Robert De Niro Slams Trump, Declares Art a "Threat to Dictators" in Fiery Cannes Address

On Tuesday evening at Cannes, Robert De Niro received an honorary Palme d'Or and used his acceptance speech to criticize President Donald Trump.

"Back home, we're putting up a fierce fight for the democracy we previously overlooked. This struggle impacts everyone present, as art serves as the melting pot that unites individuals, much like this evening. Art seeks out truth and welcomes diversity," stated De Niro from the stage. The Hollywood Reporter . Thats why art poses a danger. Thats why we represent a menace to dictators and fascists.

The actor's compelling remarks garnered applause from the audience and Leonardo DiCaprio, who paid homage to De Niro during the Grand Lumiére theatre event.

"America’s philistine president has appointed himself as the leader of one of our top cultural entities [the Kennedy Center]. He has reduced financial backing for the arts, humanities, and education. Now, he’s imposed a 100% tax on movies made outside the U.S. Consider this,” De Niro stated. “While creativity may be priceless, apparently we can place tariffs on it. This is clearly not acceptable. Each of these assaults is unacceptable. Furthermore, this issue extends beyond America; it’s a worldwide concern.”

De Niro went on to say, “similarly to how we engage with a movie, sitting passively isn’t an option here.” He encouraged everyone to take action "peacefully yet fervently and resolutely." The double Academy Award recipient additionally motivated the crowd at the film event to mobilize, demonstrate, cast their ballots, and "demonstrate our power."

The actor has persistently voiced his disapproval of Trump, including during various occasions. Megalopolis screening prior to the election. Additionally, he gave comments at an event. Biden-Harris event In May 2024. During an interview in December 2023, he stated that removing Trump was his top priority.

Trump seems to bring out the worst in individuals. He’s like a monster. Initially, when he got elected for the first time, I didn’t feel this way. I believed perhaps he would improve over time. But now, this man has become extremely hazardous, and my only wish is that others will come to understand his true nature as well. told Rolling Stone at the time. "Once you go down that road, it won't be easy to come back."

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