💰The Highest-Grossing Movies of Robert Downey Jr. (RDJ): From Iron Man to Hollywood Royalty

Few actors have shaped modern cinema the way Robert Downey Jr. has. From his early struggles in Hollywood to becoming Tony Stark / Iron Man, the heart of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, RDJ’s story is nothing short of legendary. His charm, intelligence, and unforgettable performances have made him one of the most beloved — and highest-paid — actors in the world.

We’ll take a look at the highest-grossing movies of Robert Downey Jr., exploring how he became one of the biggest box office draws of all time.

🚀 1. Avengers: Endgame (2019)

Worldwide Box Office: $2.799 billion

Director: Anthony & Joe Russo

Genre: Action / Superhero

No surprises here — Avengers: Endgame isn’t just RDJ’s highest-grossing film, it’s one of the biggest movies in cinematic history. Robert Downey Jr.’s emotional farewell as Tony Stark delivered one of the most iconic endings ever.

The film broke countless records, earning nearly $2.8 billion worldwide. RDJ’s performance as the self-sacrificing hero cemented his legacy forever. “I am Iron Man” became more than a line — it became a piece of movie history.

Where to Watch: Disney+

🧨 2. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)

Worldwide Box Office: $2.052 billion

Director: Anthony & Joe Russo

Genre: Action / Sci-Fi

Before Endgame, there was Infinity War — the movie that left the world in shock. RDJ’s portrayal of Iron Man facing Thanos was intense, emotional, and deeply human. The film’s massive global success proved how powerful the Marvel brand had become, largely thanks to Downey’s leadership as Tony Stark.

Where to Watch: Disney+

🦸 3. The Avengers (2012)

Worldwide Box Office: $1.519 billion

Director: Joss Whedon

Genre: Action / Adventure

The movie that changed superhero cinema forever. The Avengers brought together Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, and the Hulk for the first time — a gamble that paid off with over $1.5 billion at the global box office.

RDJ’s quick wit, swagger, and charisma made Tony Stark the standout of the ensemble cast. His chemistry with his co-stars, especially Chris Evans and Mark Ruffalo, helped define the tone of the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

Where to Watch: Disney+

⚔️ 4. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)

Worldwide Box Office: $1.403 billion

Director: Joss Whedon

Genre: Action / Superhero

The second Avengers film continued the massive success of the franchise. RDJ’s Tony Stark plays a central role, creating Ultron — the artificial intelligence that turns against humanity.

While not as universally praised as Infinity War or Endgame, Age of Ultron was still a financial juggernaut, showing RDJ’s continued box office power and his importance as the emotional core of the MCU.

Where to Watch: Disney+

🧠 5. Iron Man 3 (2013)

Worldwide Box Office: $1.215 billion

Director: Shane Black

Genre: Action / Sci-Fi

Iron Man 3 marked a turning point in Tony Stark’s journey — a story about vulnerability, trauma, and identity beyond the armor. RDJ’s performance was both emotionally rich and action-packed.

The movie became one of the first solo superhero films to cross $1 billion at the box office, reaffirming RDJ’s star power. It remains one of the most beloved standalone films in the MCU.

Where to Watch: Disney+

🕵️‍♂️ 6. Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows (2011)

Worldwide Box Office: $543 million

Director: Guy Ritchie

Genre: Mystery / Action

RDJ brought a brilliant, eccentric energy to Sherlock Holmes — a role that earned him critical acclaim and a Golden Globe. The sequel, A Game of Shadows, expanded the action and introduced the infamous Moriarty as Holmes’ nemesis.

The film’s mix of humor, mystery, and steampunk style made it a global hit. RDJ’s chemistry with Jude Law as Dr. Watson remains one of the best detective duos in film history.

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV

🔫 7. Sherlock Holmes (2009)

Worldwide Box Office: $524 million

Director: Guy Ritchie

Genre: Mystery / Adventure

The first Sherlock Holmes rebooted the classic detective story for modern audiences — full of sharp dialogue, clever deductions, and stylish action.

Downey’s Holmes was witty, unpredictable, and utterly magnetic. The success of this film set up a new franchise outside of Marvel and reminded audiences of RDJ’s versatility.

Where to Watch: Netflix and Prime Video

👽 8. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)

Worldwide Box Office: $880 million

Director: Jon Watts

Genre: Action / Adventure

RDJ reprised his role as Tony Stark, this time mentoring a young Peter Parker (Tom Holland). His presence gave the film emotional weight and legitimacy, helping Homecoming become a massive success for both Marvel and Sony.

Even though it wasn’t his movie, RDJ’s charm and mentorship dynamic with Spider-Man became one of the film’s highlights.

Where to Watch: Disney+ and Netflix

✈️ 9. Captain America: Civil War (2016)

Worldwide Box Office: $1.153 billion

Director: Anthony & Joe Russo

Genre: Action / Superhero

Civil War was essentially Avengers 2.5, focusing on the ideological clash between Iron Man and Captain America. RDJ’s nuanced performance as a guilt-ridden Tony Stark gave the film emotional power, turning a comic book story into a heartfelt drama.

The film’s global success proved that any movie with Robert Downey Jr. in the MCU instantly became an event.

Where to Watch: Disney+

💼 10. Tropic Thunder (2008)

Worldwide Box Office: $195 million

Director: Ben Stiller

Genre: Comedy / Satire

Before Iron Man made him a global icon, RDJ shocked audiences with his hilarious, over-the-top role as Kirk Lazarus in Tropic Thunder. His fearless performance earned him an Oscar nomination and reminded the world that he was not just a blockbuster star — he was an incredible actor.

Where to Watch: Netflix

🏆 Conclusion

From billionaire genius to master detective, Robert Downey Jr. has proven that no role is beyond his reach. With a filmography that spans from heartfelt comedies to billion-dollar superhero epics, RDJ has achieved something few in Hollywood ever have — critical acclaim and box office dominance.

As he continues to explore new projects like Sherlock Holmes 3 and The Sympathizer, one thing is clear: RDJ’s cinematic legacy is untouchable, and audiences around the world will keep showing up for him — again and again.