When the sequel to the blockbuster hit Iron Man arrived, fans were taken aback to see Don Cheadle replacing Terrence Howard as James “Rhodey” Rhodes.
While some applauded the change, others were dismayed.
Now, years later, Terrence Howard has spoken out about the circumstances surrounding his departure and the deep disappointment he feels toward his former co-star, Robert Downey Jr.
A Helping Hand in Tough Times
Terrence Howard played a crucial role in Robert Downey Jr.’s casting as Tony Stark.
In an interview on The Joe Rogan Experience, Howard revealed that he was instrumental in getting Downey Jr. the audition that led to his iconic role.
At the time, Downey Jr. was battling severe drug addiction, which left him sidelined in Hollywood.
Howard shared that Susan Downey, who was shooting for The Brave One then, approached him asking for help. “Susan came over to my trailer and said, ‘Robert really wants to go in, but they won’t see him,'” Howard recalled.
Howard shared a conversation he had with Avi Arad, the producer of Iron Man. “I told Avi, ‘Instead of giving me $4.5 million, take a million for Robert’s bond and let him audition,'” Howard recounted.
“So he gets the part. Robert is like, ‘I love you. Thank you so much.’” Howard continued.
His selfless act helped rejuvenate Downey Jr.’s career, earning him the role that would define his comeback.
If it hadn’t been for Howard’s help, the role might have gone to Clive Davis, as they wanted him back then.
A Broken Deal and a Silent Friend
After the success of the first Iron Man movie, Howard was promised a lucrative three-picture deal.
However, when it came time to negotiate for Iron Man 2, Marvel Studios drastically reduced his pay from the agreed $8 million to just $1 million.
Howard’s agent reacted emotionally to this unexpected turn, leading to the abrupt termination of the deal.
In his time of need, Howard reached out to Downey Jr., who was then immersed in filming Sherlock Holmes.
Howard tried contacting Downey Jr. 27 times, leaving messages and even speaking to his assistant. “I called him 27 times… I needed the help I gave you,” Howard said in his interview.
Yet, he received no response until three years later when they bumped into each other at a wedding.
By then, Howard had found success with the TV show Empire. Downey Jr.’s casual remark, “Oh, but everything worked out for you,” felt like a stab to Howard, “You know, that… that broke me a little bit.”
Howard’s disappointment stems not only from losing a significant role but also from feeling abandoned by someone he had once supported.
The studio’s decision to recast his character with Don Cheadle came amidst personal turmoil, including the loss of his mother.
The actor has described the incident as a professional and personal setback, which he has since worked hard to move past.