Robert Downey Jr. has denied he based his Tropic Thunder character on Russell Crowe - offering the star an apology for the misunderstanding.

The Iron Man actor plays a rugged Australian movie star in the new film, and his portrayal has led to comparisons with Crowe. However, Downey Jr. insists he wasn't channeling Crowe when he shot the picture - and has apologized to the star for any offense it may have caused.

He says, "I certainly wasn't trying to impersonate him. I have such high esteem for the guy that, honestly, I would feel so bad if he was in any way offended - because it wasn't my intention."

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(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)