Top 50 Unknown and Interesting Facts about Robert De Niro

Renowned American actor and producer Robert Anthony De Niro is well-known for his renowned partnerships with filmmaker Martin Scorsese. Often considered as one of the most important performers of his time, De Niro has won multiple honors over the course of his remarkable career, including two Academy Awards, a Golden Globe, the esteemed Cecil B. DeMille Award, and the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award. His career has spanned several decades. De Niro was given the Kennedy Center Honors in 2009, and President Barack Obama presented him with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016.

The criminal film Mean Streets (1973), De Niro’s first significant project with Scorsese, laid the groundwork for one of the most fruitful actor-director duos in Hollywood history. His depiction of Vito Corleone in Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather Part II brought him his first Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor (1974). After six years, De Niro won the Best Actor Oscar for his performance in Raging Bull (1980), directed by Scorsese, as boxer Jake LaMotta.

With his iconic roles in Taxi Driver (1976), The Deer Hunter (1978), Awakenings (1990), Cape Fear (1991), Silver Linings Playbook (2012), and Killers of the Flower Moon (2023), De Niro has received multiple Oscar nods for her performances.

In this blog post, we will delve into 50 fascinating and lesser-known facts about Robert De Niro, giving you a glimpse into the man behind the iconic roles.

Early Life and Family Background

1. De Niro’s Italian Heritage Is from His Father’s Side

Robert De Niro’s father, Robert De Niro Sr., was of Italian and Irish descent, while his mother, Virginia Admiral, was of Dutch, English, French, and German ancestry. The actor has always proudly embraced his Italian roots.

2. His Nickname Growing Up Was “Bobby Milk”

De Niro earned the nickname “Bobby Milk” as a child due to his pale complexion. Growing up in Little Italy, New York, the young De Niro was often teased by neighborhood kids.

3. His Parents Were Both Artists

De Niro’s father was an abstract expressionist painter and his mother was a talented painter and poet. Growing up in an artistic environment had a profound influence on him and his future career in the arts.

4. His Parents Separated When He Was Just Two Years Old

De Niro’s parents split when he was very young, and he was raised by his mother in the Greenwich Village area of Manhattan, New York.

5. He Was a Shy Child

Despite his bold and intense performances on screen, De Niro was extremely shy as a child. His introverted personality may be why he took to acting, where he could lose himself in different characters.

6. He Dropped Out of High School

De Niro attended the High School of Music and Art in New York but dropped out at the age of 16 to pursue acting full-time. His passion for acting far outweighed his interest in formal education.

The Beginning of a Legendary Career

7. His First Acting Role Was in a School Play

De Niro caught the acting bug at the age of 10 when he played the Cowardly Lion in a school production of The Wizard of Oz. This experience ignited his lifelong passion for acting.

8. He Studied Under Iconic Acting Coaches

De Niro took his craft seriously, studying under renowned acting teachers like Stella Adler and Lee Strasberg. He trained in method acting, which would become one of the hallmarks of his approach to his roles.

9. His Early Film Work Included Several Independent Films

Before gaining widespread recognition, De Niro appeared in several low-budget independent films, including The Wedding Party (1969), Greetings (1968), and Hi, Mom! (1970), all directed by Brian De Palma.

10. He Auditioned for the Role of Sonny in The Godfather

Before his breakthrough, De Niro auditioned for the role of Sonny Corleone in The Godfather (1972). While he didn’t get the part, it opened the door to his role as the young Vito Corleone in The Godfather Part II (1974), for which he won his first Academy Award.

Iconic Roles and Method Acting

11. De Niro Gained 60 Pounds for Raging Bull

De Niro is known for his intense dedication to method acting. To portray boxer Jake LaMotta in Raging Bull (1980), De Niro gained 60 pounds for the scenes depicting LaMotta’s later years. This weight gain became one of the most talked-about physical transformations in Hollywood history.

12. He Drove a Taxi for 12 Hours a Day to Prepare for Taxi Driver

For his iconic role as Travis Bickle in Taxi Driver (1976), De Niro spent weeks driving a taxi around New York City to prepare for the part. This dedication to understanding his character added authenticity to his performance.

13. He Learned to Speak Sicilian for The Godfather Part II

To play the young Vito Corleone in The Godfather Part II, De Niro learned to speak Sicilian fluently. His performance was so convincing that he won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, despite delivering most of his lines in a foreign language.

