When you think of Hollywood legends, few names shine as brightly as Robert De Niro. Known for his riveting performances and versatile roles, De Niro has carved a niche in the cinematic universe that few can rival. But beyond the screen, this iconic actor harbors a trove of lesser-known facts that are as fascinating as his films. Today, we’re lifting the curtain to reveal the man behind the characters we’ve come to cherish.
Born in Manhattan on August 17, 1943, De Niro’s journey to stardom is a tale of passion and perseverance. As a young boy, he was captivated by the allure of acting, a flame ignited by his first role in ‘The Wizard of Oz’ at just ten years old. This early exposure to the stage set him on a path far from ordinary. Dropping out of high school to chase his dream, De Niro’s bold move is a testament to following one’s true calling, no matter the stakes.
But it’s not just his acting that makes De Niro stand out. His unwavering dedication to his roles is legendary. From altering his physical appearance drastically to immersing himself in the psyches of his characters, De Niro’s commitment blurs the line between reality and performance. This intensity brings a unique authenticity to his roles, making each character unforgettable.
In this list, we’re diving deep into the world of Robert De Niro. And unearthing facts that reveal the man behind the myth. From his early days in Greenwich Village to his ascension as a Hollywood icon, every paragraph is a brushstroke on the canvas of his life. So, sit back and prepare to see Robert De Niro in a light you’ve never seen before.
10 – He Didn’t Want To Be An Actor Growing Up
Strange as it may seem for someone who become so successful it seems De Niro didn’t grow up dreaming of becoming an actor. It is reported that until a life-changing visit to a local cinema close to where he lived, it was not anything he had mentioned. Upon leaving the cinema though, the then 17-year-old De Niro announced to friends that he had decided to act for a living. Leaving his senior year at high school, he enrolled in the Stella Adler School of Acting and the rest is history!
09 – He Grew Up In The Same Neighbourhood as Scorsese
A large part of De Niro’s career and success is tied up with the director Martin Scorsese. De Niro’s biggest and most respected films have usually involved Scorsese behind the camera and they have both done well out of the partnership. What is strange is that they actually grew up very close to each other in Greenwich Village, New York. Although they recall seeing each other around at parties, it wasn’t until they were officially introduced when adults that they physically met.
08 – He Won’t Be Visiting France Anytime Soon
07 – He Is A Successful Restaurant Owner
As well as being a mega-successful actor, the actor is also a respected restaurant owner. It is said he owns or co-owns places such as Nobu, Tribecca Grill and Rubicon which are all wildly popular with customers. Many of the places he owns have paintings produced by his father Robert De Niro Snr who was a prolific expressionist painter by all accounts. Although it is not known how hands on he is, it seems that the golden touch he brings to acting has also transferred into the catering business.
06 – Taxi Driver’s Most Famous Scene Was Improvised
As we have already noted, one of De Niro’s most celebrated performances was as Travis Bickle in the film Taxi Driver. In this film, De Niro teamed up with director Martin Scorsese to deliver a powerhouse production of unrivalled quality. Probably the most famous scene is when De Niro’s character delivers a monologue into a mirror. And uttering the immortal lines “You talkin’ to me?”.
What is interesting is that the dialogue that is now so well-known was actually improvised by De Niro when filming started. There was no speech in the script from Scorsese. Instead, the only direction was for De Niro to glare maniacally into the mirror itself.
05 – De Niro Spent Two Weeks As A Cab Driver To Prepare
A key aspect of the startling performance he put in as Travis Bickle was the preparation he did for it. This mainly consisted of De Niro spending a full two weeks working as a proper cab driver in New York to get a feel for the character! This is just one famous example of the ‘method acting’ approach he took to his roles. ‘Method acting’ was actually taking on the persona of the character he was playing and actually becoming them, rather than just acting it when the cameras started rolling. Other examples are gaining weight when playing Al Capone in ‘The Untouchables’ and moving to Sicily before filming ‘The Godfather II’.
