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, film producer, and restaurateur, 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 nominations for several BAFTA and Emmy Awards. De Niro's contributions to the film industry have been recognized with prestigious honors such as the AFI Life Achievement Award, Kennedy Center Honors, Cecil B. DeMille Award, Presidential Medal of Freedom, Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award, and the Honorary Palme d'Or.

Sections (6)

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

1983: Pauline Kael's Criticism

In 1983, Pauline Kael once said that she did not like how the actor was "disfiguring" himself in films such as Raging Bull.

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February 1998: Questioned by French police in connection with prostitution ring

In February 1998, De Niro was questioned by French police regarding an international prostitution ring. He denied involvement and later filed a complaint against the examining magistrate.

1999: Threatened to sue "De Niro's Supper Club"

In 1999, De Niro threatened to sue the owners of "De Niro's Supper Club" in Vancouver, leading the restaurant to change its name to "Section (3)".

2006: Italian Citizenship

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

2014: Promoted anti-vaccination film Trace Amounts

In 2014, during an appearance on NBC's Today, 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: Defended Vaxxed documentary and Tribeca Film Festival controversy

In 2016, De Niro initially defended the inclusion of the controversial documentary Vaxxed at the 2016 Tribeca Film Festival, which was later withdrawn. He also expressed his personal interest due to his autistic son, Elliot.

February 2017: Joint presentation with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on vaccine safety

In February 2017, De Niro participated in a joint presentation with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to discuss concerns about vaccine safety.

August 2019: Canal Productions filed lawsuit against Graham Chase Robinson

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

October 2019: Graham Chase Robinson filed lawsuit against De Niro

In October 2019, Graham Chase Robinson filed a lawsuit against De Niro, claiming harassment and gender discrimination.

November 2023: Jury verdict in Robinson lawsuit

In November 2023, a jury found De Niro not personally liable for gender discrimination, but his production company was ordered to pay Graham Chase Robinson $1.2 million in damages.

2024: National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Award Withdrawn

In 2024, De Niro was due to receive a leadership award from the National Association of Broadcasters, before the honour was withdrawn following De Niro's criticism of Donald Trump outside the former President's criminal trial in New York.