How Robert De Niro Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 21, 2026

How the contributions of Robert De Niro continue to shape the world today.

Robert De Niro is a highly acclaimed American actor, director, and producer, considered one of the greatest of his generation. He has received numerous prestigious awards, including two Academy Awards, a Golden Globe, and lifetime achievement awards from AFI, the Kennedy Center, the Screen Actors Guild, and Cannes. He was also awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. De Niro's influence extends beyond acting, as he is also a film producer and restaurateur.

Sections (6)

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

1977: Recognition of Metamorphic Acting

In 1977, Newsweek remarked that Robert De Niro "gives you the shock of becoming, of a metamorphosis that can be thrilling, moving, or frightening," highlighting his transformative acting ability.

1983: Pauline Kael's Criticism

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

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1984: "Robert De Niro's Waiting..." Song Release

In 1984, the English girl group Bananarama released the fan song "Robert De Niro's Waiting...", which reached third place on the UK Singles Chart.

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1997: Mean Streets Selected for Preservation

In 1997, "Mean Streets" was selected for preservation in the U.S. National Film Registry by the Library of Congress.

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2005: Taxi Driver chosen as one of the 100 best films

In 2005, Time magazine chose the film "Taxi Driver" as one of the 100 best films of all time.

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2006: Donation to Harry Ransom Center

In 2006, Robert De Niro donated his collection of film-related materials to the Harry Ransom Center at the University of Texas at Austin.

2007: The Deer Hunter ranked as 53rd-greatest American film

In 2007, the American Film Institute ranked "The Deer Hunter" as the 53rd-greatest American film of all time.

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2007: Goodfellas Ranked in AFI's 100 Years...100 Movies list

In 2007, the American Film Institute ranked the movie "Goodfellas", starring Robert De Niro, as the 92nd-greatest American film of all time in their 10th Anniversary Edition of the AFI's 100 Years...100 Movies list.

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2009: Kennedy Center Honors

In 2009, Robert De Niro was announced as one of the Kennedy Center Honorees, recognized for his commitment to his characters and co-founding a major film festival. He was honored by Martin Scorsese and Meryl Streep at the event.