With 19 films across Marvel Cinematic Universe, some may forget that one of the most successful film franchises of all time started all the way back in 2008 with a film called Iron-Man. With this, it seemed only appropriate for the man who played the titular character, Robert Downey Jr. to deliver a heartfelt speech during the premiere of Avengers: Infinity War
Alongside several cast members, Downey Jr. took the stage and said a lot about the MCU’s past, present and future.“This is a miracle”. He said. “And if any one of us took credit it would be heresy. It would be blasphemy.” With his signature wit and lovable narcissism, he jokingly remarked. “Screw it … you’re welcome!”
Downey Jr. alluded to his past regarding the substance abuse and legal problems he dealt with:
The past for me was 30 years of dependency, depravity, and despair …. otherwise known as ‘An Actor Prepares!”
He further added:
The present is this moment of glory for all of us. And the future…? That is always uncertain. But looking at these friends behind me…it seems like things might brighten up after all.”
Aside from looking back at the state of the MCU, Downey Jr. further commented on the lack of diversity in terms of its directors and also gave a nod to Chadwick Boseman’s Black Panther as he threw in a crossed arm salute, saying “By the way, Wakanda Forever”. He also added:
“This is the MCU, right in front of you…It’s all about fighting for equality. The whole idea is to make space for others to succeed, and exceed our expectations.”
He then praised Gwyneth Paltrow, who starred with him in Iron-Man, calling her “the very First Lady of Marvel, and now there are many”. He also tipped his hat off to Iron-Man director, Jon Favreau saying; “When they say the man who started it all, that is you, Jon”.
His role as Iron-Man can be seen as what really brought him back to his feet and Downey Jr. definitely has a strong connection to the character and so do we. Love him or hate him, it all started with a heart of iron.
Source: EW
