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22h ago

Robert De Niro Condemns Trump Policies in Cannes Speech, Calls for Global Action

Accepting an honorary Palme d’Or, De Niro criticized cuts to arts funding, proposed film tariffs, and urged international solidarity to defend democracy and cultural expression.

Robert De Niro arrives on stage during the opening ceremony and the screening the film "Partir un jour" (Leave One Day) Out of competition at the 78th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, May 13, 2025. REUTERS/Sarah Meyssonnier
Robert De Niro receives the honorary Palme d’Or from Leonardo DiCaprio during the opening ceremony of the 78th edition of the Cannes Film Festival on May 13, 2025.
Quentin Tarantino, Robert De Niro and Master of Ceremony Laurent Lafitte pose on stage at the end of the opening ceremony, before the screening pose on stage at the end of the opening ceremony, and before the screening the film "Partir un jour" (Leave One Day) Out of competition at the 78th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, May 13, 2025. REUTERS/Sarah Meyssonnier
Robert De Niro receives an Honorary Palme d'Or Award from Leonardo DiCaprio during the opening ceremony and the screening the film "Partir un jour" (Leave One Day) Out of competition at the 78th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, May 13, 2025. REUTERS/Stephane Mahe TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

Overview

  • Robert De Niro received the honorary Palme d’Or at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, presented by Leonardo DiCaprio, marking his decades-long connection to the event.
  • In his acceptance speech, De Niro denounced President Trump’s cuts to arts and education funding, as well as a proposed 100% tariff on foreign films.
  • He described art as a force for truth and diversity, labeling it a threat to authoritarian regimes and a vital tool for defending democracy.
  • De Niro urged global audiences to organize, protest, and vote in defense of liberty and cultural exchange, calling for immediate action.
  • The speech coincided with the 49th anniversary of 'Taxi Driver,' a Cannes-winning film that helped cement De Niro’s legacy in cinema.