Robert Downey Jr., an actor self-aware of his boundaries, graces the screen in the new four-part documentary series, "SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night," which delves deeply into the storied history and enduring legacy of the legendary late-night sketch comedy show, "Saturday Night Live." Now 59, the star of "Iron Man" fame featured prominently in this docuseries.
During the show's 11th season, which aired from 1985 to 1986, Downey was part of its ensemble cast. At the tender age of 20, he expressed gratitude for his fleeting time on "SNL," highlighting how it played a pivotal role in shaping his understanding of his performing niche. "In that year, I gained immense insight into what I wasn't meant to do. Yet, regardless of your talent, there aren't 90 minutes more exhilarating than those on 'SNL,'" he reminisced.
The "Oppenheimer" actor further disclosed that his good friend Anthony Michael Hall, who was also cast in the 1985-1986 season, was instrumental in landing him the gig. "Michael Hall told me, 'I'm joining 'SNL.' I'll arrange an audition for you, and I bet you'll make the cut too,'" Downey recounted with fondness.
Hall, who made an appearance in the docuseries and holds the distinction of being the youngest cast member ever hired at just 17, shared his own tumultuous experience working on the comedy powerhouse. "In retrospect, it was challenging," he admitted in his interview, acknowledging that the show's writers faced a daunting task creating material for such a youthful actor. "For many writers, figuring out how to write for this kid was a colossal hurdle," he elaborated.
Season 11 boasted a lineup of other now-celebrated performers, including Joan Cusack, Damon Wayans, Randy Quaid, Jon Lovitz, and Al Franken. However, this season is widely regarded as one of the weakest by both "SNL" fans and critics, prompting the replacement of several cast members by season 12. "I aimed for a younger vibe," revealed "SNL" creator Lorne Michaels in the same docuseries. "Perhaps I went overly young, but I was determined to infuse freshness. The Baby Boomer generation had dominated for a decade, so I decided it was time for a shake-up."
Despite his tumultuous tenure on "SNL," Downey's career flourished unabated. An Oscar winner, he has garnered numerous awards and nominations over the years, cementing his status as one of the highest-grossing film actors of all time, largely due to his iconic role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, according to Collider.
Moreover, Downey has emerged as a beacon of support within the industry, particularly for young performers still navigating their paths. "If he spots a performance he admires, he'll go out of his way to connect with that individual, especially if they're upcoming and young," his wife, film producer Susan Downey, 51, exclusively shared with PEOPLE in 2024. "If he knows someone is struggling, he'll reach out, to the extent that people now direct struggling talents towards him, knowing he'll make the time. It's a testament to his appreciation for his journey and the people who stood by him during his tumultuous times," she added, painting a vivid picture of his compassionate demeanor.
