News Archive
Kiss Kiss Comes to DVD 13 Jun 2006
Today Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang is released on R1 DVD. The DVD includes a blooper
reel and a commentary with Downey, Val Kilmer, and director Shane Black. This is only the second DVD with Downey on the commentary
(Two Girls and a Guy is the first).
Best Interview Ever? 12 Jun 2006
At long last, Downey will appear on Bravo's long-running show Inside the Actor's Studio. The show, known for
its in-depth interviews focusing on the lives and careers of top entertainers airs on Bravo. The Downey episode premieres on July 9.
Saints Alive! 20 Jan 2006
After several years of rumors, A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints has not only been filmed, but it was screened
at the 2006 Sundance Film Festival. Written and directed by Dito Montiel, the film is based on his autobiography about growing
up on the tough streets of New York and working as a model. Downey, who was extremely influential in getting the film made,
plays Montiel as an adult.
A Change for Zodiac? 18 Jan 2006
There are reports that the title of Zodiac may be changed to Chronicles. The film is still shooting, but
is expected to wrap early this year.
Oscar Night Will Be a Good Night 15 Jan 2006
The critically-acclaimed Good Night & Good Luck has
been scoring accolades all over the place, including four Golden Globe nominations, 6 BAFTA nominations, 4 Independent Spirit noms, a
and countless film critics' awards. The film is expected to receive several Oscar nominations, likely to include Best Picture and Best Screenplay.
Downey was included in the Screen Actors Guild nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture,
and though he is only a supporting actor, Good Night & Good Luck
is proving to be the most acclaimed film he has been in to date.
A Family Thing 27 Nov 2005
Downey lent his voice to a character in the animated FOX comedy Family Guy. He played the long lost brother of Lois Griffin,
who the family rescues from an asylum, only to learn he has a dark secret. The episode -- "Fat Guy Strangler" -- first aired on 27 Nov 2005,
and will likely appear many more times in reruns and in syndication, as well as on the inevitable DVD release of season 5.
Fall 2005 Brings 2 New Downey Films to Theaters 26 Oct 2005
This October, two new Downey films have come out in limited release -- Kiss, Kiss, Bang, Bang, a comedy/thriller co-starring Val Kilmer, and
Good Night & Good Luck, a historical piece on the journalists who took on Sen. McCarthy
during the height of the red scare. Both films open in wide release early in November. Look for Kiss, Kiss, Bang, Bang on November 11, and Good Night & Good Luck on November 4.
Click the links or go to the Comprehensive Film Guide to read more about these films, including full entries/reviews in the guide with pictures.
I've been able to see both, and would say Kiss, Kiss, Bang, Bang is arguably the first must-see film that he's done in about 5 years.
Off the Market Again 29 Aug 2005
At a private ceremony in the Hamptons, Downey married producer Susan Levin. The bride wore a white dress, and the groom embellished his tux with a purple scarf and black sneakers.
Major Milestone 4 Apr 2005
April 4th marked Downey's 40th birthday. He's been keeping well with the support of his family, steady work, a strict low-carb diet, and
the discipline of Wing Chun, a form of kung fu.
Mussolini Returning to Europe! 30 Jan 2005
Well, in DVD form, anyway. The beginning of 2005 brings 2 new DVDs to Region 2. Last week, Johnny Be Good was released. And on 21 March 2005, "Mussolini: The Untold Story" will be released on DVD. The 7-hour miniseries, originally release in 1985, features the then 20 year-old Downey as Bruno Mussolini.
Downey's Celebrity Playlist 30 Jan 2005
The iTunes music store now features a playlist with 10 of Robert Downey Jr's favorite songs. His selections (with his comments) are below.
Darkness, The Police -- It was, I think a Stuart Clopeland composition on the quintessential Police album -- the lyrics 'I wish I never woke up this morning, life was easy when it was boring.'
Blame It on the Sun, Stevie Wonder -- Super-genius love-ballad.
Peg, Steely Dan -- Hot pockets, undisputed masters of counter-melody.
Red Rain, Peter Gabriel -- Musical innovation, haunting lyrics.
