Robert Downey Jr. earned $50 million for 'The Avengers'

HOLLYWOOD, May 4 (UPI) -- U.S actor Robert Downey Jr. said he earned approximately $50 million after box-office bonuses for his role as Iron Man in last year's "The Avengers."

Downey confirmed his salary in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter in which he said he also received back-end compensation for his role in the film.

"Isn't that crazy?" he said. "They're so pissed. I can't believe it. I'm what's known as a 'strategic cost.'"

"The Avengers" is the third-highest grossing film of all time worldwide, the entertainment industry publication said. The film earned an estimated $1.5 billion at the global box office.

Downey's latest film, "Iron Man 3," is expected to gross a $150 million this weekend in its U.S. debut.

The film has already grossed $345.4 million internationally through Thursday, The Hollywood Reporter said.