The name Robert De Niro has always commanded attention, but in 2025, it resonates louder than ever. At 81, De Niro is not only being celebrated for his legendary film career but is also at the center of global headlines for his outspoken activism and a bold new chapter in television. This month, Robert De Niro accepted the Honorary Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival, delivered a searing speech on democracy and the arts, and prepared for the launch of his first-ever regular TV role in Netflix’s “Zero Day.” The world is watching, and so is Hollywood.
Robert De Niro’s Cannes Spotlight: Honorary Palme d’Or and a Political Stand
The opening night of the 78th Cannes Film Festival belonged to Robert De Niro. As he took the stage to accept the festival’s highest honor, the Honorary Palme d’Or, De Niro was joined by a constellation of stars, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Halle Berry, and Quentin Tarantino. But it was his speech that electrified the room and echoed far beyond the red carpet.
De Niro used the moment to fiercely criticize U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed 100% tariff on foreign films, warning that such policies threaten the very fabric of global artistic exchange. “America’s philistine president has slashed funding for the arts, humanities, and education. Now, he’s introduced a 100% tariff on films made outside the U.S. Let that sink in,” De Niro declared, urging everyone who values freedom and creativity to protest and vote. His words transformed the festival’s opening into a rallying cry for artists and audiences worldwide.
Key Moments from Cannes 2025:
- De Niro received the Honorary Palme d’Or for lifetime achievement.
- He called for resistance against Trump’s film tariff, positioning himself as a defender of artistic freedom.
- The festival’s focus shifted from cinema alone to urgent global issues, with De Niro at the heart of the conversation.
Robert De Niro and Tiffany Chen: A Rare Red Carpet Appearance
While De Niro’s activism dominated headlines, his personal life also drew attention. The actor made a rare public appearance with his partner, Tiffany Chen, at Cannes. The couple, who share a two-year-old daughter, Gia, walked the red carpet for both the opening ceremony and the screening of “Partir Un Jour.” Their presence was a reminder of De Niro’s enduring appeal—not just as a screen icon, but as a family man whose life continues to evolve.
Notable Personal Highlights:
- De Niro and Chen’s relationship began on the set of “The Intern” in 2015.
- Their daughter, Gia Virginia Chen De Niro, is De Niro’s seventh child.
- The couple’s Cannes appearance was their first major public outing together since Gia’s birth.
“Zero Day”: Robert De Niro’s First Regular TV Role
Beyond the festival circuit and political discourse, Robert De Niro is breaking new ground in his career. On February 20, 2025, he will star in Netflix’s “Zero Day,” a high-stakes conspiracy thriller that marks his first regular television role. De Niro plays George Mullen, a former U.S. President tasked with investigating a catastrophic cyberattack that has plunged the nation into chaos.
The series boasts a powerhouse cast including Angela Bassett, Lizzy Caplan, Jesse Plemons, Joan Allen, and Connie Britton. “Zero Day” promises to blend suspense, political intrigue, and De Niro’s trademark intensity, introducing him to a new generation of viewers and reaffirming his relevance in the streaming era.
What to Expect from “Zero Day”:
- Six-episode limited series premiering on Netflix, February 20, 2025.
- De Niro as ex-President George Mullen, leading a commission to uncover the truth behind a national cyber crisis.
- Ensemble cast featuring top-tier talent from film and television.
Robert De Niro: Still Defining the Conversation
Robert De Niro’s 2025 is a testament to his enduring influence—not just as an actor, but as a cultural force. His willingness to speak out on political issues, embrace new creative challenges, and share personal milestones keeps him at the forefront of public consciousness. Whether on the Cannes stage, the Netflix home screen, or the red carpet with his family, De Niro continues to shape the narrative of our times.
Why Robert De Niro Matters in 2025:
- He bridges generations, appealing to cinephiles and new audiences alike.
- His activism highlights the intersection of art, politics, and global dialogue.
- De Niro’s career evolution proves that reinvention is always possible, even for legends.
As the world grapples with questions of democracy, creativity, and the future of entertainment, Robert De Niro stands as both a witness to history and an active participant in shaping it.
Ready to see Robert De Niro in a whole new light? Mark your calendar for “Zero Day” on Netflix and join the conversation about the future of art and freedom.