11-3-2024 (LOS ANGELES) In a momentous triumph at the 96th Academy Awards in Los Angeles, Robert Downey Jr. has clinched the coveted Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his outstanding performance in “Oppenheimer.”
Portraying Lewis Strauss, the arch-nemesis of J. Robert Oppenheimer, as brought to life by Cillian Murphy in the Christopher Nolan-directed biopic, Downey Jr. claimed his first Oscar win. The accomplished actor had previously received nominations for Best Actor in 1993 for “Chaplin” and Best Supporting Actor in 2009 for “Tropic Thunder.”
Downey Jr., who had emerged as the frontrunner for the award, secured victory after already bagging prestigious accolades for his role, including the Golden Globe, BAFTA, and Screen Actors Guild awards. Despite facing stiff competition from the likes of Robert De Niro in “Killers of the Flower Moon,” Ryan Gosling in “Barbie,” and Mark Ruffalo in “Poor Things,” Downey Jr. emerged triumphant.
Expressing his gratitude, the acclaimed actor thanked his “terrible childhood and the Academy, in that order.” He also acknowledged his “veterinarian… sorry… wife, Susan Downey,” revealing that she not only found him a snarling refuge pet but also loved him back to life, stating, “That’s why I’m here.”
Downey Jr. shared his “little secret,” confessing, “I needed this job more than it needed me. I stand here before you a better man because of it.” This heartfelt acknowledgment resonated with the audience, marking a poignant moment in the actor’s illustrious career.
