Robert De Niro is a highly acclaimed American actor and producer, widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation. He is renowned for his collaborations with director Martin Scorsese. De Niro has received numerous prestigious awards, including two Academy Awards, a Golden Globe Award, the Cecil B. DeMille Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award. He was also honored with the Kennedy Center Honors in 2009 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016.
1900: 1900
In 1900, Robert De Niro starred as Alfredo Berlinghieri in Bernardo Bertolucci's historical drama "1900," depicting the political conflicts of early 20th century Italy.
August 17, 1943: Birth of Robert De Niro
Robert De Niro was born on August 17, 1943.
1955: Beginning of the Period Depicted in "Goodfellas"
The narrative of the crime film "Goodfellas", released in 1990, begins in 1955, chronicling the lives of mob associates.
1955: Original Release of "We're No Angels"
The original version of the crime comedy "We're No Angels" was released in 1955.
1956: Publication of "Bang the Drum Slowly" Novel
The novel "Bang the Drum Slowly" by Mark Harris, upon which the 1973 film was based, was originally published in 1956.
1962: Release of the Original "Cape Fear"
The original version of "Cape Fear", which De Niro's 1991 remake is based on, was released in 1962.
1963: Filming of "The Wedding Party"
De Niro's performance in "The Wedding Party" was filmed in 1963, though the movie wasn't released until 1969.
1965: Minor Film Roles in "Encounter" and "Three Rooms in Manhattan"
De Niro had minor film roles in "Encounter" and "Three Rooms in Manhattan," both released in 1965.
1968: Comedic Role in "Greetings"
De Niro had a comedic role in "Greetings," released in 1968.
1968: Major Role in "Greetings" and Collaboration with Brian De Palma
De Niro landed a major role in the satirical film "Greetings," released in 1968. This marked the beginning of his collaborations with director Brian De Palma.
1969: Appearance in "The Wedding Party"
De Niro appeared in De Palma's comedy "The Wedding Party," filmed in 1963 but released in 1969.
1969: Discovery of L-Dopa Benefits in "Awakenings"
In 1969, as depicted in the 1990 film "Awakenings", Dr. Malcolm Sayer (played by Robin Williams) discovers the benefits of L-Dopa for catatonic patients.
1969: Publication of "The Gang That Couldn't Shoot Straight" Novel
The novel "The Gang That Couldn't Shoot Straight," which inspired the 1971 film, was published in 1969.
1970: Roles in "Bloody Mama" and "Hi, Mom!"
De Niro starred in "Bloody Mama" and "Hi, Mom!" in 1970, showcasing his versatility in both crime drama and comedy.
1970: Comedic Role in "Hi, Mom!"
De Niro appeared in the comedy "Hi, Mom!," released in 1970.
1971: Appearances in "Jennifer on My Mind", "Born to Win", and "The Gang That Couldn't Shoot Straight"
De Niro had roles in three films released in 1971: "Jennifer on My Mind", "Born to Win", and "The Gang That Couldn't Shoot Straight."
1972: Theater Performances at The American Place Theatre
De Niro performed in two productions at The American Place Theatre, directed by Charles Maryan, in 1972.
1972: The Godfather
In 1972, Robert De Niro initially auditioned for "The Godfather" but chose to work on "The Gang That Couldn't Shoot Straight" instead.
1973: Lead Role in "Bang the Drum Slowly"
De Niro played the lead role of Bruce Pearson, a baseball player battling Hodgkin disease, in the critically acclaimed film "Bang the Drum Slowly" released in 1973.
1973: Release of "Bang the Drum Slowly"
De Niro starred in "Bang the Drum Slowly," released in 1973.
1973: Collaboration with Scorsese in "Mean Streets" and Debut at Cannes
De Niro's second collaboration with Martin Scorsese took place in 1973 with the crime film "Mean Streets." The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and later at the New York Film Festival, receiving a positive response from critics.
1973: Publication of "Awakenings" by Oliver Sacks
Oliver Sacks published his book "Awakenings" in 1973, detailing his experiences with catatonic patients and the effects of L-Dopa.
1973: Release of "Bang the Drum Slowly" and "Mean Streets"
Robert De Niro starred in two critically acclaimed films, "Bang the Drum Slowly" and "Mean Streets," both released in 1973.
1973: Collaboration with Martin Scorsese in "Mean Streets"
Robert De Niro's first collaboration with director Martin Scorsese took place in 1973 with the film "Mean Streets."
1974: Release of "The Godfather Part II"
Robert De Niro's performance in "The Godfather Part II", released in 1974, is considered one of his most acclaimed roles.
1974: Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor
De Niro won his first Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Vito Corleone in "The Godfather Part II" in 1974.
