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 globally. He was named one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people in 2008 and was Forbes' highest-paid actor from 2013-2015. Downey Jr. has received numerous awards, including a Golden Globe, BAFTA, and Academy Award, along with multiple Primetime Emmy nominations, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.

Sections (5)

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

April 2001: Downey's Last Arrest Leads to Recovery Decision

In April 2001, after his last arrest, facing potential incarceration or rehab, Downey decided he could no longer continue his pattern of substance abuse and committed to seeking help for his addiction.

August 2001: Downey Lands Post-Rehabilitation Acting Job

In August 2001, Downey secured his first acting role after rehab, lip-syncing in the music video for Elton John's "I Want Love."

July 2003: Became Drug-Free

In July 2003, Robert Downey Jr. says he has been drug-free since this time, crediting his wife, family, therapy, meditation, recovery programs, yoga, and Wing Chun kung fu.

2003: Mel Gibson Pays Downey's Insurance Bond for The Singing Detective

In 2003, Mel Gibson paid Downey's insurance bond for the film "The Singing Detective", paving the way for his return to the big screen.

November 2004: Downey Discusses Recovery with Oprah Winfrey

In November 2004, Downey spoke with Oprah Winfrey about his past struggles with addiction and his decision to seek help after facing job loss and separation from his wife.

May 3, 2008: "Iron Man" Released Worldwide to Rave Reviews

On May 3, 2008, "Iron Man" was released worldwide, grossing over $585 million and receiving rave reviews, particularly for Downey's performance.

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August 13, 2008: "Tropic Thunder" Released to Positive Reviews

On August 13, 2008, "Tropic Thunder" was released in the United States and received good reviews, earning US$26 million in its opening weekend.

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2008: Downey Stars in Blockbuster Films "Iron Man" and "Tropic Thunder"

In 2008, Downey starred in the critically and commercially successful films "Iron Man" and "Tropic Thunder", marking his entry into blockbuster films.

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December 25, 2009: "Sherlock Holmes" Released

On December 25, 2009, "Sherlock Holmes" was released, setting box office records for a Christmas Day release.

May 2010: "Iron Man 2" Released

In May 2010, Downey returned as Tony Stark in "Iron Man 2," which grossed over $623 million worldwide.

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November 2010: "Due Date" Released

In November 2010, "Due Date," a comedy road film starring Downey, was released and grossed over $211 million worldwide.

October 2011: Gibson Presents Downey with American Cinematheque Award

In October 2011, Mel Gibson presented Robert Downey Jr. with his award for his life's work at the 25th American Cinematheque Awards.

2012: Downey Reprises Role as Tony Stark in "The Avengers"

In 2012, Downey reprised his role as Tony Stark in "The Avengers," which became the third highest-grossing film of all time.

2013: Named Hollywood's Highest-Paid Actor by Forbes

From 2013 to 2015, Robert Downey Jr. was named Hollywood's highest-paid actor by Forbes.

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.

2015: Named Hollywood's Highest-Paid Actor by Forbes

From 2013 to 2015, Robert Downey Jr. was named Hollywood's highest-paid actor by Forbes.

2023: Downey Stars in "Oppenheimer" and Hosts "Downey's Dream Cars"

In 2023, Downey portrayed Lewis Strauss in Christopher Nolan's "Oppenheimer," receiving critical acclaim and several awards. He also hosted the television series "Downey's Dream Cars", where he and his team converted gas cars to electric.