Childhood and Education Journey of Robert Downey Jr. in Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Robert Downey Jr., highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Robert Downey Jr. (RDJ) is a highly successful American actor, with his films grossing over $14 billion worldwide. He was recognized as one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people in 2008 and was Forbes' highest-paid actor from 2013-2015. Downey Jr. has received prestigious awards, including an Academy Award, an Emmy Award, three Golden Globe Awards, two BAFTA Awards, and three Screen Actors Guild Awards, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in Hollywood.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

September 1993: Birth of Son

In September 1993, Robert Downey Jr. and Deborah Falconer had their son.

1999: Downey seeks psychiatric advice while at Corcoran II

In 1999, while at Corcoran II, Robert Downey Jr. wrote a letter to psychiatrist Dr. Manijeh Nikakhtar seeking advice on his condition, revealing that he hadn't received a complete psychiatric evaluation and expressing his belief that he might be bipolar.

April 2001: Downey's last arrest and decision to seek help

In April 2001, after his last arrest, Robert Downey Jr. faced potential prison time or court-ordered rehab and decided to commit to recovery, acknowledging his inability to continue his cycle of addiction.

July 2003: Became Drug-Free

Robert Downey Jr. states he has been drug-free since July 2003, crediting his wife, family, therapy, and various practices for his sobriety.

March 2007: Downey denies bipolar diagnosis in Esquire article

In March 2007, Robert Downey Jr. addressed the rumors of being bipolar in an Esquire article, denying any formal diagnosis and attributing past skewed assessments to his substance abuse issues.

March 2008: Stiller screens Tropic Thunder to African Americans

In March 2008, Ben Stiller screened a rough cut of 'Tropic Thunder' to African Americans, who embraced it, easing concerns about the film's portrayal of insufferable actors.

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2008: Downey accepts Sherlock Holmes role

In 2008, after Iron Man, Robert Downey Jr. accepted the role of Sherlock Holmes in Guy Ritchie's adaptation.

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2008: Political Views Changed by Prison

In a 2008 interview, Robert Downey Jr. stated that his time in prison changed his political point of view, making him less liberal.

October 2011: Honored at American Cinematheque Awards

In October 2011, Robert Downey Jr. was honored at the 25th American Cinematheque Awards and chose Mel Gibson to present him with the award.

February 2012: Birth of Son

In February 2012, Robert Downey Jr. and Susan Downey had their first child, a son.

November 2014: Birth of Daughter

In November 2014, Robert Downey Jr. and Susan Downey had their second child, a daughter.

2014: Described Religious Beliefs as Jewish Buddhist

In 2014, Robert Downey Jr. described his religious beliefs as "Jewish Buddhist".

December 2015: Pardoned by Governor of California

In December 2015, Robert Downey Jr. was pardoned by the Governor of California, Jerry Brown, for his prior drug offenses, allowing him to serve on a jury.

2015: Downey Denied Republican Beliefs

In a 2015 interview promoting Avengers: Age of Ultron, Robert Downey Jr. denied holding any steadfast political beliefs as Republican, liberal, or Democrat.

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January 2020: Announced Vegan Diet Adoption

In January 2020, during the promotion of his film Dolittle, Robert Downey Jr. announced that he had adopted a vegan diet in response to the climate crisis and the opening of Footprint Coalition.