Robert Downey Jr. might have to make amends for his memorable gaffe. Despite presenting the Best Original Screenplay and Best Adapted Screenplay alongside fellow Marvel star Chris Evans at the 2026 Oscars, hosted by Conan O’Brien at the Dolby Theater in Hollywood on March 15, he found himself in the midst of an all-time great mix-up, reminiscent of John Travolta’s infamous “Adele Dazeem” moment.
As he joked about forgetting a gift for their friend’s anniversary, Robert confidently mispronounced Channing Tatum’s name. “Of course I got you something,” he said from the stage. “I got you the official Tanning Chatum thong from Magic Mike. It’s sequined and it’s got a mirror ball effect. Light usage.” The audience was in stitches, with Channing himself shouting from the audience, “Hey, I’m gonna need that back! I gotta work later!”
While Robert had a great time presenting Paul Thomas Anderson and Ryan Coogler with their first Oscars of the night for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Original Screenplay respectively, he also enjoyed his own winning moments two years prior. Before taking home the 2024 Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in Oppenheimer, he praised his wife Susan Downey for her unwavering support.
“Now why have I added my wife’s name to this list of otherwise super talented artists that I have learned so much from, up-close, over these last 40 years?” he asked during his Actor Awards speech. “It’s because for 22 years, she has flawlessly portrayed a sane and rational individual who is happily married to an actor.”
The Iron Man star has previously showered Susan with love on social media for their wedding anniversaries and other milestones. In November 2022, while celebrating his wife’s birthday, he wrote a heartfelt post that recognized all she does for their family. “At the heart of every family (if you’re fortunate), you’ll find a mother,” he wrote. “A fiercely sophisticated protector, nurturer, teacher, and friend... Susan Downey, happy birthday - you are all that (and a party-sized bag of chips).”
As for how they’ve made their marriage last so long? Robert explained the secret to Parade in 2020, saying, "We just genuinely love hanging out." He added, "I defer to her. I just wasn't raised right, so chances are, I'm gonna have some caca take on things."
