Robert De Niro's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of Robert De Niro.

Robert De Niro is a highly acclaimed American actor, director, and producer, often considered one of the greatest actors of his generation. He's received numerous awards including two Academy Awards, a Golden Globe, and multiple nominations for BAFTA and Emmy Awards. De Niro's contributions to film have been recognized with prestigious honors such as the AFI Life Achievement Award, Kennedy Center Honors, Cecil B. DeMille Award, Presidential Medal of Freedom, and a Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award, solidifying his iconic status in the entertainment industry.

Sections (6)

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

1980: Raging Bull Release

In 1980, Robert De Niro starred in the biographical drama Raging Bull, directed by Martin Scorsese. He played Jake LaMotta, an Italian-American middleweight boxer, and gained 60 pounds for the role. The film received critical acclaim, though some found it exceedingly violent, and De Niro's performance was praised, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

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1990: Starred in Goodfellas and Awakenings

In 1990, Robert De Niro reunited with Martin Scorsese for Goodfellas, playing James Conway. Also in 1990, he starred in Awakenings.

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1991: Starred in Guilty by Suspicion, Backdraft, and Cape Fear

In 1991, Robert De Niro starred in Guilty by Suspicion, Backdraft, and Cape Fear, his seventh collaboration with Martin Scorsese. His performance in Cape Fear was widely lauded, earning him a Best Actor nomination at the Academy Awards.

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1999: Roles in 'Analyze This' and 'Flawless'

In 1999, Robert De Niro starred in Analyze This as an insecure mob boss and he was nominated for Best Actor at the Golden Globes. He also appeared in Flawless as a homophobic police officer.

2009: Kennedy Center Honors

In 2009, Robert De Niro was announced as one of the Kennedy Center Honorees and was honored by Martin Scorsese and Meryl Streep at the event.

2011: Starring roles and presidency of Cannes Film Festival jury

In 2011, Robert De Niro starred in the Italian comedy Manuale d'amore 3. He also appeared in Killer Elite, Limitless, and New Year's Eve. De Niro was also appointed president of the jury for the 2011 Cannes Film Festival.

2016: Received Presidential Medal of Freedom

In 2016, Robert De Niro received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama.

2017: Starred in The Wizard of Lies

In 2017, Robert De Niro starred as Bernie Madoff in Barry Levinson's HBO film The Wizard of Lies, earning him a Primetime Emmy Award nomination.

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2019: Portrayed Robert Mueller on Saturday Night Live

In 2019, Robert De Niro portrayed Robert Mueller on Saturday Night Live and received an Emmy nomination. He also received an Emmy Award nomination for his work as a producer on When They See Us for Netflix.

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2024: Withdrawal of Leadership Award from the National Association of Broadcasters

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