14. He Gained 30 Pounds of Muscle for Cape Fear

For his role as the psychotic Max Cady in Cape Fear (1991), De Niro worked with a trainer and gained 30 pounds of muscle. He also paid a dentist $5,000 to grind down his teeth to make his character’s appearance more menacing.

15. He Worked as a Real-Life Short-Order Cook

To prepare for his role in The Deer Hunter (1978), De Niro spent time working as a short-order cook in a real diner. This hands-on experience helped him get into the mindset of his character, a working-class man from Pennsylvania.

Awards and Recognition

16. He Won His First Academy Award at Age 31

De Niro’s first Oscar win came in 1975 for his portrayal of the young Vito Corleone in The Godfather Part II. He won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor and became one of the few actors to win an Oscar for a performance primarily in a foreign language.

17. He Has Been Nominated for Seven Academy Awards

Throughout his career, De Niro has received seven Oscar nominations, winning two (Best Supporting Actor for The Godfather Part II and Best Actor for Raging Bull). His nominations include films like Taxi Driver, The Deer Hunter, and Silver Linings Playbook.

18. He Is a Two-Time Golden Globe Winner

De Niro has won two Golden Globe Awards: Best Actor for Raging Bull (1981) and the Cecil B. DeMille Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2011.

19. He Received the Kennedy Center Honors

In 2009, De Niro was awarded the Kennedy Center Honors for his contribution to American culture through the performing arts. This prestigious accolade recognized his lifetime of achievement in film.

20. He Co-Founded the Tribeca Film Festival

In 2002, De Niro co-founded the Tribeca Film Festival to help revitalize the Tribeca neighborhood of New York City after the September 11 attacks. The festival has since become one of the most prominent film festivals in the world.

Personal Life and Interests

21. De Niro Is a Father of Six

Robert De Niro has six children from three different relationships. He has often kept his personal life private but has spoken fondly of his role as a father.

22. He Married Twice

De Niro married his first wife, Diahnne Abbott, in 1976, and they divorced in 1988. He later married Grace Hightower in 1997, with whom he had an on-again, off-again relationship, eventually divorcing in 2018.

23. He Owns Several Restaurants

De Niro has expanded his career beyond acting and is a successful restaurateur. He is co-owner of the Nobu restaurant chain, a global luxury brand known for its fine Japanese cuisine.

24. He Is a Devoted New Yorker

Despite his fame and success, De Niro has always maintained a deep connection to New York City. He grew up there, launched his acting career there, and continues to call it home.

25. He Is a Philanthropist

De Niro is actively involved in charitable endeavors. He has supported numerous causes, including the fight against AIDS, cancer research, and disaster relief efforts.

Famous Collaborations

26. His Most Frequent Director Collaboration Is with Martin Scorsese

De Niro has worked with Martin Scorsese on nine films, including classics like Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, Goodfellas, Casino, and The Irishman. Their collaboration is one of the most celebrated actor-director partnerships in cinema history.

27. He Turned Down a Role in Big

De Niro was initially cast in the 1988 film Big, but due to scheduling conflicts, he had to drop out, and the role ultimately went to Tom Hanks. The film went on to become a classic.

28. He Worked with Al Pacino in Four Films

De Niro and fellow acting legend Al Pacino have shared the screen in four films: The Godfather Part II, Heat, Righteous Kill, and The Irishman. Their performances together have become iconic in cinema history.

29. He Has Worked with Leonardo DiCaprio Multiple Times

In addition to working with Scorsese, De Niro has collaborated with Leonardo DiCaprio on films such as This Boy’s Life (1993) and The Audition (2015). They have a close mentor-mentee relationship.

30. He Frequently Works with Joe Pesci

De Niro and Joe Pesci have starred in several films together, including Raging Bull, Goodfellas, Casino, and The Irishman. Their on-screen chemistry is widely regarded as some of the best in Hollywood.

Robert De Niro’s Passion for Filmmaking and Directing

31. De Niro Made His Directorial Debut with A Bronx Tale

In 1993, Robert De Niro made his directorial debut with A Bronx Tale, a crime drama based on a play by Chazz Palminteri. The film explored the complexities of growing up in an Italian-American neighborhood in the Bronx and was both critically acclaimed and successful at the box office.

32. He Directed Only One Other Film: The Good Shepherd

In 2006, De Niro directed The Good Shepherd, a historical drama about the early years of the CIA. The film starred Matt Damon and Angelina Jolie and received praise for its nuanced portrayal of espionage and U.S. history.