Heaven, Bryan Adams -- 80s tear-jerker, still works. A treat.
Faithfully, Journey -- Strangely pro-monogamy. Steve Perry rules.
Finish What Ya Started, Van Halen -- Alex redefines non-linear drumming, Hagar handles it, Eddie presides, as usual.
Me and My Arrow, Harry Nilsson -- A Gershwin-esque beautifully romatic song about a man's best friend ... his Arrow.
Why Can't It Wait 'til Morning, Phil Collins -- Underappreciated composition. Lest we forget Genesis spawned more than one great solo artist?
With or Without You, U2 -- What can I say? This one's just great.
Tears in Heaven 23 Jan 2005
Downey is joining the Osbournes, Elton John, Rod Stewart and others on a cover of Eric Clapton's song Tears in Heaven. Proceeds from the song, produced by Sharon Osbourne, will go to benefit Save the Children.
A Marvelous Night for a Sundance 1 Dec 2004
Downey's latest film release might turn out to be Game Six, which will premiere at the 2005 Sundance Film Festival. The film, which co-stars Michael Keaton and Catherine O'Hara, follows a playwright during the sixth game of the 1986 World Series.
Madison Ave Calls Again 1 Dec 2004
Once again the ad industry has solicited the talents of Robert Downey Jr. This time it's TWBA Chiat/Day's campaign for the FOX Sports Network. In the spots, Downey supplies the voice of a basketball who accompanies (and taunts) his human best friend through everyday situations.
Shaggy New Role 28 Nov 2004
Variety reports that Downey is about to start filming The Shaggy Dog, a Disney remake starring Tim Allen. Downey will play the presumably villanous businessman who experiments on dogs with a miracle drug. The movie also features Danny Glover and Kristin Davis.
Talking About the Futurist and More 28 Nov 2004
Downey told the New York Times, "I think I'm more sensitive and introspective and filled with wonder at the universe because of what I've gone through than I care to admit. So every one of the songs is influenced by my experience." Yet he remains aware that, "No way would I ever get to express myself musically if I wasn't an actor of ill repute. You don't get on Oprah if you lead a gleaming life and then just happen to cross over into music." The conversation eventually turned back to his acting career. Downey said that he was very unhappy doing TV, and has been much more selective about the roles that he accepts now, adding, "I need the money, but it's not like the offers I'm getting are breathtaking epics."
Giving a Hand to Charity 10 Nov 2004
Downey has donated an autographed handprint to be auctioned on behalf of the Ronald McDonald House charity. So if you'd like a unique piece of memorabilia, or if you're missing a crucial piece of evidence in your Downey-related forensic investigation, you have until Nov 20 to bid on the handprint.
The Futurist is Coming 23 October 2004
To promote his upcoming album, The Futurist, Downey will be covering all the promotional bases. Appearances are already planned for morning, afternoon, primetime, and late night TV -- most notably including Saturday Night Live. Catch him on The Ellen Degeneres Show on Nov 30, and on The Tonight Show (Leno) on Dec 2.
Making the Cut 20 October 2004
Yet another Downey film will be hitting R1 DVD this year. On 16 November 2004, Short Cuts will officially become the first Downey film to be released by Criterion. Only a select group of films are chosen for the Criterion Collection (Short Cuts is title #265), and while these DVDs tend to be a little more expensive, they are renowned for their quality and special features.
Even More Gothika 10 October 2004
The Gothika Special Edition DVD comes out 12 October 2004 in R1. Did you think that just 1 DVD wasn't enough to capture the bone-chilling splendor that was Gothika? Well, you are NOT ALONE (oooh) ... someone at Warner Bros. agreed with you, because the Special Edition features not 1 but 2 discs of, um, Gothika stuff.
Will Lightning Strike Twice? 10 October 2004
There are 2 things we thought we'd never see on FOX again -- Robert Downey Jr. and Family Guy. In the wake of stellar DVD sales, FOX resurrected the animated sitcom a year after its cancellation. But before you get any ideas about reviving your Bring Back Ally campaign, word is that Family Guy is courting Downey to voice a recurring character.