1974: The Godfather Part II
In 1974, Robert De Niro starred as a young Vito Corleone in "The Godfather Part II," earning him his first Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
1976: Release of "1900"
De Niro acted in the film "1900," released in 1976.
1976: Oscar Nomination for "Taxi Driver"
De Niro received an Oscar nomination for his role in the critically acclaimed film "Taxi Driver" in 1976.
1976: Taxi Driver
In 1976, De Niro delivered a critically acclaimed performance as Travis Bickle in "Taxi Driver," earning him a Best Actor nomination at the Academy Awards.
1976: 1900 and The Last Tycoon
In 1976, De Niro starred in Bernardo Bertolucci's historical drama "1900" and Elia Kazan's "The Last Tycoon," showcasing his range and dedication to his craft.
1976: Marriage to Diahnne Abbott
In 1976, Robert De Niro married actress Diahnne Abbott. They had a son, Raphael, and De Niro also adopted Abbott's daughter, Drena, from a previous relationship. This marked the beginning of his family life.
1976: Release of "Taxi Driver"
Robert De Niro's performance as Travis Bickle in "Taxi Driver", released in 1976, is considered iconic in film history.
1977: New York, New York
De Niro took on the challenging role of saxophonist Jimmy Doyle in the 1977 musical "New York, New York," directed by Martin Scorsese, demonstrating his versatility in a new genre.
1977: Newsweek Praises De Niro
In 1977, Newsweek remarked that Robert De Niro gives the shock of becoming, of a metamorphosis that can be thrilling, moving, or frightening. This highlighted his commitment and ability to transform into his roles.
1978: Oscar Nomination for "The Deer Hunter"
In 1978, Robert De Niro was nominated for an Academy Award for his performance in "The Deer Hunter."
1978: Release of "The Deer Hunter"
Robert De Niro starred in the critically acclaimed war drama "The Deer Hunter", released in 1978.
1980: Raging Bull
In 1980, De Niro delivered an unforgettable performance as boxer Jake LaMotta in "Raging Bull," winning his second Academy Award for Best Actor.
1980: Academy Award for Best Actor
Robert De Niro won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his powerful performance as Jake LaMotta in "Raging Bull" in 1980.
1980: Release of "Raging Bull"
Robert De Niro's portrayal of boxer Jake LaMotta in "Raging Bull", released in 1980, earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.
1980: End of the Period Depicted in "Goodfellas"
The narrative of "Goodfellas" concludes in 1980, providing a glimpse into the evolution of organized crime during this era.
1981: Release of "True Confessions"
In 1981, Robert De Niro starred in the crime drama "True Confessions", adapted from John Gregory Dunne's novel. He played a priest who clashes with his detective brother, portrayed by Robert Duvall, amidst a murder investigation.
1982: Release of "The King of Comedy"
De Niro starred in "The King of Comedy," which was released in 1982.
1982: Release of "The King of Comedy"
Robert De Niro took on the challenging role of Rupert Pupkin, a struggling stand-up comedian, in Martin Scorsese's "The King of Comedy" in 1982. Despite receiving critical acclaim for his performance, the film was a box office disappointment.
1983: Release of "The King of Comedy"
Robert De Niro starred in "The King of Comedy", a dark comedy directed by Martin Scorsese, released in 1983.
1983: Pauline Kael Criticizes De Niro
In 1983, film critic Pauline Kael expressed her discontent with Robert De Niro's tendency to 'disfigure' himself for roles, such as in 'Raging Bull.' De Niro responded by explaining his desire to fully submerge into a character without real-life consequences.
1984: Bananarama's Fan Song Hits Charts
In 1984, the English girl group Bananarama's fan song 'Robert De Niro's Waiting...' reached third place on the UK Singles Chart, remaining on the charts for 12 weeks. The song's success highlighted De Niro's influence and popularity even in the music industry.
1984: Release of "Once Upon a Time in America"
Robert De Niro starred in the epic crime drama "Once Upon a Time in America", released in 1984.
1984: Release of "Falling in Love"
De Niro starred opposite Meryl Streep in the romantic comedy "Falling in Love" in 1984, marking a departure from his previous crime dramas.
1984: Release of "Once Upon a Time in America"
In 1984, De Niro starred in the film "Once Upon a Time in America."
1984: Release of "Once Upon a Time in America"
In 1984, De Niro starred as David "Noodles" Aaronson in Sergio Leone's epic crime drama "Once Upon a Time in America". While the theatrical cut was shortened for U.S. audiences, the full version received a standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival.
1985: Release of "Brazil"
De Niro appeared in the film "Brazil," released in 1985.
1985: Publication of "Wiseguy" by Nicholas Pileggi
Nicholas Pileggi's non-fiction book "Wiseguy", the source material for "Goodfellas", was published in 1985.
