Long before they became one of Hollywood’s most admired power couples, Susan Downey’s first impression of Robert Downey Jr. was anything but romantic. In fact, she openly admits that their initial encounter in 2003 left her wondering whether the talented actor was completely eccentric.
The pair first crossed paths while working on the supernatural thriller Gothika, which was being filmed in Montreal. At the time, Susan was a 29-year-old producer focused on her career, while Robert Downey Jr., then 38, was rebuilding his life and reputation following years of personal struggles. Neither could have predicted that a simple lunch meeting would become the beginning of a relationship that would last more than two decades.
According to Susan, their first real interaction took place during a professional lunch attended by several members of the film’s creative team, including director Mathieu Kassovitz and star Halle Berry. The setting appeared perfectly ordinary. Cast and crew members gathered to enjoy a meal together, discussing the project and getting to know one another.
Then Robert arrived with a surprise.
While everyone else ordered Japanese food from the restaurant, he reportedly reached into his belongings and produced his own supply of oatmeal packets. Rather than quietly eating them, he enthusiastically launched into a passionate explanation about the health benefits of oatmeal, describing it as the ultimate superfood.
For Susan, the moment was unexpected and more than a little unusual.
If the oatmeal lecture was not memorable enough, Robert apparently had another surprise waiting. He brought along a wooden box filled with various herbs and wellness items, further adding to the unconventional image he was creating. Yet the strangest moment was still to come.
In the middle of lunch, without warning, Robert stood up and began performing a series of yoga movements. The spontaneous display left Susan both amused and bewildered. Watching him stretch and move while everyone else was eating lunch was not exactly typical Hollywood behavior.
Susan later recalled thinking that Robert was undoubtedly talented and intelligent, but also incredibly weird.
At the time, there was no dramatic romantic spark, no cinematic moment of instant attraction, and certainly no indication that the two would eventually build a life together. Their first meeting looked more like an awkward workplace encounter than the beginning of a love story.
Yet that unconventional lunch turned out to be the foundation of something extraordinary. As they continued working together on Gothika, the pair gradually developed a connection that grew far beyond the film set. Their relationship eventually led to marriage, and over the years they became known not only for their personal partnership but also for their successful professional collaborations.
Looking back, Susan’s recollection highlights one of the most charming truths about lasting relationships: they do not always begin with perfection. Sometimes they start with oatmeal packets, mysterious herbs, and unexpected yoga poses in the middle of lunch.
What once seemed bizarre became unforgettable, and that strange first impression ultimately evolved into a marriage that has endured for more than twenty years.a