Robert John Downey Sr. (born Robert Elias Jr.; June 24, 1936) is an American movie director, screenwriter and actor. He is the father of actor Robert Downey Jr.. Downey Sr. is best known for writing and directing the underground movie "Putney Swope". He retired in 2013. Downey Sr. was born in New York City. Downey Sr. starred in "Johnny Be Good", "Hail Caesar" and "Tower Heist".