Robert De Niro

Robert Anthony De Niro (pronounced dә NEER-oh), born on 17 August 1943, in New York City, is an acclaimed American actor and film producer. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation. Throughout his career, De Niro has received numerous awards, including two Academy Awards and a Golden Globe Award. He has also garnered nominations for eight BAFTA Awards and four Emmy Awards. In recognition of his contributions to the film industry, he received the AFI Life Achievement Award in 2003, the Kennedy Center Honors in 2009, the Cecil B. DeMille Award in 2011, and the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award in 2019. De Niro was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom by former President Barack Obama in 2016.

De Niro began his acting education at HB Studio, studied at the Stella Adler Conservatory, and trained with Lee Strasberg at the Actors Studio. He made his on-screen debut in Brian De Palma's film Greetings in 1968. His breakthrough came with his collaboration with Martin Scorsese in the 1973 crime drama Mean Streets, marking the start of a prolific partnership that would shape his career.

Among De Niro's most significant achievements are his Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor in The Godfather Part II (1974) and Best Actor for his role in Raging Bull (1980), where he portrayed the boxer Jake LaMotta. He was also nominated for his performances in Taxi Driver (1976), The Deer Hunter (1978), Awakenings (1990), Cape Fear (1991), Silver Linings Playbook (2012), and Killers of the Flower Moon (2023).

In addition to his dramatic roles, De Niro has made significant contributions to comedy, starring in films such as Meet the Parents (2000) and its sequels, as well as Analyze This (1999) and its sequel Analyze That (2002). He also showcased his directorial skills in A Bronx Tale (1993) and The Good Shepherd (2006).

De Niro co-founded TriBeCa Productions in 1989, producing numerous films, and also established the Tribeca Film Festival in 2002, which has become a significant cultural event in the film industry. His films include classics that have been inducted into the U.S. National Film Registry for their cultural significance.

Born into a family of artists, De Niro's early life was shaped by his parents, Robert De Niro Sr. and Virginia Admiral, both painters. He was raised in Manhattan's Greenwich Village and Little Italy. Despite his parents' separation when he was just two years old, he maintained a close relationship with his father, who was a significant influence during his childhood.

De Niro's education included attending PS 41, where he began acting at a young age, later transferring to several schools focused on the arts. He eventually dropped out of high school at 16 to pursue acting full-time.

Throughout his career, De Niro has remained committed to his craft, often immersing himself in his roles. He has worked with some of the most renowned directors, including Scorsese, Coppola, and Bertolucci, delivering memorable performances that have left an indelible mark on cinema. His range of roles—from intense dramas to light-hearted comedies—showcases his versatility as an actor.

De Niro is also known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in the arts and education. He has spoken out on various social issues and has supported numerous charitable organizations.

His personal life has been as colorful as his film career. De Niro has been married twice and has seven children, including two adopted children from his first marriage. He has also faced public scrutiny regarding his opinions on political matters, often expressing strong views on various issues.

As he continues his career, Robert De Niro remains a significant figure in Hollywood, constantly adapting and evolving as an actor and producer. His contributions to film and his influence on the industry are undeniable, ensuring his legacy as one of the legends of American cinema.