: $32.5 million
10. Mark Wahlberg: $32 million

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Robert Downey Jr. Is the World's Highest Paid Actor

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He may play Iron Man on the bigscreen, but Robert Downey Jr. is dripping in gold. With an $80 million salary, Downey is the highest paid actor in the world for the third consecutive year and has the highest recorded annual payday of all time. Jackie Chan is a distant runner-up with $50 million.

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Multiple mug shots of Robert Downey JR (1999-2001)

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Multiple mug shots of Robert Downey JR (1999-2001)

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The fact Robert Downey Jr has multiple mug shots shows how he was always running into trouble with the law, reinforcing his position as a troubled star over an extended period of time. Interestingly, his expressions in these mugshots (particularly the first) also seem to reinforce the cheeky and charming side of Downey's star image audiences are still familiar with today.

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'Downey arrested for trespassing', Daily news (1996)

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'Downey arrested for trespassing', Daily news (1996)

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This article which describes Downey's 'Goldilocks' moment did great damage to his star image. The whole incident presented him as an out of control and bizarre individual.

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DOWNEY ARRESTED FOR TRESPASSING. - Free Online Library

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Free Online Library: DOWNEY ARRESTED FOR TRESPASSING.(News) by "Daily News (Los Angeles, CA)"; News, opinion and commentary General interest

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Robert Downey Jr. storms out of Interview (2015)

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Robert Downey Jr. storms out of Interview (2015)

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This promotional interview for Downey's latest film shows him becoming irritated by questions of his past. By the end of the interview he walks out mid question which shows him as a dominant star who recognises that his star image is now secure enough to allow him to walk out of the interview and face little to no backlash.

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Robert Downey Jr. storms out of interview

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CNN Report on Robert Downey Jr's Drug Addiction (2000)

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CNN Report on Robert Downey Jr's Drug Addiction (2000)

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This CNN report which shows Downey in court does great damage to his star image. While he is still famous, his fame is no longer enough to allow him to escape consequences, resulting in him being perceived as somewhat ordinary.

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One of Downey's first films where he played a loud, confident and obnoxious bully.

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Weird Science (8/12) Movie CLIP - Slush From Above (1985) HD

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This source highlights how well RDJ was able to embody the qualities of his character in order to win an award. The speech itself represents Downey as confident as he continues to make the audience laugh, this time through a sarcastic sense of humour.

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Robert Downey Jr.-Golden Globe Awards-best actor

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Downey's first Academy Award nomination  for Chaplin (1992) contributed in elevating his position from celebrity to  star as he was nominated alongside many other well known distinguished actors.

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Ferguson K.L. (2016) "Eighties People", Palgrave Macmillan, New York

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Ferguson K.L. (2016) "Eighties People", Palgrave Macmillan, New York

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The brat pack describes a group of young actors from the 80's who featured in coming-of-age films. These extracts from the book "Eighties People' discuss how it also characterized the young actors 'you can't keep straight'. Through RDJ's film roles and personal life during this time we can see him conforming to Hollywood's' Brat Pack.

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Less than Zero Review, The New York Times (1987)

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Less than Zero Review, The New York Times (1987)

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"In addition, Mr. Downey gives a performance that is desperately moving, with the kind of emotion that comes as a real surprise in these surroundings"

This positive review of Downey is an example of how he was perceived as a talented actor within the industry.

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While still fulfilling the 'brat pack' nickname Downey branched out to a less comedic role in 'Less than Zero' and this earned him critical acclaim. It allowed him to be recognized as a gifted actor who could branch out of comedy and take on more serious and complex roles.

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"Less Than Zero (1987)" Theatrical Trailer #1

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A comedy where Downey's character, Jack Jericho is charming, smooth, funny and confident.

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Robert Downey Junior & Saturday Night Live (1985)

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Robert Downey Junior & Saturday Night Live (1985)

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RDJ was part of the SNL cast in 1985 taking part in various comedic skits which resulted in him being recognized primarily as a comedic actor. The humour of the skits he features in are screwball, hyperbolic and juvenile.

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Robert Downey Junior/Tony Stark YouTube compilation (2018)

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Robert Downey Junior/Tony Stark YouTube compilation (2018)

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Even fans recognise the similarities between Downey and Tony Stark. This compilation makes the point that these two personalities are impossible to distinguish from one another. Tony Stark is not a character he plays, instead he is Tony Stark.

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TONY STARK ACTING LIKE ROBERT DOWNEY JR  (well he is basically him)