Robert Downey Sr. Dead At 85, Son Robert Downey Jr. Pens Heartbreaking Tribute
Robert Downey Sr. has died at the age of 85.
According to his wife, Downey Sr. passed away in his sleep at his New York City home on Wednesday, July 7, after battling Parkinson’s Disease for over five years.
Downey Sr. was a beloved filmmaker, director, actor, writer and, of course, father to A-list actor Robert Downey Jr.
The wildly popular Iron Man actor took to social media to honor his father in a heartfelt post. He shared an old black-and-white photo of his pops to his Instagram.
“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,” he sweetly wrote in the caption.
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He also mentioned his stepmom in the post. “According to my stepmom's calculations, they were happily married for just over 2000 years,” he continued. “Rosemary Rogers-Downey, you are a saint, and our thoughts and prayers are with you.”
Downey Sr. had a prolific career in the film industry, beginning in the 60s with writing and directing projects including Balls Bluff, Babo 73, No More Excuses and Putney Swope. He later would become known for his appearances in Boogie Nights, Magnolia and To Live And Die In LA.
He was also outspoken about the difficulties of Hollywood life, including the toll it took on his Oscar-nominated son.
“Life is too easy when you’re a movie star. People will do anything you want and get you anything you want,” he said at the time. “Hollywood is a horrible place.”
Downey Sr. also fathered a daughter, Allyson Downey, whom he shared with Elsie Ann Ford before divorcing in 1975. He went on to marry Laura Ernst who died in 1994 before marrying Rosemary Rogers four years later.
