Major Controversies Surrounding Robert De Niro: A Detailed Timeline

Public opinion and media debates around Robert De Niro—discover key moments of controversy.

Robert De Niro is a highly acclaimed American actor, director, and producer, widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential actors of his generation. He has received numerous awards, including two Academy Awards, a Golden Globe Award, and lifetime achievement awards from AFI, the Screen Actors Guild, and the Kennedy Center. De Niro was also awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Honorary Palme d'Or, marking his significant contributions to film.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1983: Criticized by Pauline Kael

In 1983, Pauline Kael criticized Robert De Niro for "disfiguring" himself in films such as Raging Bull.

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February 1998: Questioning by French Police

In February 1998, Robert De Niro was held for questioning by French police in connection with an international prostitution ring. He denied any involvement and later filed a complaint.

1999: Threat to Sue "De Niro's Supper Club"

In 1999, Robert De Niro threatened to sue the owners of "De Niro's Supper Club" in Vancouver under the BC Privacy Act. The restaurant subsequently changed its name to "Section (3).".

2006: Received Italian citizenship

In 2006, Robert De Niro received Italian citizenship, despite opposition by the Sons of Italy.

2006: Lawsuit Over Property Tax Assessment

In 2006, the trust owning Robert De Niro's Gardiner estate sued the town to reduce its property tax assessment, arguing that $6 million was too high. The town won in State Supreme Court.

2014: Withdrawal of Property Tax Lawsuit and Reimbursement of Legal Bills

In 2014, Robert De Niro directed his lawyer to withdraw the lawsuit over his Gardiner estate's property tax assessment and reimburse the town's legal bills of $129,000 due to negative publicity. The trust's accountants had filed the suit without his knowledge.

2014: Promotion of Anti-Vaccination Film

In 2014, Robert De Niro promoted the anti-vaccination film Trace Amounts and stated that he doubted the scientific consensus that there was no link between autism and vaccines.

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2016: Defense and Subsequent Withdrawal of "Vaxxed" Documentary

In 2016, Robert De Niro initially defended the inclusion of the controversial documentary "Vaxxed" at the Tribeca Film Festival, citing personal experience with his autistic son. The film was directed by Andrew Wakefield and echoed his discredited claims about the MMR vaccine. After consultation, the film was withdrawn. Later in the year, De Niro expressed regret for the withdrawal and promoted the 2014 film "Trace Amounts", also doubting the link between autism and vaccines.

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February 2017: Joint Presentation on Vaccine Safety Concerns

In February 2017, Robert De Niro participated in a joint presentation with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to discuss their concerns with vaccine safety. De Niro stated that he is not anti-vaccination but questions their efficacy.

August 2019: Lawsuit Against Former Employee Graham Chase Robinson

In August 2019, Robert De Niro's company, Canal Productions, filed a $6 million lawsuit against former employee Graham Chase Robinson for allegedly misusing company funds and watching hours of Netflix during work hours.

October 2019: Counter-Lawsuit Filed by Graham Chase Robinson

In October 2019, Graham Chase Robinson, a former employee of Robert De Niro's company, filed a lawsuit against De Niro, claiming harassment and gender discrimination.

November 2023: Jury Verdict in Harassment and Gender Discrimination Lawsuit

In November 2023, a jury found Robert De Niro not personally liable for gender discrimination in the lawsuit filed by his former employee, Graham Chase Robinson. However, his production company was ordered to pay her $1.2 million in damages.

2024: Leadership award withdrawn

In 2024, a leadership award from the National Association of Broadcasters that De Niro was due to receive was withdrawn following his criticism of Donald Trump.