1985: Release of "Brazil"
Robert De Niro had a supporting role in the dystopian science fiction film "Brazil", released in 1985.
1986: Release of "The Mission"
De Niro starred in "The Mission," released in 1986.
1986: Release of "The Mission"
Robert De Niro starred in the historical drama "The Mission", released in 1986.
July 1987: De Niro Presides over Moscow International Film Festival
In July 1987, De Niro served as president of the jury at the 15th Moscow International Film Festival, showcasing his influence in the film industry.
1987: Release of "The Untouchables"
De Niro appeared in "The Untouchables," which was released in 1987.
1988: Release of "Midnight Run"
De Niro starred alongside Charles Grodin in the buddy cop film "Midnight Run" in 1988, which achieved commercial success and garnered positive reviews.
1988: Comedic Role in "Midnight Run"
In 1988, De Niro starred in the buddy comedy "Midnight Run."
1988: Divorce from Diahnne Abbott
In 1988, Robert De Niro and Diahnne Abbott divorced, ending their 12-year marriage. During their marriage, they had two children, Raphael and Drena.
1988: Scorsese's "The Last Temptation of Christ" is Released
Martin Scorsese's controversial film "The Last Temptation of Christ" was released in 1988. Although offered the role of Jesus, De Niro declined, and Willem Dafoe was cast instead.
1988: Release of "Midnight Run"
Robert De Niro starred in the action comedy "Midnight Run", released in 1988.
1989: Co-founds TriBeCa Productions
In 1989, Robert De Niro co-founded the film production company TriBeCa Productions with partner Jane Rosenthal. The company also organizes the Tribeca Film Festival, contributing significantly to the film industry.
1989: Invests in Tribeca Neighborhood
Since 1989, Robert De Niro has been a long-term resident of New York City, investing significantly in Manhattan's Tribeca neighborhood. His investments include properties on the east and west sides of Manhattan and a 78-acre estate in Gardiner, New York, serving as his primary residence.
1989: Founding of TriBeCa Productions
In 1989, Robert De Niro and Jane Rosenthal co-founded the film and television production company TriBeCa Productions.
1989: Release of "Jacknife"
De Niro starred in "Jacknife," released in 1989.
1989: Release of "Jacknife" and "We're No Angels"
De Niro appeared in two films in 1989: "Jacknife", a drama exploring the lives of Vietnam veterans, and "We're No Angels", a crime comedy and remake of the 1955 film.
1990: Release of "Goodfellas" and "Awakenings"
1990 marked the release of two significant De Niro films: "Goodfellas", a critically acclaimed crime drama directed by Martin Scorsese, and "Awakenings", a drama based on Oliver Sacks' book, co-starring Robin Williams.
1990: Oscar Nomination for "Awakenings"
De Niro's performance in "Awakenings" earned him an Oscar nomination in 1990.
1990: Release of "Goodfellas"
In 1990, De Niro appeared in the critically acclaimed film "Goodfellas."
1990: Opens Tribeca Grill
In 1990, Robert De Niro co-opened Tribeca Grill, a New American restaurant located in Tribeca, Manhattan, with Broadway producer Stewart F. Lane. The restaurant became a notable establishment in the area.
1990: Release of "Goodfellas"
Robert De Niro starred in the critically acclaimed crime drama "Goodfellas", directed by Martin Scorsese, released in 1990.
1991: Release of "Guilty by Suspicion", "Backdraft", and "Cape Fear"
De Niro appeared in three films in 1991: "Guilty by Suspicion", a drama set during the McCarthy era, "Backdraft", a mystery drama about firefighters, and "Cape Fear", a remake of the 1962 thriller, directed by Martin Scorsese.
1991: Oscar Nomination for "Cape Fear"
Robert De Niro received an Oscar nomination for his role in the thriller "Cape Fear" in 1991.
1992: De Niro Stars in "Mistress" and "Night and the City", Produces "Thunderheart"
In 1992, Robert De Niro showcased his versatility by starring in two distinct films. He took on the role of Evan Wright, a ruthless businessman, in the comedy-drama "Mistress", earning praise for his performance. Additionally, he appeared as New York lawyer Harry Fabian in "Night and the City", a crime drama remake. Beyond acting, De Niro also took on the role of producer for the mystery thriller "Thunderheart".
1993: De Niro Stars in "Mad Dog and Glory" and "This Boy's Life"
In 1993, Robert De Niro starred in two films, "Mad Dog and Glory" and "This Boy's Life". In "Mad Dog and Glory", he played Wayne Dobie, a crime scene photographer, and received acclaim for his on-screen chemistry with co-star Bill Murray. In "This Boy's Life", he portrayed stepfather Dwight Hansen, sharing the screen with Ellen Barkin and Leonardo DiCaprio, in this coming-of-age story.