04 – Meryl Streep Is His Favourite Co-Star
When you look at who De Niro has worked with over the years it is like a who’s who of the great and good. People like Al Pacino, Joe Pesci and Marlon Brando are just some of the celebrated co-stars he has shared screen time with. Interestingly though, his favourite person to work with by all accounts is actress Meryl Streep. They have worked together on a few different films and it seems De Niro holds her in high esteem.
03 – He Made A Full Recovery From Prostate Cancer
In 2003, it was announced that the actor had contracted Prostate cancer. This was naturally a huge worry for him along with his close family and friends. Of course, his millions of fans worldwide were shocked to hear the news also. In a happy ending to the story, De Niro made a full recovery from the illness and has remained in great health ever since.
02 – He Has A Reputation For Being A Bit Difficult
One of the enduring myths around De Niro is people wondering what he is really like in his real life. Because people only really see him in character, it leaves a lot of room for mystery as to the man himself. From all accounts, it seems he is a bit difficult and not one for small talk! Many an interviewer has been on the receiving end of a terse reply or walk-out if they upset him and some co-stars have reported him to not be the friendliest of people to work with. In his defence, it is also said that he is a very private and shy man in real life which would explain the above. It may be that rather than being cold or aloof, he is actually just not very good with strangers!
01 – Bobby Milk
His rather unmacho nickname when growing up in New York was Bobby Milk! This was apparently due to the fact that he was so pale, he was like a milk bottle. Of course, I’m sure this doesn’t bother the multi-millionaire actor now. But at the time, it must have been pretty bad. Maybe all the rage he built up inside over the years he was known as that is what fuels his intensity on screen?! If so, getting such a nickname when young might have been a good thing for his career in the long-run!
Undoubtedly, Robert De Niro is one of the most talented and watchable actors of recent times. His ability to inhabit any character he plays along with always providing a nuanced performance is simply exceptional. Still going strong in Hollywood, he will no doubt star in a few more films to showcase his supreme skills before much longer! De Niro’s legacy, like his career, is far from monolithic. It’s a tapestry woven with threads of talent, hard work, and an unyielding passion for the craft. In uncovering these 10 obscure facts, we’ve not only gained insight into De Niro the actor. But also De Niro the man – a figure as captivating off-screen as he is on it.
The Hidden Lens: Robert De Niro’s Impact on the World of Cinema
In this topic, we turn our focus to an often-overlooked aspect of Robert De Niro’s career.
- Pioneering Film Techniques: De Niro has been at the forefront of pioneering new filming techniques. His insistence on authenticity led to groundbreaking approaches in method acting, influencing how characters are portrayed in modern cinema. His films often incorporated innovative techniques, setting new standards in storytelling.
- Influencing a Generation of Actors: De Niro’s dedication to his craft has inspired a whole generation of actors. His ability to transform into his characters has been a masterclass for aspiring performers. His influence extends beyond his filmography, as he has indirectly mentored many through the example he set.
- Contributions to Independent Cinema: Beyond mainstream Hollywood, De Niro has been a staunch supporter of independent cinema. His co-founding of the Tribeca Film Festival showcases this commitment. The festival has become a platform for emerging filmmakers, reflecting De Niro’s dedication to nurturing new talent and diverse voices in the industry.
- Advocacy and Social Impact: Off-screen, De Niro has used his status to advocate for various social issues. From political commentary to supporting artistic freedom, his voice has added weight to important conversations. This aspect of his career highlights the role of celebrities in shaping public discourse.
- Evolution of Film Genres: De Niro’s career has spanned a wide range of genres, from crime dramas to comedies, each time redefining genre boundaries. His versatility as an actor has reshaped various film genres. He often blends elements in unique ways.
Robert De Niro’s contributions to cinema go beyond his performances. His lasting impact on the industry, from technical innovations to inspiring future talents, and his role in the evolution of film genres, cements his status not just as an actor but as a pillar of the cinematic world.