Robert Downey Jr. Addresses Jimmy Kimmel's Drug Abuse Joke From The Oscars

Robert Downey Jr. is responding to the joke made by Jimmy Kimmel during his Oscar monologue, which at the time, sparked speculation among viewers — whether the actor found it amusing or took offense.

Kimmel's less-than-subtle joke was about Downey Jr.'s past battles with substance abuse. In an interview with Esquire, the Academy Award winner offered clarity about the comment made. "I don't care," he said, on Monday, April 8. "I love Jimmy Kimmel. I think he's a national treasure."

During the March 10 award show, Kimmel addressed Downey Jr. before his Oscar win. "This is the highest point of Robert Downey Jr.'s long and illustrious career," he began. "Well, one of the highest points."

As the cameras turned to the actor, Downey Jr. tapped his finger to his nose, eliciting laughter from his co-star Emily Blunt, who was sitting behind him. "Is that too on-the-nose, or is that a drug motion you're making?" Kimmel responded. Downey Jr. then signaled to "keep it going" while making a rolling sign with his hands.

Later on in the show, Downey Jr. was awarded his first Oscar for his role as Lewis Stauss in Oppenheimer, which was awarded in a total of seven categories, including Best Film, Best Director, and Best Actor.

In his acceptance speech, he kept it light and added some playful humor. "I'd like to thank my terrible childhood and the Academy, in that order," he quipped.

The Avengers star also said, "I'd like to thank my veterinarian — I meant wife — Susan Downey over there. She found me, a snarling rescue pet, and loved me back to life. That's why I am here. Thank you."

Susan and Robert have been married since 2005 and share two children together, daughter Avri and son Exton. He also has a son, Indio, with his ex-wife Deborah Falconer.