10 iconic roles played by Robert Downey Jr.

Jul 29, 2024

By: Ankush Banerjee

Credit: Walt Disney

A legend years in the making

Robert Downey Jr. has become one of Hollywood's most recognisable and beloved actors, known for his versatility and charismatic screen presence. Over the years, he has delivered a number of iconic performances that have left a lasting impact on audiences.

Credit: @robertdowneyjr/via X

Return to the MCU?

There have been recent rumours suggesting that Robert Downey Jr. might join the Marvel Cinematic Universe again, this time as the iconic villain Doctor Doom. As speculations ripen, let’s look at some of the most iconic roles reprised by the man over the years!

Credit: @robertdowneyjr/via X

​10. Peter Highman (Due Date) — 2010​

Downey's comedic talents shone through as a high-strung architect on a road trip with an eccentric companion in this comedy

Credit: Warner Bros.

​9. Lewis Strauss (Oppenheimer) — 2023​

In Christopher Nolan's biopic, Downey portrayed Lewis Strauss, adding a compelling layer to the historical narrative with his nuanced performance.

Credit: Universal Pictures

​8. Julian Wells (Less Than Zero) — 1987​

One of Downey's early standout performances, where he played a wealthy drug addict in this adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis' novel.

Credit: Twentieth Century Fox

​7. Paul Avery (Zodiac) — 2007​

Playing a real-life journalist investigating the Zodiac killer, Downey brought depth and intensity to the role.

Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

​6. Hank Palmer (The Judge) — 2014​

His role as a big-city lawyer returning to his hometown to defend his estranged father showcased Downey's dramatic range.

Credit: Warner Bros.

​5. Dr. John Dolittle (Dolittle) — 2020​

Downey brought the legendary veterinarian who can talk to animals to life with his whimsical and adventurous portrayal in this family-friendly film.

Credit: Universal Pictures

​4. Kirk Lazarus (Tropic Thunder) — 2008​

Playing an Australian method actor who undergoes a controversial transformation, Downey received an Oscar nomination for his comedic brilliance.

Credit: Dreamworks Pictures

​3. Charlie Chaplin (Chaplin) — 1992​

Downey's transformative performance in this biopic earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

Credit: Richard Attenborough

​2. Sherlock Holmes (Sherlock Holmes Series) — 2009, 2011​

His sharp and eccentric take on Arthur Conan Doyle's legendary detective earned him critical acclaim and a Golden Globe award.

Credit: Warner Bros Pictures

​1. Tony Stark/Iron Man (Marvel Cinematic Universe) — 2008-2019​

Downey's portrayal of the genius billionaire playboy philanthropist Tony Stark launched the MCU and made Iron Man a household name.

Credit: Walt Disney Studios

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