How kung-fu saved Downey Jr

Robert Downey Jr. used “a rigorous form of Chinese martial arts to help beat his addiction”, it has been claimed. According to TMZ.com, Eric Oram (pictured above with Downey Jr.), who teaches Wing Chun Kung Fu, a “Chinese Boxing System”, explained in a letter how the actor had approached him, seeking help. Oram — who had trained under Bruce Lee’s mentor — had initially rejected the star’s application 12 years ago and believed Downey Jr.’s addiction was a “losing battle”.

A woman who Oram contacted even said: “Robert will never change, nor does he want to”. But Oram still decided to go ahead and in his letter has described how the two became close friends and worked in over 17 films together. The martial arts expert added that he used discipline to “rewire the actor’s mind and body”. “It’s difficult to recognise the Robert that stepped into my academy 12 years ago,” he wrote.