## From Iron Man to SNL: How Robert Downey Jr. Convinced Lorne Michaels He Was Worth the Risk
He’s the charismatic, quippy, and undeniably talented Robert Downey Jr., a Hollywood titan who redefined superhero cinema. But before he was donning the Iron Man suit, RDJ made a daring leap onto the hallowed stage of Saturday Night Live.
A Friend in High Places
The Odd Couple
Robert Downey Jr.’s journey to SNL began with an unlikely friendship forged on the set of the 1985 blockbuster “Weird Science.” His co-star, Anthony Michael Hall, became a pivotal figure in Downey Jr.’s casting. According to the Peacock docu-series “SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night,” Hall recommended Downey Jr. to Lorne Michaels, the legendary producer of SNL, believing that they would make a dynamic duo on the show.
“Michael Hall said to me, ‘I’m gonna go do SNL. I’m gonna get you an audition, and I bet you’re gonna get yourself on the show too,'” Downey Jr. recalls in the episode. Hall, ever the playful friend, added, “[I’m] still waiting for that bastard to repay a favor, 40 years later. Come on Iron Man, you got it in you.”
Lorne Michaels’ Gamble
Michaels, who had returned to SNL after a five-year hiatus in 1985, was looking to inject fresh energy into the show. Casting Downey Jr. and Hall, both rising stars from the popular film, seemed like a shrewd move. They brought with them a certain youthful exuberance and comedic potential that the show, perhaps, lacked. The strategy behind bringing in young, fresh faces was to revitalize the show and attract a new generation of viewers.
A Star’s Recommendation
Downey Jr.’s established Hollywood name and star power undoubtedly played a role in Michaels’ decision. At that point, he was already known for his charisma and charm, qualities that could translate well to the SNL stage. The expectation was that Downey Jr.’s presence would draw in viewers and generate buzz for the show.
The SNL Rollercoaster: A Year of Hits and Misses
Finding the Funny
Downey Jr.’s comedic style was a unique blend of wit, sarcasm, and occasional improvisation. While this worked well in films, it didn’t always translate seamlessly to the fast-paced world of SNL. The show demanded quick thinking, sharp delivery, and an ability to work within the confines of pre-written sketches, which could be a challenge for an actor accustomed to more structured filmmaking.
The ‘Weird Science’ Dilemma
The pressure was on for Downey Jr. and Hall to recreate the magic they had on screen in “Weird Science.” However, the show struggled to capitalize on their on-screen chemistry. The dynamic between them in SNL sketches felt forced at times, lacking the natural ease and comedic spark that had made their film pairing so successful.
Behind the Curtain
Reports of backstage turmoil and creative clashes during Downey Jr.’s season emerged, casting a shadow over his time on the show. The fast-paced environment of SNL, with its demanding writers and tight deadlines, may have contributed to these clashes. This, coupled with the pressure to live up to expectations, created a challenging atmosphere for Downey Jr. to thrive in.
Conclusion
Robert Downey Jr.’s iconic journey to Saturday Night Live is a testament to his relentless hustle and undeniable talent. From the early days of facing a series of rejections to landing his dream gig on the legendary sketch show, his story is a masterclass in persistence and self-belief. Downey’s anecdote reveals the power of a well-timed, audacious approach, and the importance of seizing opportunities when they present themselves.