It's Just Business 10 October 2004
Multimedia Superstar 26 September 2004
It's official. For those of you who sing the Smile remix in your sleep, or have worn out half a dozen Ally McBeal CDs, there's good news. Downey has signed with Sony Classical and will release his first solo album of pop ballads on 23 November 2004. The album, titled The Futurist, will feature 10 songs, 8 of which were written by Downey.
Moving on from KKBB 4 June 2004
Kiss, Kiss, Bang, Bang has wrapped shooting, and Downey has moved onto a new project -- A Scanner Darkly, based on a trippy futuristic tale of a drug that causes split personality. They're currently filming live-action in Texas, but word is, during post-production they'll use special effects to turn the footage into animation. Both A Scanner Darkly and Kiss, Kiss, Bang, Bang should be released next year.
New DVDs on Parade 4 June 2004
Worldwide we'll be seeing 6 new Downey DVDs this summer. Region 1 will be getting the highly
anticipated Special Edition Air America. So toss that plain ol'
Air America DVD back in the bargain bin, because on July 20 you can get the really, eh, special new one.
Also in R1, the cameorific Hail Caesar hits.
In Europe (Region 2), The Singing Detective hits on July
20. August 2 brings 1969, followed shortly by Gothika on August 9. And, perhaps the most (genuinely)
exciting new release will be in Australia (Region 4),
where Chaplin finally comes out on July 28.
Total Confidence 28 Mar 2004
Volvo UK has launched their V50 website, including the short film The Route V50
starring Downey. You can visit the Volvo UK site
to view or download the short film. A limited number of UK fans can sign up to receive a free DVD.
Later this year when the Volvo V50 is launched in North America, the DVD will be available here.
DVD News 23 Mar 2004
The Singing Detective and Gothika have just been released on R1 DVD.
New Film Starts Next Week 25 Feb 2004
Variety reports that Downey will start shooting a new action murder mystery buddy comedy with Val Kilmer. The film --Kiss, Kiss, Bang, Bang (formerly "You'll Never Die in this Town Again")-- is the directorial debut of screenwriter Shane Black (Lethal Weapon) by the power of prolific producer Joel Silver (Gothika and Weird Science).
Saints Be Praised 13 Feb 2004
Reports are in that A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints will begin filming in New York this May.
Downey's Going to Harvard 5 Feb 2004
Robert Downey Jr. has been named Man of the Year by Harvard University's Hasty Pudding Theatricals. The prestigious award goes to those who have a "lasting and impressive contribution to the world of entertainment." Downey will be roasted and presented with the award on 19 Feb 2004. The 2004 Woman of the Year is Sandra Bullock, who will be honored a week earlier.
You Think About How to Sell More Volvos ... 31 Jan 2004
And you rip-off BMW's idea by making an internet film. Volvo has teamed up with Tomboy Films to get director Stephen Frears and Robert Downey Jr. Word is they've already shot the short film, designed to tout the features of a new sporty Volvo wagon.
Shorts Available on the Web 31 Jan 2004
This isn't new news, but I want to keep it up for any of you who might be out of touch. Two short films featuring Downey are available online for those with Quicktime. Check out the links for
Whatever We Do and Lethargy in the Film Guide.
Hosting Between the Lines 20 Nov 2003
Next year, Downey will appear as the host of a four-part series on A&E called Between the Lines.
The show features celebrities, such as Martin Sheen, reading letters written by historical figures.
Lethargy Available Online 18 Nov 2003
There is a rare short film featuring RDJ available to view for free online. The film is called
Lethargy, and you can find it here.
(NOTE: The video is 17MB and you must have QuickTime to view it)
Off the Market 18 Nov 2003
Downey's girlfriend, Gothika producer Susan Levin, has been spotted in public bearing an
engagement ring. It is confirmed that the ring is from him and not (as some of his fans may have
secretly hoped) from a rival suitor. So, join me in wishing much happiness to the couple (or, at
least, smile and pretend to, while trying to remember that you might be able to get
Two Girls and a Guy on DVD.
As for This Site 12 Sept 2003
This August marked the 4th birthday of the site, so I hope you bear with me as cqproject gets ready
to enter kindergarten.
