Robert Downey Jr. Praises Timothée Chalamet Ahead of Dunesday Showdown

Marty Supreme’s impressive run at the box office has put any doubts about Timothée Chalamet’s star power to rest. Now, with Robert Downey Jr.—one of Hollywood ’s most celebrated actors —publicly recognizing Chalamet as one of the greats, the young star’s reputation has reached new heights.

Downey’s Candid Admiration for Chalamet

Reflecting on his own early days in the industry, Downey recalled a moment with director Norman Jewison during the filming of Only You. He once asked Jewison if he considered him among the greats, to which Jewison replied,

“That remains to be seen.”

Years later, Downey turned the spotlight on Chalamet, declaring that, in his case, the answer is already clear.

“I go, ‘Norman, I think I am one of the greats. I want you to tell me if you agree with that.’ He looked at me like I was nuts. He said, ‘Well, Mr. Downey, that remains to be seen.’ And I want to say in front of God and everyone in this audience here with you that as of ‘Marty Supreme,’ it no longer remains to be seen. Let’s hear it for, Timothée Chalamet.”

Such recognition from Downey, who earned an Oscar nod in his twenties for Chaplin, is no small feat. Chalamet’s career trajectory suggests he’s on track to become one of the industry’s defining talents.

Chalamet’s Meteoric Rise in Hollywood

Fresh off the success of Marty Supreme, Chalamet has proven himself as a major box office force at a time when traditional movie stardom is rare. Downey’s praise isn’t just flattery—Chalamet’s body of work already places him among the most influential actors of his generation.

From standout performances in Denis Villeneuve’s Dune to a string of original holiday hits, Chalamet’s ability to pick compelling roles has set him apart. Though he’s been in the Oscar conversation for a while, his recent Golden Globe win for Marty Supreme has made him a frontrunner for this year’s Academy Awards. His blend of commercial appeal and critical acclaim makes Downey’s endorsement all the more fitting.

Box Office Face-Off: Dune 3 vs. Avengers: Doomsday

With Dune 3 and Avengers: Doomsday both locked in for December 18, 2026, Downey and Chalamet are poised to compete for box office dominance. While Doomsday, as an Avengers film, is expected to draw massive crowds, the question remains whether their simultaneous release could spark a cultural phenomenon like Barbenheimer did.

Despite both films being highly anticipated, they may not capture the same unique energy that made Barbenheimer a sensation. The earlier event thrived on the contrast between Oppenheimer and Barbie, attracting diverse audiences. In contrast, Dune 3 and Doomsday both fall into the blockbuster sci-fi category, which could limit the novelty factor.

Still, both movies are expected to perform well. Doomsday will likely see a huge opening, while Dune: Part Three could benefit from strong word of mouth and steady attendance over time.

Do you agree with Downey’s take on Chalamet’s place in the industry? Share your thoughts below!

Dune 3 and Avengers: Doomsday are set to hit theaters on December 18, 2026.

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