De Niro Returns to Cannes with a Message
At 81, Robert De Niro didn’t just receive applause—he delivered a powerful political message, made a rare family appearance, and embraced a festival he calls “home.”
On May 13, 2025, the acclaimed actor, director, and producer accepted the honorary Palme d’Or for lifetime achievement at the opening ceremony of the 78th Festival de Cannes.
A Moment of Recognition
Leonardo DiCaprio presented the award to De Niro, marking 14 years since he served as Jury President in 2011.
While accepting the honor, De Niro shifted focus to U.S. politics, directly addressing President Donald Trump.
“In my country, we are fighting like [expletive] for the democracy we once took for granted,” he began. “That affects all of us here because the arts are democratic.”
Standing Against Autocracy
He emphasized how creativity challenges authoritarianism. “That’s why we are a threat to autocrats and fascists.”
De Niro continued with sharp criticism of the sitting president’s policies. “America’s philistine president has had himself appointed head of one of our premier cultural institutions,” he said, referring to Trump’s role at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Challenging Tariffs and Cuts
He also condemned new tariffs and budget cuts. “He has cut funding and support to the arts, humanities, and education, and now he has announced a 100 percent tariff on films produced outside the U.S.”
After a pause, he urged, “Let that sink in.”
De Niro called the situation unacceptable and warned that it’s not just an American issue. “This is a global problem.”
Robert De Niro accepts the honorary Palme d’Or onstage during the opening ceremony at the 78th annual Cannes Film Festival at the Palais de Festival on May 13, 2025, in France | Source: Getty Images
A Call to Action
Closing his speech, De Niro urged action—not just reflection. “We can’t sit back and watch. We have to act—without violence, but with passion and determination. If you care about liberty, organize, protest, and vote.”
Mixed Reactions Online
His remarks sparked strong reactions across social media.
On TikTok, one person asked, “Who hurt him?” Another praised his courage: “A man with courage.” A third added, “Words are powerful when spoken with conviction.”
On Facebook, opinions ranged widely. Supporters called it a “powerful speech” and “very well spoken.” Critics responded harshly, calling him “insane,” “disrespectful,” and even “a joke.”
Cannes Feels Like Home
Before the ceremony, De Niro reflected on the honor: “I have such close feelings for Festival de Cannes. Especially now, with so much division in the world, Cannes brings us together—storytellers, filmmakers, fans, and friends. It’s like coming home.”
Family by His Side
De Niro walked the red carpet with his girlfriend, 45-year-old Tiffany Chen, and his daughter, Helen Grace.
Helen, born via surrogate in December 2011, is his youngest child with ex-wife Grace Hightower. She joined older brother Elliot and half-siblings Drena, Raphael, and twins Julian and Aaron from De Niro’s previous relationships.
A Birthday Splash
In August 2024, De Niro celebrated his 81st birthday in bold fashion. Daughter Drena shared Instagram photos and a video of her father leaping off a yacht in striped swim trunks.
She captioned the post, “Happy 81st Bday to my Dad and #1 ride or die. Love you with all my ♥️♥️♥️ #BobbyD forever ✨👑✨.”
