The only thing that separates Robert Downey Jr. from Tony Stark is the latter’s Iron Man suit. Like his on-screen Iron Man persona, the actor himself is sarcastic, quick-witted, funny, and always chooses the right words to describe what’s going on in his mind. Well, he did the same thing to describe how he picks his projects.
While it’s unclear where this actor gets his captivating charm from, it’s pretty well-known that he has faced hardships in life. But his determination to put his struggles behind him, Robert Downey Jr. Has managed to stay sober since 2003. Today, the actor is renowned for his work ethic and unparalleled confidence, which never fails to impress his fans across the globe.
Robert Downey Jr. Is Very Choosey About His Projects
Robert Downey Jr. once mentioned that he’s become more choosey when it comes to picking his next project, a different approach to his previous style of not planning his roles beforehand. The actor said that he used to turn down scripts with disdain, often wondering why anyone would send him such subpar material to work with.
Robert Downey Jr. said (via IMDB)
“I’ve become a picky little bitch. I’ve never bothered to plan projects before. I just used to throw the script across the room and say, “Why do they keep sending me this horseshit?” And then I’d start rehearsals two weeks later.”
After spending decades in the industry and hitting rock bottom multiple times, including waking up in unfamiliar places and spending time in jail, Robert Downey Jr. has reached a point where he has raked in fat paychecks for playing a superhero. That has earned the right and the ability to express himself without any hesitation.
Also Read: One Marvel Star Surprisingly Has Done More MCU Movies Than Robert Downey Jr. and Chris Evans
Robert Downey Jr. Turned Down Some Major Roles
Given his extensive career and his status as one of the leading men in the industry, it is pretty obvious that the actor has turned down many major roles. Many actors were in the running for the role of Pete “Maverick” Mitchell in the classic action film Top Gun. Robert Downey Jr. was also among the actors who could’ve played the fight pilot. Reportedly, Downey almost landed the iconic role, which makes it more ironic as Tom Cruise later rejected the role of Tony Stark.
The original Batman film, directed by Tim Burton, had shortlisted unconventional choices for the lead role. Robert Downey Jr. was among those actors. However, that never came to fruition. Later, Downey almost landed the lead role in Burton’s Edward Scissorhands, meaning he let go of two opportunities to play iconic characters. However, Robert Downey Jr.’s powerful roles overpower the roles he turned down.
