At the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, Robert De Niro not only received the prestigious honorary Palme d’Or but also made headlines with a bold critique of Donald Trump during his acceptance speech. The 87-year-old actor, accompanied by his 45-year-old girlfriend Tiffany Chen and daughter Helen Grace, used this prominent platform to address pressing political issues.
In his speech, De Niro did not hold back, labeling Trump as “America’s philistine president.” He denounced several of Trump’s controversial policies, including the appointment of a figure to head the Kennedy Center who lacks a background in the arts and the proposed 100% tariff on foreign films. De Niro emphasized that these decisions are not merely domestic concerns but have far-reaching implications worldwide, affecting cultural exchange and artistic integrity.
He passionately urged attendees and viewers alike to recognize the importance of protecting democracy and the arts, framing these issues as fundamental to the collective future of society. “We must act with passion and determination,” De Niro declared, rallying the audience to advocate for education and the arts in the face of what he sees as detrimental policies.
The speech elicited a spectrum of reactions on social media. Many praised De Niro for his courage and commitment to speaking out against what they perceive as threats to cultural values. Supporters highlighted the importance of artists using their platforms to champion social issues. Conversely, critics accused him of being out of touch with mainstream America, arguing that such political statements could alienate audiences.
Regardless of the mixed responses, De Niro’s fiery words resonated with many, sparking conversations about the role of art and culture in a democratic society. His call to action served as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to defend creative expression and civic engagement in a polarized political landscape.