1993: Release of "This Boy's Life"
De Niro acted in "This Boy's Life," released in 1993.
1993: De Niro Directs and Stars in "A Bronx Tale" and "Frankenstein"
1993 was a pivotal year for Robert De Niro as he took on the roles of director and actor. He directed and starred in "A Bronx Tale", a coming-of-age story exploring themes of organized crime and racism, based on Chazz Palminteri's play and childhood. While receiving positive reviews for his direction, his portrayal of the creature in "Frankenstein", despite the film's commercial success, garnered mixed reception.
1994: Release of "Mary Shelley's Frankenstein"
De Niro appeared in "Mary Shelley's Frankenstein," released in 1994.
1995: Birth of Twin Sons
In 1995, Robert De Niro and his partner Toukie Smith had twin sons, Julian and Aaron, conceived through in vitro fertilization and delivered by a surrogate mother. This was a significant event in De Niro's personal life.
1995: Collaboration with Scorsese in "Casino"
In 1995, Robert De Niro collaborated with director Martin Scorsese on the film "Casino." This marked a significant point in their long-standing professional relationship.
1995: De Niro Returns to Crime Genre with "Casino" and Stars in "Heat"
In 1995, Robert De Niro made a significant return to the crime genre with "Casino", his eighth collaboration with Martin Scorsese. He portrayed Sam "Ace" Rothstein, a mob-connected casino operator, alongside Sharon Stone and Joe Pesci. The film explored themes of greed, betrayal, and the dark underbelly of Las Vegas. He also starred in the critically acclaimed crime thriller "Heat", playing a professional bank robber, alongside Al Pacino and Val Kilmer.
1995: De Niro in Minor Roles and "Panther"
In 1995, Robert De Niro took on minor roles in the French comedy "One Hundred and One Nights" and the drama "Panther".
1996: De Niro Stars in "The Fan", "Sleepers", and "Marvin's Room", Produces "Faithful"
In 1996, Robert De Niro delivered powerful performances in "The Fan" as Gil Renard, a baseball fanatic grappling with mental illness, and in "Sleepers" as priest Bobby Carillo, a mentor to four boys facing abuse and seeking revenge. He also appeared in "Marvin's Room" as Dr. Wallace Carter, treating a woman with leukemia, and further expanded his role as a producer with the crime-comedy "Faithful".
1996: De Niro Produces Video Game "9: The Last Resort"
In 1996, Robert De Niro expanded his creative endeavors into the world of video games, producing "9: The Last Resort", a surreal point-and-click puzzle game set in a hotel populated by eccentric characters. While the game didn't achieve significant commercial success, it marked a unique venture in De Niro's career.
1996: End of Relationship with Toukie Smith
In 1996, Robert De Niro's relationship with model Toukie Smith ended after eight years together. They had twin sons, Julian and Aaron, during their relationship.
1997: Marriage to Grace Hightower
Robert De Niro married actress Grace Hightower in 1997.
1997: Collaboration with Sylvester Stallone in "Cop Land"
In 1997, Robert De Niro worked alongside Sylvester Stallone in the film "Cop Land." This collaboration would later lead to their reunion in the 2013 film "Grudge Match."
1997: Release of "Jackie Brown"
De Niro appeared in Quentin Tarantino's film "Jackie Brown" in 1997.
1997: De Niro Stars in "Cop Land" and "Wag the Dog"
In 1997, Robert De Niro took on diverse roles in "Cop Land" and "Wag the Dog". He portrayed Internal Affairs investigator Lt. Moe Tilden in "Cop Land", exploring police corruption in a New Jersey town. He also co-starred in and co-produced "Wag the Dog", a political satire, playing a biased publicist alongside Dustin Hoffman.
1997: "Mean Streets" Selected for Preservation by the National Film Registry
"Mean Streets" was recognized for its cultural, historical, or aesthetic significance and selected for preservation in the U.S. National Film Registry by the Library of Congress in 1997.
January 1998: "Wag the Dog" Gains Unforeseen Relevance
In January 1998, "Wag the Dog", a political satire co-starring and co-produced by Robert De Niro, gained unexpected relevance due to the emergence of the Clinton-Lewinsky scandal. This unforeseen real-life parallel propelled the film into the spotlight, further amplifying its critical acclaim and contributing to its success.
February 1998: Detainment by French Police
In February 1998, Robert De Niro was detained and questioned by French authorities in connection with an international prostitution ring. He denied any involvement and filed a complaint against the examining magistrate for breach of confidentiality.
1998: Release of "Ronin"
In 1998, De Niro starred in the action thriller "Ronin."
1998: Birth of Son Elliot
Robert De Niro and Grace Hightower's son, Elliot, was born in 1998.
