Robert Downey Jr. gave an emotional tribute Thursday to his longtime personal assistant Jimmy Rich, who died in a car accident a day earlier.
Rich, who was 52, worked with the “Iron Man” star for nearly two decades and left an impression on many stars in the Marvel universe, Deadline noted.
Rich joined Downey on “The Singing Detective” in 2003 and would be his behind-the-scenes “right hand man” in nearly two-dozen movies, Variety reported.
Citing the “terrible and shocking tragedy,” Downey wrote on Instagram: “He was a brother, my right hand man, an uncle to our kids and beloved by all who experienced his singular character and wit. Our thoughts go to his relatives, friends, co-workers, and all the fans who knew him as the man who supported every step of my recovery, life and career.
“Again, my condolences to his beautiful family, and the legacy of hope and redemption his life will continue to represent.”
Marvel also mourned Rich’s passing on Twitter.
Mark Ruffalo (the Hulk), Josh Brolin (Thanos), Jeremy Renner (Hawkeye) and Gwyneth Paltrow (Pepper Potts) were among the Marvel actors to offer condolences on Downey’s Instagram page.
Chris Evans (Captain America) wrote a separate post, saying Rich “left an indelible impression on everyone he met.”
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