Jeremy Renner found strength and support from a fellow Avenger during his challenging time in the hospital. The “Hawkeye” actor, at the age of 53, shared in an interview with People how Robert Downey Jr., the iconic “Iron Man,” lifted his spirits while he was recuperating from a life-threatening snowplow accident last year. Renner revealed that Downey Jr. was a constant presence, frequently checking on him during his stay in the ICU, ensuring his spirits remained high.
Renner humorously recounted their numerous FaceTime conversations. He likened these chats to dating, highlighting how Downey Jr. helped distract him from the severe pain he was enduring. Renner fondly remembered Downey Jr.’s reassurance, emphasizing the importance of looking good regardless of how one feels.
Downey Jr. also motivated Renner to recover quickly, expressing eagerness to watch more episodes of Renner’s series on Paramount+, “Mayor of Kingstown.” Renner laughed as he recalled Downey Jr.’s heartwarming encouragement, eager for Renner to return to the show.
In January 2023, Renner faced a grave situation when he was accidentally run over by his own snowplow while assisting his nephew with car trouble. The incident, which took place in Reno, Nevada, as reported by the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, resulted in Renner breaking over 30 bones. In an April interview with Diane Sawyer, Renner shared the harrowing detail of being able to “see my eye with my other eye.”
Renner celebrated ten months of recovery in November, sharing his journey of extensive physical therapy, innovative treatments, and various therapies. He emphasized the power of his mind and determination in his recovery process, calling them his greatest therapy.
Robert Downey Jr. wasn’t the only Avenger to stand by Renner’s side. Scarlett Johansson and Chris Evans, known for their roles as Black Widow and Captain America, respectively, flew to Los Angeles to visit Renner. Johansson shared her fears of potentially never seeing Renner again.
As Renner’s condition improved, Johansson, along with Evans, Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, and Mark Ruffalo, humorously conceded in an “Avengers” group chat that Renner had outdone them all in bravery.
Renner made his return to work on “Mayor of Kingstown” in January, expressing nervous excitement about his ability to perform. He also shared his readiness to reprise his role as Hawkeye in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, assuring fans of his strength and eagerness for future projects.