Robert Downey Jr. is feeling the sting of disappointing reviews following his Broadway debut in the play McNeal, currently showing at Lincoln Center Theater in New York City.
The Oscar-winning actor took on the challenging role of a celebrated novelist grappling with alcoholism and mental illness.
However, the critical reception has not been kind, leaving Downey reportedly “shattered” by the negative press.
Insiders reveal that the Iron Man star had high hopes for the project, which is written by Ayad Akhtar.
“Robert took a bold leap from the silver screen to the stage, but the brutal reviews have hit him hard,” a source told Closer Weekly.
The play has been described as “dull and garbled,” focusing on themes of ethics and artificial intelligence while failing to fully engage audiences.
Despite the harsh critiques, some reviewers acknowledged Downey’s efforts. The New York Times noted his struggle to bring life to a difficult character. “
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The play needs him to be outrageous enough to support its outré plot points,” the review stated, emphasizing the challenges Downey faced in making the character relatable.
While McNeal may not be garnering the accolades Downey hoped for, his film career remains robust.
He and his wife, Susan, are in talks to produce The Hider, a film adaptation based on a short story by Julianna Baggott, with Downey set to take the lead role.
Additionally, he is gearing up to return to the Marvel universe as Dr. Doom in two upcoming Avengers films.