Veteran actor Robert Downey Jr. recently made headlines for his high praise of Timothée Chalamet, affirming what many fans have long suspected about the young star’s craft. At a public event tied to the awards season, Downey didn’t hold back, calling Chalamet “one of the greats” of his generation and highlighting his evolving talent in film after years of standout roles.
The comments come as Chalamet continues to gain momentum in his career, particularly after his critically acclaimed work in Marty Supreme, which has earned him major awards including a Golden Globe and a Critics’ Choice Award for Best Actor. Downey’s support adds a powerful endorsement from a respected, decades-long Hollywood figure known for his own iconic career.
Downey’s praise was not generic. In the conversation, he reflected on first seeing Chalamet in earlier roles and noted how much the actor has grown, both technically and emotionally, in his performances. Calling Chalamet an “evolved” actor and praising Marty Supreme as “mind-blowing,” Downey made it clear that he believes Chalamet’s work stands alongside the achievements of some of the most respected names in film.
Robert Downey Jr. and Timothée Chalamet at the ‘MARTY SUPREME’ screening at the Directors Guild of America in Los Angeles. pic.twitter.com/SbNFjmrDvW
— Timothée Chalamet Updates (@timotheeupdates) January 15, 2026
For Chalamet, this moment is part of a larger breakthrough period. Beyond his recent awards, he has built a diverse portfolio over the last decade, from Call Me by Your Name to Wonka, Dune: Part Two and A Complete Unknown. His trajectory shows not just early promise but sustained excellence and ambition.
Many in the industry see Downey’s words not just as praise but as recognition of Chalamet’s lasting impact on cinema at a relatively young age. Being called “one of the greats” by someone of Downey’s stature is a notable moment in Chalamet’s evolving legacy, and it highlights how his combination of daring role choices and consistent growth is resonating with audiences and peers alike.
Whether audiences agree with the label yet or not, one thing is undeniable: Chalamet’s star continues to rise, and his growing list of accolades, paired with praise from established icons like Downey, suggests Hollywood is watching closely as he defines the next era of leading men.