33. He Is Interested in Producing Films

De Niro co-founded the production company TriBeCa Productions in 1989, which has been responsible for producing numerous films and television shows. His interest in producing shows his commitment to storytelling behind the camera, in addition to acting in front of it.

34. He Was Originally Cast in The Departed

De Niro was initially offered the role of Frank Costello in Martin Scorsese’s The Departed (2006), but he turned it down due to his commitment to directing The Good Shepherd. The role eventually went to Jack Nicholson.

35. He Has a Long List of Rejected Roles

Over the years, De Niro turned down roles in major films such as Star Wars, Platoon, and An Officer and a Gentleman. While these films were successful, De Niro’s choices reflect his preference for complex and gritty roles that push his artistic boundaries.

De Niro’s Influence and Iconic Style

36. He Popularized the “You Talkin’ to Me?” Line

De Niro’s famous line “You talkin’ to me?” from Taxi Driver (1976) was improvised during the shoot. This line has since become one of the most iconic movie quotes in film history, often imitated by fans and actors alike.

37. He Is Known for His Distinct Acting Style

De Niro is widely regarded for his use of method acting. He is known to fully immerse himself in his characters by adopting their mannerisms, habits, and even physical traits. This dedication has led to legendary performances throughout his career.

38. He Has a Long-Running Rivalry with Al Pacino

While they are often compared as rivals for their iconic roles in gangster films, De Niro and Pacino are also close friends in real life. Their long-running professional relationship is based on mutual respect, even though comparisons between their performances are frequent.

39. He Is Often Cast as a Villain

De Niro is known for playing complex, morally ambiguous characters, many of whom are either villains or antiheroes. Some of his most memorable roles, including Travis Bickle in Taxi Driver and Jimmy Conway in Goodfellas, fall into this category.

40. He Popularized the Mobster Genre

Thanks to his roles in films like The Godfather Part II and Goodfellas, De Niro became one of the faces of the mobster genre. His performances helped shape how audiences view gangster characters, making him a go-to actor for crime dramas.

Honors, Accolades, and Personal Beliefs

41. He Is a Member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

De Niro has long been a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, where he votes on the annual Academy Awards. His deep respect for the art of filmmaking has made him a key voice in the industry.

42. He Is an Outspoken Political Advocate

De Niro is known for his outspoken political views, particularly his criticism of certain U.S. political figures. His political commentary has sparked public discussions and solidified his stance as a political advocate.

43. He Supports LGBT Rights

De Niro is a staunch supporter of LGBT rights and has actively participated in campaigns and causes aimed at promoting equality and acceptance for all. He even produced a documentary titled Remembering the Artist: Robert De Niro, Sr. about his father, who was openly gay.

44. He Was Once Under FBI Surveillance

During the 1960s and 1970s, the FBI reportedly placed De Niro under surveillance due to his association with left-wing activists and radicals. Although there were no charges, the incident speaks to the politically charged environment in which De Niro began his career.

45. He Is an Honorary Italian Citizen

Though born in the U.S., De Niro’s strong connection to his Italian heritage led the Italian government to award him honorary citizenship in 2006. He has expressed pride in his Italian roots throughout his career.

Other Ventures and Interests

46. He Owns Property in New York City

De Niro is a real estate mogul in New York City. He owns various properties, including homes and commercial spaces. His interest in real estate goes hand-in-hand with his desire to preserve and revitalize the city’s cultural landmarks.

47. He Is a Co-Owner of the Greenwich Hotel

De Niro co-owns the luxury Greenwich Hotel in New York City’s Tribeca neighborhood. The hotel is renowned for its unique design and world-class amenities, attracting celebrities and dignitaries from around the world.

48. He Invested in a Film Studio

In 2015, De Niro announced plans to build a major film studio complex in New York City, reflecting his deep commitment to supporting filmmaking in the city. The studio is expected to provide a space for both independent filmmakers and major productions.

49. He Has a Love for Martial Arts

De Niro has trained in martial arts for many years, which has helped him prepare for some of his physically demanding roles. His dedication to fitness and discipline is another example of his commitment to his craft.

50. He Is Still Active in the Industry

At over 80 years old, Robert De Niro continues to act, direct, and produce films. His work ethic and passion for cinema remain strong, and he shows no signs of slowing down. De Niro’s career trajectory demonstrates his timeless influence on the industry and sets an example for generations of actors to come.