Trailer Park 12 Sept 2003
As the releases of Gothika and
The Singing Detective approach rapidly,
we now have trailers and more international release dates (Click on the titles to go
into the film guide for all the latest info).
Downey Proves Too Pricey for Woody Film 1 Sept 2003
A few weeks after Variety reported that Downey would be in Woody Allen's next project,
things took a turn for the worst when the small budget film could not manage the hefty insurance
bill that Downey would have required.
Making Headlines with Winona 27 July 2003
According to Variety, Downey and Winona Ryder are in talks to star in the next Woody Allen film.
No word yet on the title or plot of the film.
Down for Whatever 18 July 2003
According to Entertainment Weekly, Whatever We Do
is being turned into a feature length film. The short film was available for several weeks on Fox
Searchlight's website.
Gothika Wraps 18 July 2003
After going about four weeks over schedule (due to Halle Berry's on-set injury),
Gothika has just wrapped shooting and now goes
into post-production.
Vegas Odds 12 July 2003
The Las Vegas Sun reports that Downey will play author Jim McManus in an adaptation
of Positively Fifth Street -- the story of a reporter who goes to Vegas to report
on the World Series of Poker, and ends up becoming a poker champ himself. This has yet to
be confirmed in the trades.
Guess? Who's Giving to Charity 25 June 2003
Early in the summer, Downey (with a little help from Deborah Falconer and son Indio) decorated a Guess?
Denim jacket which was auctioned off on Ebay for the benefit of Chrysalis.
The jacket brought in nearly $750 for the L.A.-based organization, and word is, it now has a happy home
in Holland.
All Saint's Day 23 May 2003
According to Variety, Trudie Styler (aka Mrs. Sting) will produce the film adaptation of
A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints. You may recall that in September 2001, Downey optioned the rights
to Dito Montiel's autobiography about his adventures as a child growing up in New York, a CK model, and
a punk rocker. Downey will play the main character as an adult, looking back on his life. Contrary to
earlier reports, however, he will not be donning puffy director pants for this project. Yes, I know what
the cover of the book says, but Montiel will serve as director.
'Neath the Cover of October Skies 3 May 2003
Both Gothika and The Singing Detective
will be released in the US on 24 October 2003.
Eros 28 Feb 2003
Who needs cleverness with a film title like that? Following yesterday's segment of Downey at home on
Extra, reliable trade magazine Variety reports that Downey will star in
Gothika with Halle Berry, as well as in a segment of a film
called Eros -- a film which brings together short films by
3 different directors. Downey will star in Steven Soderbergh's segment, along with Alan Arkin.
Possible New Film 14 Feb 2003
According to Hollywood Reporter, Downey is now in negotiations for a role as a psychiatrist
in an upcoming movie called Gothika, also starring Halle Berry
and Penelope Cruz. Berry plays a criminal psychologist who struggles with a "vengeful spirit" after being
locked up for a murder she doesn't remember committing.
Paramount Picks Up Detective 7 Feb 2003
After showing at Sundance last month, The Singing Detective
weathered mixed reviews. Hollywood Reporter confirmed rumors that the film has been picked up for
distribution by Paramount Classics,
an indie-friendly branch of Paramount Pictures.
Whatever's Happening at Sundance 7 Jan 2003
The short film Whatever We Do, starring Downey, will be showing
at the Sundance film festival this year along with The Singing Detective.
Free at Last 22 Dec 2002
Officials say that last week Downey's parole was lifted.
Unusual Bi-coastal Flaunt-ing 10 Dec 2002
Downey has been keeping busy. In one week, he attended the American Cinametheque ceremony, hosted a party for Flaunt magazine, and returns back to the West Coast to attend a benefit for the Unusual Suspects Theatre Company, which works with at-risk youth. Of course. What did you think this news item was about?
Whatever 15 Nov 2002
Reportedly Downey will appear with Tim Roth in a short film about life in Hollywood, called Whatever We Do, set to be shot at Tobey Maguire's house.