1998: De Niro Stars in "Great Expectations" and "Ronin"
Robert De Niro started 1998 with a role in "Great Expectations", a modern take on Charles Dickens' classic novel. He also starred in "Ronin" as Sam, a former CIA operative, showcasing his ability to portray an action hero.
1998: Lobbies Against Clinton Impeachment
In 1998, Robert De Niro lobbied the U.S. Congress against the impeachment of President Bill Clinton. His involvement in political advocacy showcased his willingness to participate in significant national issues.
1999: Separation from Grace Hightower
Robert De Niro and Grace Hightower separated in 1999, although their divorce wasn't finalized.
1999: Release of the novel "Stardust"
The novel "Stardust," which De Niro starred in an adaption of in 2007, was released in 1999.
1999: De Niro Explores Comedy and Drama in "Analyze This" and "Flawless"
In 1999, Robert De Niro navigated both comedic and dramatic roles. He portrayed an insecure mob boss in the hit comedy "Analyze This", earning a Golden Globe nomination for his performance. He also took on the challenging role of a homophobic police officer in "Flawless", showcasing his range and willingness to tackle complex characters.
1999: Comedic Role in "Analyze This"
De Niro starred in the comedy "Analyze This," released in 1999.
1999: Release of "Analyze This"
"Analyze This," the movie for which De Niro filmed a sequel for in 2002, was released in 1999.
1999: Threatened Lawsuit against "De Niro's Supper Club"
Robert De Niro threatened to sue "De Niro's Supper Club" in Vancouver for using his name without permission. The restaurant later changed its name to "Section (3)" to avoid legal action.
2000: Comedic Roles in "Meet the Parents" Films
Beginning in 2000, De Niro appeared in a series of comedic films titled "Meet the Parents."
2000: De Niro in "The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle", "Men of Honor", and "Meet the Parents"
In 2000, Robert De Niro starred in three distinct films. He lent his voice to the animated "The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle," playing the villainous Fearless Leader. He also portrayed Master Chief "Billy" Sunday in the biographical drama "Men of Honor," based on Carl Brashear's life. Additionally, he took on the role of Jack Byrnes in the comedy "Meet the Parents," displaying his comedic talent opposite Ben Stiller.
2000: Release of "Meet the Parents"
Robert De Niro starred in the comedy "Meet the Parents", released in 2000, which became a major commercial success.
2001: De Niro in "15 Minutes" and "The Score"
In 2001, De Niro starred in two crime thrillers: "15 Minutes" and "The Score." "15 Minutes" saw him play a homicide detective working alongside a fire marshal to capture Eastern European murderers, while in "The Score," he portrayed a seasoned thief tempted into one final heist.
2002: Comedic Role in "Analyze That"
De Niro reprised his role in the sequel "Analyze That," released in 2002.
2002: Founding of the Tribeca Film Festival
De Niro, along with Jane Rosenthal, established the Tribeca Film Festival in 2002.
2002: De Niro in "City by the Sea", "Analyze That", and "9/11"
In 2002, Robert De Niro continued to diversify his roles. He collaborated again with director Michael Caton-Jones in "City by the Sea," playing a police detective. He reprised his comedic role in the sequel "Analyze That," demonstrating his commitment to filming in New York City after the 9/11 attacks. He also appeared in the documentary "9/11," reflecting on the tragic events from the perspective of the New York City fire department.
October 2003: Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer
In October 2003, Robert De Niro was diagnosed with prostate cancer. This marked the beginning of a challenging period in his life as he prepared for treatment.
December 2003: Undergoes Prostate Cancer Surgery
In December 2003, Robert De Niro underwent surgery at the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center following his prostate cancer diagnosis. The successful surgery was a significant event in his health journey.
2004: Publication of the Book "I Heard You Paint Houses"
The book "I Heard You Paint Houses" by Charles Brandt was published in 2004. This book would later serve as the basis for the 2019 film "The Irishman," in which Robert De Niro starred.
2004: Renewal of Vows with Grace Hightower
Robert De Niro and Grace Hightower renewed their vows in 2004 after a period of separation.
2004: De Niro in "Godsend", "Shark Tale", "Meet the Fockers", and "The Bridge of San Luis Rey"
In 2004, De Niro took on a diverse range of roles, from a doctor in the fantasy drama "Godsend" to voicing a character in the animated "Shark Tale." He revisited his comedic role as Jack Byrnes in "Meet the Fockers" and appeared in the film adaptation of Thornton Wilder's novel, "The Bridge of San Luis Rey."
2005: Time Magazine's 100 Best Films
In 2005, "Taxi Driver" was recognized as one of Time magazine's 100 best films of all time.
2005: De Niro in "Hide and Seek"
In 2005, De Niro starred alongside Dakota Fanning in the horror film "Hide and Seek," portraying Dr. David Callaway, a man struggling with the aftermath of his wife's suicide.
