https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi The Star image of Robert Downey Jr. en-us 2019-03-04 17:32:33 UTC 2025-09-24 11:27:20 UTC hello@padlet.com 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/337590359 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.]]> 2019-03-04 18:04:33 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/337590359 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/338808490 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.]]> 2019-03-07 12:05:56 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/338808490 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/338839768 A comedy where Downey's character, Jack Jericho is charming, smooth, funny and confident.]]> 2019-03-07 13:38:46 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/338839768 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/338853799 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.]]> 2019-03-07 14:06:16 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/338853799 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/338857314 "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.]]> 2019-03-07 14:12:36 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/338857314 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339297007 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. ]]> 2019-03-08 14:06:38 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339297007 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339313167 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.]]> 2019-03-08 14:35:42 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339313167 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339324516 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.]]> 2019-03-08 14:57:09 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339324516 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339342774 One of Downey's first films where he played a loud, confident and obnoxious bully.]]> 2019-03-08 15:30:15 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339342774 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339390725 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.]]> 2019-03-08 17:10:28 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339390725 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339391705 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.]]> 2019-03-08 17:12:36 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339391705 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339399265 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.]]> 2019-03-08 17:29:50 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339399265 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339400905 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.]]> 2019-03-08 17:33:33 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339400905 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339660342 This article highlights his success through language such as 'dripping in gold'.]]> 2019-03-10 11:31:32 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339660342 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339660865 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.]]> 2019-03-10 11:37:13 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339660865 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339661011 This article highlights his success through language such as 'reigning', representing him as more than an actor but a king.]]> 2019-03-10 11:38:15 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339661011 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339661383 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.]]> 2019-03-10 11:42:27 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339661383 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339663810 2019-03-10 12:04:43 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339663810 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339668096 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.]]> 2019-03-10 12:48:06 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339668096 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339668614 2019-03-10 12:53:16 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339668614 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339669680 Plays the character of Iron Man/ Tony Stark. Characteristics include success, heroism, confidence, addictive behaviour, wittiness.]]> 2019-03-10 13:02:34 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339669680 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339701278 2019-03-10 16:58:30 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339701278 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339711366 He plays the title role in Sherlock Holmes. Characteristics include wittiness, heroism, confidence,addictive behaviour.]]> 2019-03-10 17:59:26 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339711366 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339711698 His character, Peter Highman is successful, witty, determined, confident, restrained.]]> 2019-03-10 18:01:18 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339711698 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339714957 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.]]> 2019-03-10 18:21:31 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339714957 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339716986 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.]]> 2019-03-10 18:35:09 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339716986 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339720051 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.]]> 2019-03-10 18:54:55 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339720051 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339723111 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.]]> 2019-03-10 19:15:31 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339723111 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339723174 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.

]]> 2019-03-10 19:15:57 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339723174 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339741554 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.]]> 2019-03-10 21:17:37 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339741554 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339746838 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.]]> 2019-03-10 21:57:51 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339746838 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339747786 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.]]> 2019-03-10 22:06:46 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/339747786 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/340354368 2019-03-12 11:57:42 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/340354368 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/340357593 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.]]> 2019-03-12 12:06:53 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/340357593 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/340637263 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.]]> 2019-03-12 21:15:01 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/340637263 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/340637663 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.]]> 2019-03-12 21:16:45 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/340637663 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/340637789 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.]]> 2019-03-12 21:17:26 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/340637789 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341252271 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'.]]> 2019-03-14 11:07:54 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341252271 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341346671 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.]]> 2019-03-14 14:26:46 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341346671 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341356001 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.]]> 2019-03-14 14:41:59 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341356001 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341433979 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.]]> 2019-03-14 16:55:47 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341433979 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341439547 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.]]> 2019-03-14 17:05:26 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341439547 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341442948 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.]]> 2019-03-14 17:11:34 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341442948 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341444635 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.]]> 2019-03-14 17:15:00 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341444635 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341446649 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.]]> 2019-03-14 17:18:38 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341446649 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341447680 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. ]]> 2019-03-14 17:20:30 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341447680 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341451538 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.]]> 2019-03-14 17:27:03 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341451538 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341456484 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.]]> 2019-03-14 17:34:53 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341456484 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341461152 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.]]> 2019-03-14 17:42:46 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341461152 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341474463 2019-03-14 18:05:25 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341474463 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341476346 2019-03-14 18:08:51 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341476346 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341487968 Downey's posts often raise awareness about ROHHAD, a rare disease alongside other causes. ]]> 2019-03-14 18:30:44 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341487968 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341499224 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.]]> 2019-03-14 18:54:59 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341499224 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341499524 Downey's acts of goodwill present him as a selfless star who is willing to give back to society. ]]> 2019-03-14 18:55:41 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341499524 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341544011 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.]]> 2019-03-14 21:13:52 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341544011 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341548561 2019-03-14 21:34:01 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341548561 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341549339 2019-03-14 21:37:39 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341549339 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341549467 2019-03-14 21:38:26 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341549467 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341744060 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.]]> 2019-03-15 13:28:44 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341744060 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341757111 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.]]> 2019-03-15 13:56:42 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341757111 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341798735 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.]]> 2019-03-15 15:12:10 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341798735 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341808465 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)]]> 2019-03-15 15:31:10 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341808465 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341812691 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.]]> 2019-03-15 15:39:40 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341812691 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341827876 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.]]> 2019-03-15 16:10:19 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/341827876 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/342002689 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.]]> 2019-03-16 13:03:24 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/342002689 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/342003460 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'.]]> 2019-03-16 13:15:14 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/342003460 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/343106625 2019-03-19 22:22:59 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/343106625 201118110 https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/343311623 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. ]]> 2019-03-20 13:28:47 UTC https://padlet.com/201118110/zcyzeec0jgyi/wish/343311623