American Cinametheque 15 Nov 2002
American Cinametheque is presenting an award to Denzel Washington on December 6 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. Downey is one of several expected guests, including Halle Berry, Ethan Hawke, and Tom Hanks. The event will be broadcast on AMC in March 2003. More info.
No Silver Lining 15 Nov 2002
And so is the life of non-profit organizations. There will be no Silver Lining/Silver Lake for the Hollywood Sunset Free Clinic this year.
A Layover in Chicago? 20 Oct 2002
No confirmation on this yet, but Access Hollywood has reported that Downey has a cameo appearance in the upcoming film Chicago. He was originally in consideration to star in it, so we'll see if he does show up in it. [UPDATE: Downey is not in Chicago]
The Joy of Ex 20 Oct 2002
Despite early reports that Downey would appear at the premiere the Katie Holmes' new film Abandon, he instead attended the premiere of Frida -- with former wife Deborah Falconer in tow.
Sam Taylor Wood Gives Us What We Want 11 Oct 2002
The November 2002 issue of GQ (UK version) features a 2 page photo of our boy, wearing slightly more than nothing, taken by our hero Sam Taylor Wood.
No News is Good News 26 Sep 2002
Downey has been seen around here and there, sightings include a NYC restaurant, a Springsteen concert in Vegas, the Goldmember premiere, and most notably Paramount's 90th Anniversary photo shoot. He and some 90 other celebrities gathered on the Paramount lot (the photo appears in the October issue of Vanity Fair).
Not Going to Be a West End Boy 26 Sep 2002
An update on an old rumor -- Downey will not be appearing in the West End production of Anything Goes.
Not to Be 25 July 2002
Mel Gibson has publicly stated that he and Downey have no plans to do a stage version of Hamlet in the near future. They have not completely ruled out the possibility of doing it one day, but both will be putting their energy into other projects for the time being.
Freedom or Something Like It 19 July 2002
Downey has successfully completed one year of court-ordered rehab, and his probation was officially ended today (for charges from his November 2001 arrest). His lawyer added, "It means he is much more insurable for making movies." However, he is still on parole from the ancient charges that landed him in jail three years ago.
All the News That's Fit to Post 16 July 2002
There has been no major news in the Downey world, but since the webmaster has been slacking on the updates, here are the little things I've neglected to post ... He has made a few public appearances, including at the premiere of The Crocodile Hunter and at Paramount's anniversary party ... Most interesting media sighting was an interview with Mel Gibson about The Singing Detective, where we learned that Downey will not be doing his own vocals for the songs, and apparently he is single now.
The Rumor Mill 16 July 2002
The good news is all of the recent rumors have been about future projects for Downey. These are unconfirmed speculations from all over the map (literally and figuratively). A BBC miniseries on Hitler, the musical Anything Goes on London's West End, a film version of The Producers (a film version of the musical based on the 1968 film), another James Toback film, a music album, Sunset Boulevard (a film version of the musical based on the 1950 film). So while we don't know what's next for him, clearly his options are open.
The Detective Has Sung 18 June 2002
Yup, The Singing Detective has wrapped filming--now don't ask me when it's coming out. It still has to go through post-production, then the marketing team will decide on the release dates.
Cover Boy 18 June 2002
On August 15, Sam Taylor Wood (director of the I Want Love video) is coming out with a new book titled Sam Taylor Wood. A still of Downey from I Want Love makes up the cover of the book, and we are led to believe there will be more photos of him inside.
Birthday Scoops 4 Apr 2002
Downey turns 37 today. Variety reports that Robin Wright Penn has been cast as his co-star in The Singing Detective, which begins shooting later this month. Also, a reminder for all you Region 1 DVDers, 1969 hits the format on April 16.
Dumpster Diver Discovers Downey Debris 31 Mar 2002
It was reported last week that a man rummaging through a dumpster in California found some of Downey's trash (old photos, an unsent letter, and other items). Conflicting reports have said that the man tried to return or sell back the items, but Downey's publicist said he meant to throw away the items.
Court Date 20 Mar 2002
On March 19, Downey appeared in court. Judge Randall White reviewed a report by Downey's probation officers, which concluded that he has complied with the terms of his probation/rehabilitation, and has remained drug-free. Another in-court review was set for July 19. If all goes well at the next court date, the judge may end his probation and dismiss his drug charges from 2001.
