Robert De Niro

Robert De Niro: The Iconic American Actor

ABOUT

Robert Anthony De Niro Jr., born on August 17, 1943, in Manhattan, New York City, is an acclaimed American actor, producer, and director. Recognized for his intense method acting and his versatility across a myriad of roles, De Niro has solidified his status as a legendary figure in the world of cinema. Over his illustrious career, he has received numerous awards, including two Academy Awards, a Golden Globe Award, the Cecil B. DeMille Award, and the AFI Life Achievement Award.

BEFORE FAME

De Niro's journey into acting began at a young age. He attended PS 41 in Greenwich Village, Elisabeth Irwin High School, and later, the High School of Music & Art, but dropped out to pursue his dreams of acting. His formal training took place at the Stella Adler Conservatory and Lee Strasberg’s Actors Studio. Remarkably, De Niro gained recognition through his collaboration with director Martin Scorsese, which eventually led to some of his most celebrated performances in films like "Taxi Driver" (1976) and "Raging Bull" (1980).

TRIVIA

• De Niro's first significant film role was in "Bang the Drum Slowly" (1973).
• He is known for his method acting, famously gaining 60 pounds and learning to box for his role in "Raging Bull."
• De Niro co-founded the Tribeca Film Festival in 2002 to revitalize Lower Manhattan after the September 11 attacks.
• He portrayed the young Vito Corleone in "The Godfather Part II" (1974), earning his first Oscar.
• In recent years, De Niro has also become known for his comedic roles in films such as "Meet the Parents" (2000) and "The Intern" (2015).

FAMILY LIFE

Robert De Niro is the son of painters Virginia Admiral and Robert De Niro Sr. He has been married twice, first to Diahnne Abbott, with whom he has two children. His second marriage was to Grace Hightower, and they have two children together as well. Throughout his life, De Niro has been deeply private about his family, though he has spoken publicly about the struggles and joys of fatherhood.

ASSOCIATED WITH

De Niro's career is often associated with his frequent collaboration with director Martin Scorsese. Together, they have created numerous iconic films including "Goodfellas" (1990), "Casino" (1995), and "The Irishman" (2019). He has also worked alongside other prominent actors such as Al Pacino, Joe Pesci, and Meryl Streep. Moreover, his association with the Tribeca Film Festival has rendered him a significant figure in promoting independent films and new cinematic talent.

CONCLUSION

Robert De Niro's contribution to the film industry extends far beyond his unforgettable performances. His dedication to his craft, his ventures into film production, and his commitment to fostering new talent have profoundly shaped Hollywood and made him an enduring icon in cinematic history.