Robert Downey Jr.'s Success and Achievements in Timeline

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of Robert Downey Jr..

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

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.

2003: Gibson pays Downey's insurance bond for The Singing Detective

In 2003, Mel Gibson paid Robert Downey Jr.'s insurance bond for the film 'The Singing Detective', paving the way for Downey's comeback to mainstream films.

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November 2008: The Soloist release delayed and touted as award contender

In November 2008, Paramount Pictures delayed the release of 'The Soloist', with critics mentioning it as a possible Academy Award candidate. Downey received an Academy Award nomination for Tropic Thunder for the 2008 release year.

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2008: Downey stars in Iron Man and Tropic Thunder

In 2008, Robert Downey Jr. starred in two commercially and critically successful films, 'Iron Man' and 'Tropic Thunder', marking a turning point in his career.

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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.

2013: Highest-Paid Actor by Forbes

Robert Downey Jr. was named Hollywood's highest-paid actor by Forbes starting in 2013.

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: Highest-Paid Actor by Forbes

Robert Downey Jr. was named Hollywood's highest-paid actor by Forbes until 2015.

2023: Downey appears in Oppenheimer and Downey's Dream Cars

In 2023, Robert Downey Jr. portrayed Lewis Strauss in Christopher Nolan's 'Oppenheimer', earning critical acclaim and several awards, and he hosted the television series 'Downey's Dream Cars', where he converted his cars to electric.

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