There'll be Singing 26 Feb 2002
Today Variety reports that it is official -- Downey is set to star in a film version of the BBC show The Singing Detective. Mel Gibson's production company is behind this film.
Skech-y New Deal 14 Feb 2002
Skechers USA announced today in a press release that they have "a global endorsement deal with award-winning actor Robert Downey Jr., who will appear in print advertisements for its men's footwear lines." Their brand-building strategy includes moving into European and Asian markets, which means you international fans can pat yourselves on the
back -- Skechers courted Downey because you like him.
Biting the Bullets 16 Jan 2002
Variety reported that Robert Downey Jr is in negotiations to star in a new movie called Six Bullets from Now, which is based on a true story of a 1970s hotel robbery in New York. Downey's publicist Alan Nierob confirms that Six Bullets is one of several movies Downey has been discussing in recent weeks. He is still in rehab, under the rules of the program as well as state parole officers.
Film Gossip 16 Jan 2002
Gossip columnist Liz Smith reports that Downey has been secretly meeting with Trudie Styler and Dito Montiel, author of A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints. As of yet, we only know for sure that Downey optioned the rights to the book last year. This report adds that he is working on the re-write of the script, and hopes to direct the film, which Styler would produce.
The PR Man Speaketh 9 Jan 2002
Rumors that Downey will return to Ally are untrue. Both Downey's PR guy and a spokesperson for Ally McBeal stated that there is no plan for him to return to the show in May. The Ally rep said they have not ruled out the possibility of having him back on the show.
And Ally Goes on Without Him Jan 2002
The producers announced that they will be filming the rest of the Ally
season without Robert Downey Jr. This comes as no surprise, as he is
tied up with rehab. He missed a CD signing with Vonda Sheperd the
afternoon after his arrest, which was cancelled. Ally producers have
denied that they "fired" him from the show... this was just the spin
that reporters put on the release... and to anyone who might email me,
No, I don't think he will do any more episodes of Ally. Reports indicate
that David E. Kelley has lost his patience.
Silver Lake Festival 14 Dec 2001
A recent feature in Hollywood Reporter reports more on the background of the festival,
a two-day benefit for the Hollywood Sunset Free Clinic. Downey hosted the first night with
Christina Ricci, and helped friends Dana Hollister, Sam Slovick and Teresa Padua plan the
two-day event. His appearance on Loveline this week with Anthony Kiedis of the Red Hot Chili
Peppers (who played at the festival) was to promote the event, where Loveline hosts Dr. Drew
and Adam Carolla also appeared. Downey's involvement included recruiting musicians, artists
and restaurant owners to get involved -- most notably getting Sting and Elton John on board.
River Rising Nov 2001
Fans in the US can note that during the holiday season, Downey's version
of the song River is being used in a certain Circuit City ad. We can forgive
this commercialism because the ad is secondarily about sending greetings
to US soldiers who are stationed overseas.
Well, That Was Anti-Climactic 7 Oct 2001
Perhaps the only thing more excruciating than the fact that Downey didn't
win the Emmy was that one of Martin Short's characters (oh, I know...
there are so many, each more unfunny than the one before) presented the
award. Oh well, devoted Ally fans who were fortunate enough to miss the
presentation might still be happy that Peter MacNicol won. Although why
they'd be visiting this site is beyond me.
Downey to Host Benefit Sep 2001
The L.A. Times reports that Downey will co-host the Silver Lake Festival
with Minnie Driver and Ione Skye. The Festival is a benefit for the
Hollywood Sunset Free Clinic, and will feature musical guests Elton John,
Sting, Deborah Falconer, Nortec Collective and El Otro Yo. It will be
held at the Paramour estate on December 13. Tickets ($250+) go on sale
November 1. Event sponsors credit Downey with getting Sting and Elton
John involved in the project.
Does the Ally News Ever End? Aug 2001
Executive producer Bill D'Elia tells Entertainment Weekly: "He is written
out of the show." Wait, Ally, put down that pint of Ben and Jerry's -- he
also adds, "But that doesn't mean it's a completely closed door." Thanks
for the clarification.
