Robert Downey Jr. playfully jests about a humorous incident at the 2024 Golden Globes, where Robert De Niro mistakenly believed his name was called.

Robert Downey Jr. offered a humorous response to questions about Robert De Niro’s mix-up regarding the winner of the Best Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture category on Sunday night. The Iron Man star, 58, who won the award for his role as Lewis Strauss in Oppenheimer, casually dismissed the incident when asked about De Niro mistakenly standing up during the announcement.

“Nothing’s better than losing,” Downey quipped to TMZ outside Jimmy Kimmel Live!, clarifying that he was joking and just aiming to provide a “good quote.” Despite the lighthearted banter, the two-time Oscar winner will once again compete with De Niro at the upcoming SAG Awards, where they are both nominated for Actor in a Supporting Role.

During the recent awards ceremony, De Niro seemed momentarily confused, mistakenly thinking he had won when Downey’s name was called. The mix-up was understandable given their shared first name and ‘D’ last names. Downey won for his portrayal of Lewis Strauss in Oppenheimer, while De Niro was nominated for Killers of the Flower Moon.

Host Jo Koy added to the comedic twist by poking fun at De Niro during the awards ceremony at The Beverly Hilton Hotel. Koy playfully acknowledged De Niro’s presence, joking about landing the hosting gig only 10 days prior. Despite the jest, Koy expressed genuine admiration for the iconic actor, lauding his consistent brilliance over the decades. The comedian even teased De Niro about his age, asking how he managed to become a father again at 80, to which De Niro responded with laughter.