The Definitive Guide To Robert De Niro: An Icon's Profile

Robert De Niro is a legendary actor known for his intense performances.

Robert De Niro is an American actor who has starred in over 100 films. He is best known for his roles in "Taxi Driver", "Raging Bull", "The Godfather Part II", and "Goodfellas". De Niro has won two Academy Awards, a BAFTA Award, and a Golden Globe Award.

De Niro was born in Manhattan, New York City, the son of Robert De Niro Sr., an abstract expressionist painter, and Virginia Admiral, a poet. He attended the High School of Music & Art and the Stella Adler Conservatory. De Niro made his film debut in 1965 in Brian De Palma's "The Wedding Party". He rose to prominence in the 1970s with his roles in Martin Scorsese's "Mean Streets" and "Taxi Driver".

De Niro has a reputation for being a method actor, who immerses himself in his roles. He has gained and lost weight for roles, and has learned new skills, such as boxing and playing the saxophone. De Niro is also known for his philanthropy, and has supported many charities, including the Tribeca Film Festival and the Robert De Niro Sr. Foundation.

Robert De Niro Profile

Early Life and Career

Robert De Niro was born in Manhattan, New York City, on August 17, 1943. His father, Robert De Niro Sr., was a painter, and his mother, Virginia Admiral, was a poet. De Niro's parents divorced when he was three years old, and he was raised by his mother in Little Italy.De Niro began acting at a young age, appearing in school plays and Off-Broadway productions. He made his film debut in 1965 in Brian De Palma's "The Wedding Party". He rose to prominence in the 1970s with his roles in Martin Scorsese's "Mean Streets" and "Taxi Driver".

Major Roles

De Niro has played a wide variety of roles throughout his career, but he is best known for his portrayals of tough, working-class characters. Some of his most iconic roles include:
  • Travis Bickle in "Taxi Driver" (1976)
  • Jake LaMotta in "Raging Bull" (1980)
  • Vito Corleone in "The Godfather Part II" (1974)
  • Jimmy Conway in "Goodfellas" (1990)
  • Neil McCauley in "Heat" (1995)
De Niro has won two Academy Awards, a BAFTA Award, and a Golden Globe Award for his acting.

Personal Life

De Niro has been married twice. He has six children, including four children with his first wife, Diahnne Abbott, and two children with his second wife, Grace Hightower.De Niro is a practicing Buddhist and a supporter of the Democratic Party. He is also a co-founder of the Tribeca Film Festival.

Robert De Niro Profile

Robert De Niro is an acclaimed actor known for his intense and transformative performances. His career spans over five decades, and he has starred in a wide range of films, from crime dramas to comedies. De Niro's work has earned him numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards, a BAFTA Award, and a Golden Globe Award.

  • Method Acting: De Niro is renowned for his commitment to method acting, immersing himself in his roles to deliver authentic and nuanced performances.
  • Character Range: De Niro has played a diverse array of characters, from gangsters to boxers to comedians, showcasing his versatility and range as an actor.
  • Collaboration with Scorsese: De Niro's frequent collaborations with director Martin Scorsese have produced some of his most iconic roles, including Travis Bickle in "Taxi Driver" and Jake LaMotta in "Raging Bull."
  • Philanthropy: De Niro is actively involved in philanthropic work, supporting organizations such as the Tribeca Film Festival and the Robert De Niro Sr. Foundation.
  • Cultural Impact: De Niro's films have had a profound impact on popular culture, influencing everything from fashion to music to the way we view masculinity.

These key aspects highlight the depth and breadth of Robert De Niro's career. His method acting, character range, collaborations with Scorsese, philanthropic work, and cultural impact have all contributed to his enduring legacy as one of the greatest actors of our time.

Personal Details and Bio Data

Birth Name Robert Anthony De Niro Jr.
Date of Birth August 17, 1943
Place of Birth Manhattan, New York City, U.S.
Nationality American
Occupation Actor, producer, director
Years Active 1965present
Spouse(s) Diahnne Abbott (m. 19761988), Grace Hightower (m. 1997present)
Children 6

Method Acting

Robert De Niro's method acting approach has been a defining characteristic of his career, contributing significantly to his reputation as one of the greatest actors of our time. Method acting involves immersing oneself in the role, researching the character's background and motivations, and living and breathing the character both on and off set.