Finally, News Aug 2001
He recently wrapped filming on an Elton John music video for a song
called I Want Love. No vocals from Downey, but the entire video
focuses on him. Variety reports that his agent has been approached
with TV and film deals. Since working is a requirement of his probation,
there's no question that he will sign on to something -- just a matter of
what and when.
Everything's Coming Up Downey 16 July 2001
The suspense is over. July 16 marked Robert Downey Jr.'s most recent
court appearance for his November 2000 arrest. He entered a plea of
"No Contest" and under California's Proposition 36, he was sentenced
to 3 years of probation and 1 year of rehab. He will serve no jail
time as long as he complies with the terms of his probation. He could
face up to 4 years in prison if he's charged with additional drug
violations or if he does not cooperate with his treatment programs.
He has been living in a 24-hour rehab facility and will be subjected
to random drug tests and surprise visits from his parole officers.
The One That Counts 12 Jul 2001
Move over Golden Globe. Prepare to be a doorstop SAG award. Primetime
Emmy nominations were announced today, and they did come through
with a Best Supporting Actor (Comedy) nom for our boy. Other Ally
nominations include Calista Flockhart for Best Actress, and Best Casting.
The awards ceremony will air on CBS on October 7.
It's Ally Over 14 May 2001
The May 14 episode of Ally McBeal was officially the last episode which
will feature Robert Downey Jr. You can expect this to be the last Ally
news tidbit on this site until the Emmy nominations are announced, barring
any funky lawsuits or extraordinary events that could possibly happen.
DA Will Not Charge Downey 14 May 2001
It's official. Robert Downey Jr. will not face new charges for his April
24 arrest. This incident counts as a violation of his probation, but he
will not face any additional charges.
Drug Test Results Are In 10 May 2001
The test results are in from the drug test he took following his April 24
arrest. They turned up traces of cocaine. The Sherriff's department
recommended that he be charged with a misdemeanor of being under the
influence of a controlled substance.
Latest Court Date 30 Apr 2001
His attorneys appeared in court April 30 (for the Nov. arrest). They are
trying to get his charges reduced. He should appear in court with them
on May 24. His arrest from April 24 will not affect this case. However,
the State of California is expected to order him to six months of rehab
for violating parole. He would be allowed to work during this time.
And Ally Goes on Without Him 26 Apr 2001
The producers announced that they will be filming the rest of the Ally
season without Robert Downey Jr. This comes as no surprise, as he is
tied up with rehab. He missed a CD signing with Vonda Sheperd the
afternoon after his arrest, which was cancelled. Ally producers have
denied that they "fired" him from the show... this was just the spin
that reporters put on the release... and to anyone who might email me,
No, I don't think he will do any more episodes of Ally. Reports indicate
that David E. Kelley has lost his patience.
Another Brush with the Law 24 Apr 2001
Around midnight Tues. April 24, he was arrested in Culver City, CA while
walking down the street. The charge was Suspicion of Being Under the
Influence of a Controlled Substance. He was released a few hours later
and checked into rehab. He was scheduled for arraignment on May 15, but
the DA did not follow through.
New Ally CD is Out 24 Apr 2001
On April 24, the new Ally CD, For Once in My Life, was released. It
features at least three Robert Downey Jr. tracks: Chances Are and with
Vonda Sheperd, Every Breath You Take with Sting, and Snakes (the instrumental
version was previously featured in the movie Two Girls and a Guy).
New Award, This Time for Wonder Boys 20 April 2001
He was officially declared the winner of the first-ever Outfest Screen
Idol award for Outstanding Male Performance in a Gay Role for Wonder Boys.
Many thanks to all of you who voted for him online. No word yet on how/when it will be presented to him.
He May Go to Trial 15 Mar 2001
On his March 15 court date, the lawyers reported that they were unable to
reach a plea bargain. They will be in court again on April 30, when the
judge will review evidence and decide if the prosecution can proceed to
trial. Downey's lawyer reports they were holding out for an offer with no
"restriction on his freedom" and the DA did not give any such offers. If
he goes to trial and is convicted on all charges, he could face 4 and a
half years in prison.