2006: Direction and Acting in "The Good Shepherd"
De Niro directed and acted in "The Good Shepherd," released in 2006.
2006: Donates Film Collection to Harry Ransom Center
In 2006, Robert De Niro donated his extensive collection of film-related materials, including scripts, wardrobe pieces, and props, to the Harry Ransom Center at the University of Texas at Austin. This collection took over two years to process and catalog.
2006: Receives Italian Citizenship
In 2006, Robert De Niro received Italian citizenship despite opposition from the Sons of Italy, who believed his portrayals of criminals damaged the public image of Italians. This event highlighted a controversy surrounding his career and heritage.
2006: De Niro directs "The Good Shepherd" and voices a character in "Arthur and the Invisibles"
In 2006, Robert De Niro took on the role of director for the second time with the spy thriller "The Good Shepherd." This film reunited him with his frequent collaborator Joe Pesci and explored the early days of the CIA, a subject that fascinated De Niro. Additionally, he lent his voice to Emperor Sifrat XVI in the animated film "Arthur and the Invisibles."
2006: Property Tax Dispute Begins
The trust managing Robert De Niro's Gardiner estate initiated a lawsuit in 2006 to lower the property tax assessment. They argued the $6 million valuation was too high. The town, using comparisons with estates in Dutchess and Litchfield counties, won the initial case.
2007: "Goodfellas" Ranked on AFI's 100 Years...100 Movies List
In 2007, the American Film Institute recognized "Goodfellas" as the 92nd-greatest American film of all time in their updated list, solidifying its legacy.
2007: AFI's 100 Years...100 Movies
In 2007, "The Deer Hunter" was ranked 53rd on the American Film Institute's list of the 100 greatest American films.
2007: De Niro in "Stardust"
In 2007, Robert De Niro starred in Matthew Vaughn's fantasy adventure "Stardust," based on Neil Gaiman's 1999 novel. He played the memorable character Captain Shakespeare.
2008: De Niro in "Righteous Kill" and "What Just Happened"
In 2008, De Niro shared the screen with Al Pacino in "Righteous Kill," playing New York City detectives investigating serial killings. He also appeared in the satirical comedy "What Just Happened," offering a glimpse into the world of Hollywood production.
2009: De Niro in "Everybody's Fine"
In 2009, De Niro took on the role of Frank Goode in "Everybody's Fine," a remake of a Giuseppe Tornatore film.
2009: Kennedy Center Honors
In 2009, Robert De Niro received the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors for his contributions to the arts.
2009: Kennedy Center Honorees
In 2009, Robert De Niro was announced as one of the Kennedy Center Honorees. He was commended as one of America's greatest cinematic actors with a legendary commitment to his characters and for co-founding one of the world's major film festivals. Martin Scorsese and Meryl Streep honored him at the event.
2009: Film Collection Opens to Public
In 2009, the collection of film-related materials donated by Robert De Niro to the Harry Ransom Center at the University of Texas at Austin opened to the public, showcasing his contributions to the film industry.
2010: Continuation of "Meet the Parents" Films
De Niro continued to appear in "Meet the Parents" films through 2010.
2010: Notable Roles in Film
In 2010, Robert De Niro took on various roles in films like "Machete," "Stone," and "Little Fockers." While "Little Fockers" achieved commercial success, "Stone" received mixed reviews, with some critics praising De Niro's performance while others found it repetitive.
December 2011: Birth of Daughter Helen via Surrogate
Robert De Niro and Grace Hightower welcomed their daughter, Helen, via surrogate in December 2011.
2011: Diverse Film Appearances and Cannes Film Festival Presidency
In 2011, Robert De Niro starred in films across different genres, including "Manuale d'amore 3," "Killer Elite," "Limitless," and "New Year's Eve." Notably, he served as the president of the jury for the Cannes Film Festival for the second time.
2011: Attendance at Cannes Film Festival
Robert De Niro traveled to France for the 2011 Cannes Film Festival, despite previously stating he wouldn't return to the country after his detainment in 1998.
2012: Release of "Silver Linings Playbook"
Robert De Niro had a supporting role in the critically acclaimed romantic comedy-drama "Silver Linings Playbook", released in 2012.
2012: Acclaim for "Silver Linings Playbook" and Television Production
Robert De Niro's performance as a father in "Silver Linings Playbook" (2012) garnered critical acclaim, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. The film itself was a commercial and critical success. He also ventured into television production as an executive producer for "NYC 22."
2012: Oscar Nomination for "Silver Linings Playbook"
In 2012, De Niro was nominated for an Academy Award for his supporting role in "Silver Linings Playbook."
2012: Exploring Fatherhood Roles and Thriller Ventures
In 2012, Robert De Niro took on the role of an estranged father in "Being Flynn," receiving praise for his nuanced performance. He also explored the thriller genre with roles in "Red Lights" and "Freelancers."
