'Iron Man' Robert Downey Jr's father, 'maverick filmmaker' Robert Downey Sr passes away at 85

On Wednesday night (local time), actor Robert Downey Jr took to Instagram to inform that his father and 'maverick filmmaker', Robert Downey Sr. has passed away. He was 85.

In a public statement issued on Instagram, Robert informed that his father died Tuesday peacefully in his sleep at home in New York. He was battling Parkinson's disease for more than five years. 

Bidding his dad adieu and sharing the news with the world, alongside a photo of his dad from his young days, Robert Downey Jr wrote on Instagram, "RIP Bob D. Sr. 1936-2021…Last night, dad passed peacefully in his sleep after years of enduring the ravages of Parkinson’s ..he was a true maverick filmmaker, and remained remarkably optimistic throughout."

Adding that according to his stepmother's calculations, she and his father were happily married for just over 2000 years, Robert continued, "According to my stepmoms calculations, they were happily married for just over 2000 years."

"Rosemary Rogers-Downey, you are a saint, and our thoughts and prayers are with you," he added.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Robert Downey Jr. Official (@robertdowneyjr)

Born in New York City in 1936 as Robert Elias Jr., he later changed his surname to Downey — his stepfather's name — in order to join the army early. 

Later, he into filmmaking by chance while living in New York with his sister.

Downey made a name for himself with films like 'Putney Swope' and the 'Greaser’s Palace' starring Allan Arbus. He also appeared in 'Boogie Nights' (1997), 'Magnolia' (1999) and 'Tower Heist' (2011). He was also featured in the film 'To Live and Die in L.A.'.