  • Deep Character Study: De Niro meticulously researches his characters, reading books, interviewing people who knew them, and spending time in the environments where they lived. For example, to prepare for his role as Jake LaMotta in "Raging Bull," he spent months training as a boxer and gained over 60 pounds.
  • Emotional Immersion: De Niro fully immerses himself in the emotional world of his characters, often staying in character even when the cameras are not rolling. This allows him to deliver performances that are raw, authentic, and deeply moving.
  • Physical Transformation: De Niro is willing to undergo significant physical transformations for his roles. He has gained and lost weight, changed his appearance, and learned new skills to embody his characters as fully as possible.
  • Collaboration with Directors: De Niro works closely with directors to develop his characters and bring their vision to life. He is known for being open to feedback and willing to experiment with different approaches.

De Niro's method acting approach has resulted in some of the most iconic and memorable performances in film history. His commitment to authenticity and emotional depth has earned him critical acclaim and the respect of his peers. Method acting has become synonymous with De Niro's work, and it is a key factor in his enduring legacy as one of the greatest actors of all time.

Character Range

Robert De Niro's exceptional character range is a hallmark of his illustrious career, demonstrating his versatility and transformative abilities as an actor. Throughout his filmography, he has effortlessly embodied a vast spectrum of characters, from menacing gangsters to vulnerable boxers and even comedic personas.

  • Gangsters and Criminals: De Niro has portrayed some of the most iconic gangsters in cinematic history, including Vito Corleone in "The Godfather Part II," Jimmy Conway in "Goodfellas," and Al Capone in "The Untouchables." His ability to convey the menace and brutality of these characters while also revealing their humanity has earned him widespread acclaim.
  • Boxers: De Niro's portrayal of boxers has been equally impressive. In "Raging Bull," he delivered a tour-de-force performance as Jake LaMotta, capturing the boxer's physicality, emotional turmoil, and self-destructive tendencies. He also gave a memorable performance as a washed-up boxer in "The Fighter."
  • Comedians: De Niro has also shown his comedic chops in films such as "Midnight Run" and "Analyze This." His ability to switch between dramatic and comedic roles seamlessly highlights his versatility as an actor.
  • Historical Figures: De Niro has portrayed a range of historical figures, including Travis Bickle in "Taxi Driver," a Vietnam War veteran turned vigilante, and Neil McCauley in "Heat," a professional thief. His ability to bring these complex characters to life has earned him praise for his historical accuracy and emotional depth.

De Niro's character range is a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. His ability to embody such a wide array of characters with authenticity and nuance has cemented his status as one of the greatest actors of all time.

Collaboration with Scorsese

Robert De Niro's collaboration with director Martin Scorsese has been one of the most successful and enduring partnerships in film history. Together, they have created some of the most iconic and critically acclaimed films of all time.

Scorsese's films have allowed De Niro to explore a wide range of characters, from the troubled Travis Bickle in "Taxi Driver" to the self-destructive Jake LaMotta in "Raging Bull." De Niro's performances in these films are characterized by their intensity, realism, and emotional depth.

Scorsese's direction has brought out the best in De Niro's acting. He has given De Niro the freedom to experiment and take risks, and has always been there to support him. The result has been a series of unforgettable performances that have cemented De Niro's status as one of the greatest actors of all time.

The collaboration between De Niro and Scorsese is a masterclass in filmmaking. Their films are not only entertaining, but they also offer insights into the human condition. They are essential viewing for any fan of film.

Philanthropy

Robert De Niro's philanthropic work is an integral part of his public persona and has significantly shaped his profile. His involvement in various charitable organizations and initiatives reflects his commitment to social responsibility and his desire to make a positive impact on society.

One of De Niro's most notable philanthropic endeavors is the Tribeca Film Festival, which he co-founded in 2002. The festival was established to revitalize lower Manhattan after the 9/11 attacks and has since become a major cultural event, showcasing independent films and supporting emerging filmmakers. De Niro's involvement in the festival demonstrates his passion for the arts and his belief in their power to inspire and unite communities.

In addition to the Tribeca Film Festival, De Niro is also actively involved in the Robert De Niro Sr. Foundation, which was established in honor of his late father. The foundation supports various educational and cultural programs, including scholarships for underprivileged students and grants to arts organizations. De Niro's commitment to education and the arts through his foundation highlights his dedication to fostering a more equitable and vibrant society.

De Niro's philanthropic work has earned him widespread recognition and respect. He has been honored for his charitable contributions by organizations such as the American Red Cross and the United Nations. His involvement in these initiatives has not only raised awareness for important social issues but has also inspired others to engage in philanthropic activities.