2012: Joins Anti-Fracking Campaign
In 2012, Robert De Niro joined the anti-fracking campaign Artists Against Fracking, demonstrating his advocacy for environmental issues and willingness to use his platform for social causes.
2013: Mixed Reception for Films and Reunion with Stallone
2013 saw Robert De Niro starring in several films with varying receptions, including "The Big Wedding," "Killing Season," "The Family," "Last Vegas," "Grudge Match," and "The Bag Man." "Grudge Match" marked his reunion with Sylvester Stallone.
2014: Honoring his Father's Legacy with "Remembering the Artist Robert De Niro Sr."
In 2014, Robert De Niro paid tribute to his father, Robert De Niro Sr., with the HBO documentary "Remembering the Artist Robert De Niro Sr." This heartfelt project showcased his father's artistic journey.
2014: Property Tax Dispute Appeal and Resolution
In 2014, the trust representing Robert De Niro's estate appealed the property tax assessment. Due to the financial burden of the case, the town considered abandoning the defense, which angered residents. De Niro, unaware of the lawsuit, was upset by the negative publicity. He withdrew the suit and reimbursed the town's legal expenses.
2014: Move to 15 Central Park West
Robert De Niro and Grace Hightower moved into a luxurious five-bedroom apartment at 15 Central Park West in 2014.
2015: Comedic Role in "The Intern"
In 2015, De Niro starred in the comedy "The Intern."
2015: Partners with James Packer for Nobu
In 2015, Robert De Niro partnered with James Packer after the billionaire acquired a 20 percent stake in Nobu for $100 million. This partnership further expanded the Nobu brand globally.
2015: Exploring Different Genres: Heist, Biographical Drama, and Short Films
In 2015, Robert De Niro took on roles in the heist film "Heist," the biographical drama "Joy," and two short films, "The Audition" and "Ellis." These projects demonstrated his versatility across genres.
2015: Comedic Turn in "The Intern" and Critics Choice Nomination
Robert De Niro showcased his comedic talents in "The Intern" (2015) alongside Anne Hathaway, receiving praise for his refreshing performance. He earned a Critics Choice Movie Award nomination for Best Actor in a Comedy for this role.
2016: Presidential Medal of Freedom
Robert De Niro was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama in 2016, recognizing his significant contributions to American culture.
2016: Controversy Over 'Vaxxed' Documentary
In 2016, Robert De Niro initially defended the inclusion of the controversial documentary 'Vaxxed' at the Tribeca Film Festival due to his personal experience with his autistic son, Elliot. However, the film was withdrawn after consultation with the festival organizers and the scientific community.
2016: Controversial Comedy, Biographical Sports Drama, and AFI Fest Premiere
2016 saw Robert De Niro starring in the controversial comedy "Dirty Grandpa," which faced criticism for its content, and the biographical sports drama "Hands of Stone." He also appeared in "The Comedian," which premiered at the prestigious AFI Fest.
2016: Presidential Medal of Freedom
In 2016, Robert De Niro received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama. Obama praised the honorees for their powerful personal impact on him, and White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest emphasized their deserving nature.
February 2017: Presentation with Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
In February 2017, Robert De Niro participated in a joint presentation with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to discuss concerns about vaccine safety. De Niro clarified that he is not anti-vaccination but has questions about their efficacy.
2017: Portrayal of Bernie Madoff in "The Wizard of Lies" and Emmy Nomination
De Niro portrayed Bernie Madoff in the HBO film "The Wizard of Lies" in 2017 and received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for his performance.
2017: Critical Acclaim for "The Wizard of Lies" and Emmy Nomination
Robert De Niro's performance as Bernie Madoff in "The Wizard of Lies" (2017) received widespread critical acclaim, earning him a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Television Movie.
October 2018: Targeted by Explosive Device
In October 2018, Robert De Niro was targeted by an explosive device found at the Tribeca Grill, which also houses his production company in Manhattan. The FBI reported that similar devices were sent to high-profile politicians, including Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton.
2018: Filing for Divorce from Grace Hightower
Robert De Niro and Grace Hightower filed for divorce in 2018 after 20 years of marriage.
August 2019: Lawsuit Against Former Employee Graham Chase Robinson
Robert De Niro's company, Canal Productions, filed a $6 million lawsuit against a former employee, Graham Chase Robinson, in August 2019 for breach of fiduciary duty and misuse of company funds.
October 2019: Countersuit by Graham Chase Robinson
Graham Chase Robinson filed a countersuit against Robert De Niro in October 2019 alleging harassment and gender discrimination.
