Robert Downey Jr. surprise appearance at ‘Iron Man 3’ screening for Sandy aid workers

Robert Downey Jr. image by Featureflash/Shutterstock

Robert Downey Jr. plays the arrogant and indifferent role to perfection, but he’s anything but. The actor showed that when he made a surprise appearance at an an Iron Man 3 screening held for teenage aid workers in New York.

With more recent tragedies, it’s easy for those not affected to forget about the devastation left by Superstorm Sandy, which caused 159 deaths and over $70 billion in damages. Robert Downey Jr. wanted to do something special for those who logged long hours helping clean up and repair the area. He made a surprise appearance at an Iron Man 3 screening that was specifically for teenagers who had volunteered with the Police Athletic League to aid in the relief efforts.

He told the crowd, “I just want to say thank you to the… Police Athletic League and all of you folks. I know you’re all here because you’ve been doing something special in the five boroughs, for this great city.

You’re the future of the nation. I guarantee if you keep doing the right thing, you’re going to be running the joint in a minute.”

I’m not sure if any of them will be running the joint, but you have to appreciate the sentiment. These are kids who took it upon themselves to make a difference, and it seems fitting for them to be recognized. I don’t think any of them expected to be shaking hands and taking pictures with Robert Downey Jr. just because they wanted to do something good for the city.

I’ve often said that I get more out of the volunteer work than I put in, but I still wouldn’t mind a random Iron Man drop in.

Robert Downey, Jr. Thrills Sandy Volunteers At Iron Man Screening [Contact Music]