On Friday, Robert Downey Jr. spoke about an unforgettable conversation he had with the late Ryan O'Neal during an interview at the Santa Barbara Film Festival, PEOPLE reported.

Downey Jr. reflected on a pivotal encounter with the legendary actor that left an indelible impression on him. This conversation, which took place early in the filming of the 1989 romantic comedy A Chance Are, was a memorable moment for Downey Jr., especially in the wake of his role in the darkly themed 1987 Less Than Zero. It was a turning point. according to To the people.

Robert Downey Jr. recalls co-star Ryan O'Neal potentially warning him to clean up his act, saying 'the door came off its hinges' https://t.co/oMez3ul5mG

— People (@people) February 10, 2024

Downey Jr. recalled what happened on the first day of rehearsals for the film. “We were in Washington, D.C., met up with some friends, went back to the hotel, ordered champagne,” Downey Jr. said, PEOPLE reported. “One thing led to another, and then the reading happened at 11 a.m., and then around 2:45 p.m., I was just sleeping in, and the door came off its hinges. It was Ryan O'Neal. And it was like, “I'm here to tell you, you're fine.” Oh my god, I'm fine now. ” And I thought, “Wow.” People seem to be pretty strict. ” I wasn't aware that I was late, but it was a bit of a red flag. ” (Related: Robert Downey Jr. hilariously recalls past scathing reviews as he accepts Critics Choice Award)

The incident brought Downey Jr. back to reality. Despite being enthusiastic about her work on The Chance Are, Downey Jr. questioned her transition from a very intense role to what she initially perceived as a “cheating romantic comedy.” I was holding her.

“Because that's what people want to see you do. We don't want to see you die in Palm Springs and let everyone down. We were like, 'Oh, okay.' . do not worry. ' [I’ll] Wake up in time for the next reading. Don't worry. That's what the actor explained, according to PEOPLE.