Did Robert Downey Jr.’s history of substance abuse have anything to do with him getting the role of Tony Stark (aka "Iron Man")? Probably not, but it’ll still help the actor get into the character, I bet.
In addition to honoring the source material and pleasing the fans, Downey is also intent on pleasing his director: "I want to show Jon (Favreau) he was right to have faith in me. Whatever questions might have arisen about my life weren’t issues with him," is what the actor told USA Today.
Favreau, for his part, couldn’t be happier: "He had to find an inner balance to overcome obstacles that went far beyond his career. That’s Tony Stark."
Plus, as any comics fan can tell you, Tony Stark had a drinking problem that Mr. Downey can probably relate to. So this role is not only a huge break for the actor, but perhaps a very expensive form of therapy as well. (Good for Downey, I say. If any actor deserved a second chance, it’s him.)
Plus the fans are equally psyched. Comics2Film.com says "He was built up and torn down many times. I think when people heard Robert Downey was going to play the part, there was actually a big relief."
So everyone’s happy. Now let’s get the movie finished. Check out USA Today for the rest of the article and a new pic of Downey as Stark.
Source: USA Today
