5. Robert Downey Jr. (Iron Man) - The Marvel Cinematic Universe
Talk about a comeback. After a troubled period of drug abuse, arrests and lost job opportunities in the late 90s and early 2000s, Robert Downey Jr. finally began to bounce back in the mid-2000s with a string of acclaimed parts in mostly independent features, before eventually landing the part of Tony Stark for Jon Favreau's Iron Man. Despite initially intending to cast an unknown actor in the part, Favreau opted for Downey because he felt that his past experiences would make him more believable as the alcoholic Stark, and that his breezy personality could help him play the character as a "likable a**hole". Favreau's instinct turned out to be golden, as the movie received rave reviews from critics, with Downey being singled out as its greatest asset. Downey's quick, hilarious wit, unique vocal inflections and obvious real-life engagement with Tony's own personal woes made him an instant hit with fans, allowing Downey to enjoy three Iron Man films to date, and two Avengers flicks (the second of which is now filming). What's more, Downey's involvement as the figurehead of The Avengers allowed him to net an unprecedented payday for the comic book genre, reportedly banking $50 million for The Avengers alone.