Robert Downey Jr. has had a very impressive and storied career which has been highlighted by iconic roles in both dramatic and action film projects. However his history includes time working on the iconic series Saturday Night Live (SNL).
Robert Downey Jr's Journey to SNL
Downey was briefly a cast member on SNL for their 11th season in 1985-1986 when he was only 20 years old. He was noted in SNL50 docuseries where he explained the experience helped him realize what he wasn’t as an actor, noting this time for growth was just as meaningful as more positive and successful projects.
A Friendship that Led to SNL
Downey’s career in SNL was directly tied to his friendship with Anthony Michael Hall who mentioned that he wanted to take his chances there which also included giving Downey the chance to audition. This opportunity highlights a bond that lasted through time showing even in a light moment of support.
SNL's Season 11
Season 11 of SNL has often been labeled as the weakest season in the show’s long running history. There were issues between the creative teams and cast but those problems still brought together a crew of now memorable people like Damon Wayans, Randy Quaid and Joan Cusack. This season became something of a pivot for how the series moved forward.
The Cast Changes
This particular time was known to be a transitional phase that led to many cast members getting replaced prior to the following season. Lorne Michaels noted that he had gone too young at this point and felt it was time to clean house. This gave those involved an understanding of how the show would choose to handle a different future.
What Downey Learned at SNL
While Downey’s experience was a short time he stated that he gained a high amount of understanding and growth about what style he does and does not embody during that period. He may have come out not the strongest character player or impressionist. This gave a key element to the success he would later gain by understanding his place as a performer. He also noted even if it is not the best material, to get those 90 minutes to express himself was memorable.
SNL's Continued Impact
SNL50 Beyond Saturday Night now on peacock shows behind the scene issues with the show’s production during season 11. Also included was many insights from previous talent including interviews and memories from others who also worked on the show in other parts.
Downey's Support for Aspiring Actors
After his experience and successes, RDJ is well known as an ally of young stars and those up and coming within the acting world. His wife mentions that he has always shown strong encouragement with his resources which shows growth from his past to be an example in the acting world.
Helping Hands
He openly reaches out to those that inspire him as well as offering advice and support for those that struggle in their journeys. His ability to mentor is well known by others within the acting community by encouraging and pushing others towards greatness.
The Success of RDJ After SNL
Although that part of his life at SNL might be rocky the remainder of his career only had upward motion with major blockbuster and indie darlings and recognition with many award nominations including his Oscar win. All of this added to what his legacy was after taking on so much before making that climb into fame.
MCU and Iron Man
His well-known character is that of Iron Man which cemented him as one of the most influential actors in film history along with high success in that franchise.He would then reach greater heights by his portrayal of Louis Strauss in Oppenheimer a role that led to his Oscar award.
Key Takeaways
- Robert Downey Jr. had a short yet influential experience on SNL where he was able to understand what he does and does not do well within acting roles.
- He gained access to his role at SNL because his friend Anthony Michael Hall helped get him that chance, despite it being one of the weakest seasons of the series.
- Downeys history as both a comic and dramatic actor have taken him far through a decades long run including a prominent status among the world's most well-known and liked stars.
- Rdj uses his voice to help young actors with an approach of offering great advice based on his own personal experiences in his careers path.
- His commitment to personal development was something showcased even with difficult situations and is something others have gained from and will remember as he has gained more successes.