Sarah Jessica Parker and Robert Downey Jr. met in 1984 on the set of the movie “Firstborn” when they were both just 18 years old. Within a few weeks of dating, they moved in together in Los Angeles. Their relationship was full of iconic 1980s outfits, great film roles, and glamorous parties, but it was also marked by seven years of heartache, addiction, fear, and stress due to Downey Jr.’s substance abuse issues. Despite the challenges, Parker stayed with him, making her feel like a parent at the age of 22.
The couple eventually split in 1991 when Parker realized she couldn’t continue to help her troubled love. She then moved back to New York and later dated John F. Kennedy Jr. before marrying Matthew Broderick in 1997. Around the time of the split, Downey Jr. hit rock bottom due to his addiction issues. He served 12 months in prison for repeatedly missing court-ordered drug tests but has been sober since 2003 and married to Susan Downey since 2005.
Despite their tumultuous relationship, both Parker and Downey Jr. have spoken candidly about their time together in interviews. Parker mentioned in 2023 that she provided stability and tried to create a steady heartbeat for Downey Jr., but she also felt angry and embarrassed by the situation. The couple met up in 2015 to get closure on their relationship, and both agreed that they still cared for each other and respected one another.
In a 2020 interview, Parker revealed that her relationship with Downey Jr. influenced her parenting style. She felt as though she was caring for him in a way that was more suitable for a parent, which may have influenced how she raised her children with Broderick. Downey Jr. has also fondly remembered his time with Parker, acknowledging her efforts to help him during his struggles with addiction. Despite their challenges, the couple’s reunion in 2016 was described as surprisingly not weird, and they both seem to have matured and moved on positively from their past experiences.
Looking back on their time together, Parker and Downey Jr. have expressed gratitude for the lessons learned and the growth they experienced during their relationship. Despite the difficulties they faced, the couple is now mature and measured, with successful careers and families of their own. Their journey testifies to the complexities of relationships, the power of love, and the growth that can come from even the most challenging circumstances.
