There’s nothing quite like a great comeback story. One that proves to us that people really can come back from anything, even a longtime struggle with addiction. Robert Downey Jr., otherwise known as RDJ to his loving fans, is a poster child for a comeback from addiction.
When he was just 6 years old, his dad introduced him to marijuana. His dad struggled with addiction and for some time, this addiction became a bond for RDJ and his father. Robert Downey Jr. would go on to try other drugs and become an alcoholic.
In the 1980′s, he was building a name for himself. He acted on SNL, had roles in movies such as Weird Science and The Pickup Artist. His fame continued to rise when he starred in Chaplin and gave an amazing performance. However, in his personal life, things were rocky. He ended up getting arrested after cops pulled him over for speeding and found heroin and cocaine. This was the start of his arrests, time in rehabs, and jail time.
In 2001, he almost got another break when he was cast to play a role on Ally McBeal. However, after just 2 seasons, he was fired. He faced an arrest and had to go to a rehab session. In 2003, he recovered. His second wife pressured him to get better and with the help of yoga, meditation, therapy, and 12-step programs, he’s stayed sober.
The Final Comeback from Addiction
He’s now one of the highest paid actors in Hollywood. He got his first role since recovery in The Singing Detective. Since then, he’s become hugely famous for his role as Tony Stark/Iron Man in the Marvel Universe Franchise. He’s had several roles since 2003, including staring in Sherlock Holmes. You can see him in Sherlock Holmes 3 in 2020 and the new Avengers movie next year.
Robert Downey Jr. is an example that with motivation, the right resources and support, you can move past addiction. Even though RDJ was exposed to it at a young age, he is now living proof that there is life after drinking and drugs — a life that can be full of happiness and success.