2019: Reunion with Scorsese and Critical Acclaim for "The Irishman"
In 2019, Robert De Niro reunited with Martin Scorsese for "The Irishman," a film based on the 2004 book "I Heard You Paint Houses." The film received critical acclaim, with praise for De Niro's performance and the chemistry among the star-studded cast.
2019: Emmy Recognition for "Saturday Night Live" and "When They See Us"
Robert De Niro's portrayal of Robert Mueller on "Saturday Night Live" in 2019 earned him an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series. His role as a producer on Ava DuVernay's "When They See Us" also garnered him another Emmy nomination.
2019: Release of "Joker" and "The Irishman"
De Niro appeared in two highly acclaimed films released in 2019: "Joker" and "The Irishman."
2019: Release of "The Irishman"
Robert De Niro reunited with Martin Scorsese for the epic crime drama "The Irishman", released in 2019.
May 2020: Apple TV+ Co-finances 'Killers of the Flower Moon'
In May 2020, it was announced that Apple TV+ would co-finance and co-distribute the film 'Killers of the Flower Moon' with Paramount, directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Robert De Niro. The film's budget was reported to be $200 million. This collaboration was vital for the film's production and distribution.
September 2020: Appearance in Nancy Meyers' Comedy Short "Father of the Bride Part 3(ish)"
Robert De Niro joined a star-studded cast, including Diane Keaton, Steve Martin, and others, for Nancy Meyers' comedy short film "Father of the Bride Part 3(ish)" in September 2020.
2020: "Godsend" is De Niro's poorest-performing film
As of 2020, the film "Godsend", which was released in 2004, is Robert De Niro's poorest-performing work according to Rotten Tomatoes.
January 2021: Signing on for Historical Comedy "Amsterdam"
In January 2021, Robert De Niro joined the cast of the historical comedy "Amsterdam," directed by David O. Russell.
April 19, 2021: Divorce Proceedings and Financial Disputes
On April 19, 2021, a virtual divorce hearing took place in Manhattan concerning Robert De Niro and Grace Hightower's divorce. De Niro's lawyer argued that he was working at an unsustainable pace to support Hightower and pay his back taxes, while Hightower's lawyer claimed De Niro had been unfairly reducing agreed-upon payments.
August 2022: Joining the Mob Drama "Alto Knights"
Robert De Niro signed on to star in Barry Levinson's mob drama "Alto Knights" in August 2022.
October 2022: Release of "Amsterdam"
The historical comedy "Amsterdam", featuring an ensemble cast including Robert De Niro, was released in October 2022.
December 2, 2022: Release of "Savage Salvation"
Robert De Niro appeared as Sheriff Church in "Savage Salvation", which was released on December 2, 2022.
2022: Films Inducted into U.S. National Film Registry
By 2022, six of Robert De Niro's films had been inducted into the U.S. National Film Registry. His work continues to influence American cinema profoundly, marking a significant milestone in his career.
March 1, 2023: Announcement of 'Zero Day' Series
On March 1, 2023, it was announced that Robert De Niro would produce and star in 'Zero Day,' a six-episode limited series for Netflix. The series, a conspiracy thriller, was created by Eric Newman and Noah Oppenheim, who will also executive produce along with Jonathan Glickman.
April 2023: Birth of Daughter Gia with Tiffany Chen
Robert De Niro, at the age of 79, became one of the oldest fathers on record when he welcomed his seventh child, a daughter named Gia, with his girlfriend Tiffany Chen in April 2023.
July 2023: Death of Grandson Leandro De Niro Rodriguez
In July 2023, Robert De Niro's grandson, Leandro De Niro Rodriguez, whom he adopted through his daughter Drena, passed away at the age of 19. The cause of death was a combination of drug intoxication from fentanyl and cocaine.
November 2023: Resolution of Lawsuit and Countersuit
In November 2023, a jury found Robert De Niro not personally liable for gender discrimination, but his production company was ordered to pay Graham Chase Robinson $1.2 million in damages.
2023: Induction of De Niro's Films into the National Film Registry
As of 2023, six of De Niro's films have been recognized for their cultural, historical, or aesthetic significance and inducted into the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress.
2023: Oscar Nomination for "Killers of the Flower Moon"
De Niro's latest Oscar nomination came in 2023 for his role in "Killers of the Flower Moon."
2023: De Niro Stars in 'Killers of the Flower Moon'
In 2023, Robert De Niro played William King Hale in 'Killers of the Flower Moon,' directed by Martin Scorsese. He starred alongside Leonardo DiCaprio and Lily Gladstone. His role earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor nomination. Niles Schulz praised his performance as one of De Niro’s best, evoking a figure of beguiling charm with a good humor that cloaks bottomless indifference.
2023: Release of "Killers of the Flower Moon"
Robert De Niro starred in the Western crime drama "Killers of the Flower Moon", directed by Martin Scorsese, released in 2023.