Robert De Niro Slams Trump at Cannes: Calls Him ‘Philistine President’ and ‘Enemy of the Arts’

Legendary actor Robert De Niro took a strong stance against Donald Trump during the Cannes Film Festival opening ceremony. As he accepted the festival’s honorary Palme d’Or, De Niro called Trump a “philistine president” and labeled him an enemy of the arts.

The award was presented to De Niro by his longtime collaborator Leonardo DiCaprio. The two worked together on films like “This Boy’s Life” and “Killers of the Flower Moon”. After receiving the honor, De Niro gave DiCaprio a kiss on the cheek before delivering a passionate speech about democracy and the importance of the arts.

“In my country, we’re fighting like hell for the democracy we once took for granted. And that affects all of us here because the arts are democratic,” De Niro said. “Art is inclusive. It brings people together, like tonight. Art looks for truth, art embraces diversity and that’s why art is a threat — that’s why we are a threat — to autocrats and fascists.”

De Niro also spoke out against Trump’s recent plan to impose a 100% tariff on all non-U.S. films. He expressed his disapproval, saying, “You can’t put a price on creativity, but apparently you can put a tariff on it.” He urged people not to ignore the issue. “Of course, this is unacceptable. All these attacks are unacceptable, and this isn’t just an American problem. It’s a global one.”

He encouraged people to act now and not just sit back like they are watching a movie. “Without violence, but with great passion and determination. It’s time for everyone who cares about liberty to organize, to protest, and when there are elections, of course to vote. Tonight, and for the next 11 days, we show our strength and commitment by celebrating art in this glorious festival.”

DiCaprio, who introduced De Niro, praised the actor for his courage and influence in the film world. He shared a story from his early career when he auditioned for “This Boy’s Life”. “I did the only thing I could think to stand out. I screamed at him at the top of my lungs,” DiCaprio recalled. De Niro chose him for the role, telling producer Art Linson, “Second kid from the last.” DiCaprio said this decision changed his life and marked the start of his acting career.

DiCaprio also highlighted De Niro’s consistent willingness to “show up” when it matters. “That’s the thing about Bob: he doesn’t say much, but when he does, it matters. Whether it’s for his friends, his family, fighting for democracy or supporting the art of filmmaking — he shows up.”

Reflecting on Cannes, De Niro expressed his deep connection to the festival: “I have such close feelings for Festival de Cannes… Especially now when there’s so much in the world pulling us apart, Cannes brings us together — storytellers, filmmakers, fans, and friends. It’s like coming home.”

De Niro continues to be active in film and television. Recently, he starred in “The Alto Nights” and Netflix’s “Zero Day”. His upcoming projects include “Tin Soldier” with Jamie Foxx and “The Whisper Man” with Michelle Monaghan and Michael Keaton.

Have something to add? Let us know in the comments below!