“In my country, we are fighting fiercely to preserve the democracy we once took for granted. This struggle affects us all — it affects everyone here — because the arts are inherently democratic,” De Niro declared.
The 81-year-old made these remarks after receiving an honorary Palme d’Or in recognition of his distinguished career. He was also the subject of a tribute by fellow actor Leonardo DiCaprio, who lauded De Niro as a role model revered by generations of performers.
“Art is inclusive; it unites people,” De Niro continued.
“Art seeks truth and celebrates diversity. That is precisely why it poses a threat — a threat to autocrats and fascists. And that is why we, as artists, are seen as a threat.”
De Niro’s filmography includes numerous works considered classics of American cinema. As of 2023, six of his films have been inducted into the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.” Additionally, five of his films are featured on the American Film Institute’s list of the 100 greatest American films of all time.
Born on August 17, 1943, De Niro is widely regarded as one of the most influential actors of his generation. His extensive list of accolades includes two Academy Awards, a Golden Globe Award, and nominations for eight BAFTA Awards and four Emmy Awards. He has also received numerous lifetime achievement honors, including the AFI Life Achievement Award (2003), the Kennedy Center Honors (2009), the Cecil B. DeMille Award (2011), the Presidential Medal of Freedom (2016), the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award (2019), and the Honorary Palme d’Or (2025).