Wonder Boys Coming Out on Video 13 March 2001
Yep, for real this time. Wonder Boys will be released for rent on video.
It will be priced to own on DVD, but those of you looking to buy it on video will have to wait.
Comedy Awards Mar 2001
He was nominated for an American Comedy Award, Funniest Supporting Male Performer in a TV Series for
his performance in Ally McBeal. Sean Hayes of Will and Grace
won the category.
Another Awards Show Victory Mar 2001
He took home a Screen Actors Guild Award (Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series)
this past week, thereby proving once and for all that he is way too good for TV. Kidding. Anyway,
let's all hope that widespread amnesia doesn't strike the Emmy voters later in the year, because I
am looking for him to pull off a hat trick this year.
TV Guide Awards 7 Mar 2001
He was nominated for a TV Guide Award. The ceremony was aired March 7,
2001. He didn't win, but was there.
Settlement in Lawsuit 8 Feb 2001
Robert Downey Jr. and his father settled a breach of contract suit out of court. They were
commissioned to write a screenplay and were later sued for not delivering.
Newsweek Cover Boy 5 Feb 2001
He's on the cover of Newsweek, addiction special.
Another Day in Court 29 Jan 2001
He appeared in court on January 29, where his lawyers requested a
continuance. The lawyers will use the time to build their defense, and
there is the possibility of a plea bargain during this time.
Untying the Knot Jan 2001
His wife Deborah Falconer has officially filed for divorce. This comes
as no big surprise since the couple has been separated for about five years.
Golden Boy Jan 2001
It's official! He won the Golden Globe for his role on Ally McBeal.
Other highlights of the event: he presented the clip of Wonder Boys,
in his acceptance speech he promised not to go back to "the factory."
Not Guilty Plea Entered 27 Dec 2000
Robert Downey Jr. pled not guilty to all charges from his November arrest.
He will not have to appear in court again until 29 January 2001, when it will be decided
whether or not he can go before an Expedited Drug Court (the Drug Court would most likely
send him to lockdown rehab; if he stays in criminal court, he would go to state prison if
found guilty on the 2 felony charges, or county jail if found guilty on the misdemeanor charge).
His rehab sponsor has been accompanying him to all court hearings.
Golden Globe Nom Dec 2000
Robert Downey Jr. has been nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance in Ally McBeal.
Other good news: Wonder Boys nominated for Best Film (Drama),
and Ally McBeal nominated for Best Series (Comedy or Musical);
Calista Flockhart and Michael Douglas have also been nominated for working on those projects.
All Clear in L.A. County 19 Dec 2000
He made his final appearance in front of Malibu district court Judge Mira,
where all was tied up from his stint in Corcoran State Prison. Mira
wished Downey good luck and sent him on his way.
Robert Sings Dec 2000
He is featured on two tracks of the new album A Very Ally Christmas.
The songs are River and White Christmas which he sang in the Nov 27
episode of Ally McBeal. The album is available now,
or preview them on MP3 via Napster. [ED. Geez. How antiquated is that reference?]
Appeal to Reason 30 Nov 2000
The prosecutor's appeal of his August 2000 release from Corcoran State
prison was denied. He was not on parole or out on bail Thanksgiving
weekend, factors which significantly reduce the maximum sentence he
could receive for his latest arrest).
Arrested Development 30 Nov 2000
Thanksgiving weekend he was arrested in Palm Springs for possession of
cocaine and methamphetamines, being under the influence of a controlled
substance. He is out on bail and will go before a judge December 27.
Robert Sings Live 18 Nov 2000
He made a special appearance this past weekend at L.A.'s House of Blues
at Ally co-star Vonda Shepard's show. He performed U2's With or Without You.
Not to Be Nov 2000
The Mel Gibson stage production of Hamlet, which was scheduled to be in
L.A. January 2001, and star Robert Downey Jr. as the tortured prince has
been postponed.
Black and White Out Sep 2000
Black and White is now available to rent on video and DVD.