Internet thrilled as Robert Downey Jr wins first Oscar, ‘Oppenheimer’ actor humorously credits ‘terrible childhood’ for win

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Robert Downey Jr finally clinched his first Oscar. He won the Best Supporting Actor award for his role in 'Oppenheimer' at the 2024 Academy Awards.

It was an emotional victory for the actor, and fans across social media rejoiced on seeing him receive this long-awaited recognition for his talent and dedication.

Downey's performance in 'Oppenheimer' left a lasting impression, earning him widespread acclaim.

In a recent interview, Christopher Nolan, who directed Downey in the film, shared insights into their first encounter. Nolan admitted to feeling nervous about meeting the iconic 'Iron Man' star, recalling their initial meeting during auditions for 'Batman Begins' back in 2005.

Adding to the mix, 'Titanic' actress Kate Winslet playfully reminisced about her encounter with Downey. She humorously recalled how she once thought Downey's accent was 'dreadful' when they auditioned together for a role in the 2006 film 'The Holiday.' Ultimately, the part went to Jude Law.

Robert Downey Jr bags first Oscar for 'Oppenheimer'

According to People Magazine, Downey snagged his first Oscar for Best Supporting Actor at the 2024 Academy Awards on Sunday, March 10, thanks to his portrayal of Lewis Strauss in 'Oppenheimer'.

Downey brought his cheeky sense of humor to the stage, turning the usually emotional moment into a light-hearted affair with his quick humor. He kicked off his acceptance speech by quipping, "I'd like to thank my terrible childhood and the Academy, in that order."

The 'Avengers Endgame' star went on to express his heartfelt gratitude to his wife, Susan, by saying, "I'd like to thank my veterinarian — I meant wife — Susan Downey over there. She found me, a snarling rescue pet, and loved me back to life. That's why I am here. Thank you."

Downey made sure to acknowledge everyone who played a part in his journey to this achievement. He thanked director Nolan, the talented writer, producer, and director of 'Oppenheimer', as well as producer Emma Thomas and his fellow cast members Cillian Murphy, Emily Blunt, and Matt Damon.

Sharing a personal secret, Downey admitted, "I needed this job more than it needed me. Chris knew it, Emma made sure she wrapped — surrounded me with one of the greatest cast and crews of all time. Emily, Cillian, Matt Damon ... it was fantastic and I stand here before you a better man because of it. You know, what we do is meaningful, and the stuff that we decide to make is important."

Downey didn't forget to thank his stylist, publicist, and entertainment lawyer, adding a humorous touch by joking about his lawyer spending half of their 40-year partnership "trying to get me insured and bailing me out".

He was nominated for this category alongside Sterling K Brown for 'American Fiction', Robert De Niro for 'Killers of the Flower Moon', Ryan Gosling for 'Barbie', and Mark Ruffalo for 'Poor Things'.

This victory marked Downey's third nomination at the Academy Awards, with his last one dating back to 2009 for his role in 'Tropic Thunder'.

Internet asserts Robert Downey Jr 'deserved' the Oscar

After Robert Downey Jr won the 2024 Oscars for Best Supporting Actor, the Internet was filled with congratulatory messages.

One user wrote, "He carried the whole show!"

Another user wrote, "Robert Downey Jr is one of the best actors of all time, very deserved 🏆"

One user commented, "The Oscar for this performance is a given Robert Downey Jr. 🏆"

Another user commented, "I can't believe he didnt have one yet, congrats GOAT"

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.