About the Show

Discover humanity's complexities in Akhtar's new play, starring Robert Downey Jr.

Robert Downey Jr. takes the stage as Jacob McNeal, a literary icon on the verge of winning the Nobel Prize in Literature. Known for his dynamic performances, Downey Jr. captivates audiences in this role filled with emotional depth and complexity. The character McNeal is not only celebrated for his literary genius but also faces personal struggles, including estrangement from his family, unresolved past conflicts, and a growing obsession with Artificial Intelligence.

This Broadway play, penned by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Ayad Akhtar, delves into the intersection of humanity, technology, and the future of storytelling. Directed by Tony Award-winning Bartlett Sher, the production offers a profound exploration of AI's impact on literature and human relationships.

The reviews for McNeal Broadway are in! RDJ on Broadway brings a fresh perspective to Akhtar's thought-provoking narrative, blending Downey Jr.'s magnetic presence with cutting-edge themes.

Critic Reviews (14)

"McNeal, played by the formidable Robert Downey Jr., is more a data set than a character."
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"McNeal aims to blur the lines that separate real stories from fictional ones"
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Robert Downey Jr. brings real acting chops to an AI-centric play
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"McNeal’s woozy ruminations about art and technology might strike with more force"
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"Downey creditably plays down his natural magnetism even as he unavoidably displays it"
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“…suffers from too many unbelievable characters and situations."
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"this new play on the hot topic of Artificial Intelligence seems unfocused and confused"
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The kind of play where little happens but much is discussed.
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Trailer

Creative team