An Open Letter to Robert Downey, Jr.
Dear Robert Downey, Jr.,
I try to keep these letters at around two minutes per read, so I can’t go into full detail about my pure, true, incorruptible love for you, Mr. Downey. To be honest, I don’t think I could form enough words in order to really put to paper (or screen, rather) just how wholly I adore you. Still, everything is worth at least one good try.
I’m a 90’s baby- a TRUE 90’s baby. Not born in 1999 so I claim it, but born in 1992 and have memories of much of the 90’s. I remember watching cartoons in the afternoon until it became primetime TV and my mom would start watching Ally McBeal. That was my first taste of The RDJ.
I was too young to really understand a lot of what was going on there, but I do remember thinking you were funny and weird in an interesting way that I couldn’t quite place but knew I wanted to watch you any time you were on screen, and any time you weren’t, I wanted you to come back. As an adult, I think that means you were one of the first non-Disney actors I thought was cute.
I also remember seeing your infamous appearances on CourtTV. Don’t worry, I’m not going to dredge up the bad other than to say I recall thinking I didn’t like it, and that I liked you enough to know that I wanted them to let you be on the TV again… in stories, not reality. As an adult, I can see that that might have been my first hint of ‘Save A Ho’ syndrome that led to a few toxic relationships, but again, not your fault.
Before I talk about the main event, I want to sidebar with anyone other than the Great himself that’s reading this to say: if you haven’t watched any of Downey’s non-Marvel films, go do it now. We’ll wait. There’s so much awesomeness to choose from- Charlie Bartlett, Chaplin, Only You, Gothika, Soapdish… go to his imdb page and pick one at random. Honestly the only one I don’t recommend is In Dreams. The rest are flawless. FUR for anyone into weird avant garde films.
So, back on track. Iron Man, Mr. Downey. You were born to be Tony Stark, and somewhere in his creative genius mind, Stan Lee must have predicted you to have made a character so completely destined for your personality. Tony’s struggles and perseverance mirrors your own so closely that it can only be kismet. You are the foundation to the greatest, most ambitious movie franchise in all of film history- and also because of you we have Chris Evans as Steve Rogers (another human MADE for a character so perfectly).
In your short time since Marvel you have helped lead an environmentally friendly organization, you are promoting clean energy and organic alternatives to every day items, and have been a source of happiness and support for sick and needy children. You’re a true superhero doing your best to build a shield around the earth to protect us all from ourselves. Your genuine spirit shines so brightly; but it always did. Addiction never dulled your heart, just overshadowed your drive at times.
I can feel myself keying up for a good ole fashioned ramble, so I’ll cut myself short here. What you represent to me is purity, cleverness, talent, ambition, perseverance, and a will to overcome. For me, the question is never why are you my idol, but why are you NOT everyone’s? With every step of your career and life you have leveled up your intentions and goals and amazing heart, and I think the world would be such an incredible place if more people took a page from your book, Mr. Downey. You are a true legend.
Nothing but love and admiration,
Rebecca Timberlake
P.S. Your wife Susan is a beacon, as well, and I’m as big a fan of her as I am you. What a monumental woman. XOXO