Robert Downey Jr. secured his maiden Oscar victory on March 10, clinching the coveted title of Best Supporting Actor for his menacing portrayal in the blockbuster period drama Oppenheimer at the 96th Academy Awards, per straitstimes.com.
The 58-year-old actor triumphed over a formidable lineup, including Hollywood heavyweights Robert De Niro, Ryan Gosling, Mark Ruffalo, and Sterling K. Brown. Downey’s portrayal of Lewis Strauss, the former chairman of the United States Atomic Energy Commission, captivated audiences with his portrayal of a villainous figure orchestrating a campaign against scientist J. Robert Oppenheimer.
Expressing gratitude, Downey attributed his success to his turbulent upbringing, acknowledging the Academy and his wife Susan for their unwavering support. He also extended heartfelt appreciation to the cast and crew of Oppenheimer, underscoring the significance of their collective efforts in the filmmaking process.
Robert Downey Jr. during the 96th Academy Awards, on March 10. (Image: Reuters)Critics lauded Downey’s departure from his traditional roles, hailing his performance as a testament to his versatility as an actor. Despite his iconic portrayal of Marvel superhero Iron Man, Downey’s portrayal of Lewis Strauss showcased a depth and complexity previously unseen in his repertoire.