Cultural Impact

Robert De Niro's films have left an undeniable mark on popular culture, shaping trends, inspiring artists, and influencing societal attitudes. His iconic performances and collaborations with renowned directors have contributed to his status as a cultural icon.

  • Fashion and Style: De Niro's characters have influenced fashion trends worldwide. His portrayal of Travis Bickle in "Taxi Driver" popularized the mohawk hairstyle and army jackets, while his role in "Raging Bull" made the leather jacket and boxing trunks a stylish combination. De Niro's ability to embody distinct characters has made him a fashion icon, with his outfits becoming synonymous with the films he stars in.
  • Music and Soundtracks: De Niro's films have featured memorable soundtracks that have become cultural touchstones. The use of "Gimme Shelter" by The Rolling Stones in "Goodfellas" perfectly captures the film's themes of violence and betrayal. Similarly, the haunting score by Bernard Herrmann in "Taxi Driver" enhances the film's psychological intensity. De Niro's films have played a significant role in shaping the soundscapes of popular culture.
  • Masculinity and Identity: De Niro's characters have challenged traditional notions of masculinity. His portrayal of complex, flawed, and often violent men has sparked discussions about the nature of manhood. Films like "Raging Bull" and "Taxi Driver" have explored the darker aspects of masculinity, while others like "The Deer Hunter" and "Awakenings" have showcased its vulnerability and resilience. De Niro's characters have influenced how audiences perceive and understand masculinity in contemporary society.

Robert De Niro's cultural impact extends beyond his on-screen performances. He has become a symbol of cinematic excellence, inspiring generations of actors and filmmakers. His films have sparked important conversations about society, culture, and the human condition, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to shape popular culture.

FAQs about Robert De Niro

This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about Robert De Niro, offering concise and informative responses to common inquiries.

Question 1: What is Robert De Niro's acting style?


Robert De Niro is known for his intense and immersive acting style, employing method acting techniques to fully inhabit his characters. He meticulously researches their backgrounds, motivations, and physicality, often undergoing significant transformations to embody them authentically.

Question 2: What are some of Robert De Niro's most iconic roles?


De Niro has portrayed a wide range of iconic characters throughout his career, including Travis Bickle in "Taxi Driver," Jake LaMotta in "Raging Bull," Vito Corleone in "The Godfather Part II," and Jimmy Conway in "Goodfellas." These performances have showcased his versatility and ability to bring complex and unforgettable characters to life.

Question 3: What is Robert De Niro's personal life like?


De Niro has been married twice and has six children. He is known for being a private person who values his family and close relationships. He is also an active philanthropist, supporting various organizations and causes.

Question 4: What is Robert De Niro's net worth?


Robert De Niro's net worth is estimated to be around $500 million. He has accumulated his wealth through his successful acting career, as well as various business ventures and investments.

Question 5: What are some of Robert De Niro's upcoming projects?


Robert De Niro has several upcoming projects in development, including "Killers of the Flower Moon" directed by Martin Scorsese and "Joker: Folie Deux" directed by Todd Phillips. He continues to be an active and sought-after actor, with his upcoming work highly anticipated by fans and critics alike.

Summary: Robert De Niro is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of all time. His intense acting style, iconic roles, and philanthropic efforts have cemented his status as a cultural icon. His upcoming projects promise to further enhance his legacy and continue to entertain and inspire audiences worldwide.

Conclusion

Robert De Niro's illustrious career has left an indelible mark on the film industry and popular culture. His intense acting style, versatility, and transformative performances have earned him widespread acclaim and recognition as one of the greatest actors of all time. De Niro's commitment to his craft, his dedication to social responsibility, and his cultural impact have solidified his status as an icon.

As De Niro continues his acting journey, his upcoming projects are highly anticipated. His unwavering passion for the art of acting and his ability to bring complex characters to life promise to captivate audiences for years to come. Robert De Niro's legacy as a cinematic legend is secure, and his contributions to the world of film will continue to inspire and entertain generations.

Robert De Niro Profile Images — The Movie Database (TMDb)
Robert De Niro Profile Images — The Movie Database (TMDb)
Robert De Niro Profile Images — The Movie Database (TMDB)
Robert De Niro Profile Images — The Movie Database (TMDB)
Robert De Niro Turner Classic Movies
Robert De Niro Turner Classic Movies

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