Robert De Niro Reflects on His Career, Political Voice, and Aging at Cannes 2025

At the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, Robert De Niro received an honorary Palme d’Or and used the occasion to deliver a passionate speech defending democracy and criticizing authoritarianism, particularly targeting Donald Trump. The actor, celebrated for a career spanning decades and films like ‘Taxi Driver’ and ‘The Godfather Part II,’ spoke about the importance of speaking out in troubled times. He emphasized the dangers of political apathy and urged public resistance to bullies and autocrats. De Niro, long a vocal critic of Trump, expressed concern over the current political climate in the U.S. and stressed the responsibility of individuals and institutions to take a stand. In conversation, he reflected on his age, legacy, and continued drive to act, while acknowledging the physical and social changes aging brings. Despite his stature and wealth, De Niro expressed a humble view of himself, grounded by his personal life and artistic roots. The interview captured a portrait of a committed artist using his platform to advocate for moral courage and civic action in the face of rising threats to democracy.