Robert Downey Jr. Talks Fatherhood In New Esquire Interview

Robert Downey Jr. might play a hero in his upcoming film “The Avengers” -- but in a new interview with Esquire, he says that's not the way he wants his 2-month-old son to see him in real life.

In the magazine’s May issue, Downey Jr. discusses his parenting philosophy and celebrates the birth of Exton Elias, his son with producer Susan Downey.

“Do I want to be a hero to my son? No. I would like to be a very real human being. That’s hard enough. … [H]ero to me is not applicable to the human experience.”

Looking ahead to the future, the actor reflects on successful parenting techniques by recalling his own father's inflexibility. “Sometimes you just gotta be drop-kicked out of the nest,” he notes, adding, “There are some parents who have really done it right and told their kid, ‘You know, we have this dough, none of this is for you. You have to get your own.’”

When it comes down to it, though, the actor says he’s not trying to stick to an iron-clad regimen: “Does any new parent, even if you’re not a first-time parent, ever really know what to do? Only thing you have to do, the only requirement, if you can hack it, is to not transfer your own discomfort in the moment to this fresh soul, right?”

To read more from Robert Downey Jr. on everything from marriage to addiction and the advice that changed his life, pick up the May issue of Esquire.

From our partners

• 10 Tips For Moving (Sanely) With Little People - BabyCenter
• No One Is Obligated To Have A Second Baby - Mommyish
• 19 Children's Books Teachers Love - Circle of Moms

Comments

[Stay Up Shabazz]

10:34 AM on 04/26/2012

I've had a crush on dude for a while and I was super psyched that he's been am AWESOME Tony Stark.

Kirk Lazarus? -- dude is just talented.

[viciousvirago]

08:50 AM on 04/21/2012

I have prayed for Mr. Downey for a year or two now hoping that he stays clean and sober. He's got a lot of talent and I wish him only the best.

Here's a guy who was made for illegal narcotics: his father introduced him to weed when he was l0 or ll. They 'bonded' over weed. Enough said.

Downey has self-deprecating humor and I hope the staying power to quit the illegal stuff forever. I wish him the best in fatherhood...as long as he changes diapers, too, and not just the maid or the nanny. Long may he reign.

[aintitashame]

11:38 PM on 04/20/2012

How to be a good father: love his mother.

[hawaiianstile]

06:03 PM on 04/20/2012

i dont know much about the guy as a person, but as an actor he is bloody incredible! and i like that he doesnt intend to spoil his kid rotten because hes rich.

[Chanell Gautreaux]

11:23 AM on 04/20/2012

Dude, being a hero to your kid just means being a good person and setting an example.

[eaenkiufo]

07:35 AM on 04/20/2012

He is awesome

[Bobo Macoute]

05:18 AM on 04/20/2012

Is this a product placement ad for Esquire Magazine? Just a teaser story. Pffft.

[Fran Jaime]

12:11 AM on 04/20/2012

Gotta love him! I think with his kife experience, he'll make a great dad!

[fredjonesiii]

11:24 AM on 04/20/2012

He's one of my favorites, faults and all.

[Fran Jaime]

08:44 PM on 04/20/2012

Yep! I like that he was able to get his life together.

[PiratesForObama]

11:28 PM on 04/19/2012

Everyone is a product of their environment , and generally applicable to that rule a child that did not have the greatest of relationships with their parents goes on to be a great parent themselves.

I expect Bob to be a great pops.

[oldwolf49]

11:15 PM on 04/19/2012

He's got a kid????? When did this happen and why was I not consulted?????

[fredjonesiii]

11:24 AM on 04/20/2012

He's got a baby and an adult son.

[oldwolf49]

02:28 PM on 04/20/2012

The things that happen when you take a nap.