Robert De Niro, a legendary figure in the world of film, has captivated audiences with his unparalleled talent and mesmerizing performances for decades. From his early breakthrough in “The Godfather Part II” to his unforgettable collaborations with Martin Scorsese, De Niro has left an indelible mark on cinema. In this listicle, we delve into 20 fascinating facts about this enigmatic actor, shedding light on his remarkable career, personal life, and philanthropic endeavors.
1. Robert De Niro was born on August 17, 1943, in New York City, USA.
2. His full name is Robert Anthony De Niro Jr.
3. De Niro's parents were both artists - his father was a painter and sculptor, and his mother was a poet and painter.
4. He made his film debut at the age of 20 in the 1965 film "Three Rooms in Manhattan."
5. De Niro gained significant recognition for his role as young Vito Corleone in the 1974 film "The Godfather Part II," for which he won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
6. He is renowned for his collaborations with director Martin Scorsese, having worked together on films like "Taxi Driver," "Raging Bull," "Goodfellas," and "The Irishman."
7. De Niro has been nominated for the Academy Award seven times, winning twice for his roles in "The Godfather Part II" and "Raging Bull."
8. He is known for his dedication to method acting, often immersing himself in the characters he portrays and undergoing physical transformations for his roles.
9. De Niro co-founded the Tribeca Film Festival in 2002 to revitalize the downtown Manhattan area after the September 11 attacks.
10. He has a passion for boxing and has trained extensively in the sport. He even started a boxing club called the Tribeca Grill Boxing Club.
11. De Niro has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including raising awareness and funds for cancer research and supporting organizations like the American Cancer Society.
12. He has a successful restaurant business, owning several high-end eateries, including the famous Nobu restaurants.
13. De Niro is fluent in Italian and has acted in Italian-language films, such as "The Good Shepherd" and "The Ages of Love."
14. He has a reputation for being selective with his film roles, often choosing projects that have a strong artistic or social message.
15. De Niro has received numerous lifetime achievement awards for his contributions to the film industry, including the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the Golden Globes.
16. He is known for his intense preparation for roles, often spending months researching and studying the characters he plays.
17. De Niro has a strong interest in politics and has been vocal about his views, often using his platform to speak out on social and political issues.
18. He has played a wide range of characters throughout his career, from gangsters and tough guys to comedic roles in films like "Meet the Parents" and "Silver Linings Playbook."
19. De Niro has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which he received in 2003.
20. Despite being one of the most celebrated actors of his generation, De Niro remains humble and down-to-earth, often crediting his success to hard work and a passion for his craft.
