10 fun and interesting Robert De Niro facts

1. Method Actor Who Goes Beyond the Script

Robert De Niro is renowned for his method acting approach, taking the time to deeply research and develop the characters he plays. He believes that in order to truly embody a character, he must understand their motivations and backstory, and so he spends a great deal of time researching or creating detailed backgrounds for each of his roles. This commitment to his craft has earned him numerous awards and accolades, cementing his status as one of the greatest actors of all time.

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2. From 'Bobby Milk' to Oscar-Winning Actor

As a child growing up in New York, Robert De Niro was given the embarrassing nickname “Bobby Milk” due to his pale complexion and slender frame. It was said that his nickname was derived from his pale skin, which made him look like he had been drinking milk. His nickname was a source of embarrassment for him, but it also served as a reminder of his humble beginnings and the hard work he put in to become the successful actor he is today.

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3. From Artist to Actor

Raised by two highly creative parents, Robert De Niro was immersed in the arts from a young age. His father, Robert De Niro Sr., was a celebrated abstract expressionist painter, while his mother, Virginia Admiral, was a poet, playwright, and painter. Growing up in this environment, De Niro was exposed to the world of art and creativity, which would later shape his own career as an actor and filmmaker.

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4. Robert De Niro's TriBeCa Productions Produces Successful Films

In 1989, Robert De Niro established his own production company, TriBeCa Productions, which has since become one of the most successful production companies in the entertainment industry. The name TriBeCa is an acronym for the Triangle Below Canal Street, a neighborhood in New York City where De Niro grew up. Since its inception, TriBeCa Productions has produced a number of critically acclaimed films, including Goodfellas, Casino, and The Irishman.

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5. Scandal-Free Actor since 1998

In 1998, Robert De Niro was accused of being involved in a prostitution ring while in France. He vehemently denied the charges and declared that he would never return to Paris again, a promise he has kept to this day. The scandal was a major blow to the actor's reputation, and he has since avoided the French capital.

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6. 10-Year-Old Actor Makes a Mark

At the tender age of 10, Robert De Niro made his acting debut as the Cowardly Lion in a school production of "The Wizard of Oz". This was the first of many roles that would go on to define his illustrious career, and it's a testament to his talent that he was able to make such an impact at such a young age.

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7. Robert De Niro's Favorite Actress: Meryl Streep

Robert De Niro has long held Meryl Streep in high regard, having gone on record to declare her his favorite actress to work with. The two have collaborated on several projects, including the 1982 drama 'The Deer Hunter' and the 1996 comedy 'Marvin's Room', and De Niro has praised Streep's talent and professionalism on numerous occasions. He has even gone so far as to call her "the best actress of her generation".

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8. Cancer Survivor, Advocate

In 2003, Robert De Niro was diagnosed with prostate cancer, but thankfully, he made a full recovery. After undergoing treatment, he was able to beat the disease and return to his normal life. His recovery was a testament to his strength and determination, and he has since become an advocate for prostate cancer awareness. He has used his platform to encourage men to get regular check-ups and to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the disease.

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9. From High School Dropout to Actor

At the age of 17, Robert De Niro made the bold decision to drop out of high school during his senior year in order to pursue his dream of becoming an actor. He enrolled in Stella Adler's renowned acting school, where he studied under the tutelage of the legendary acting teacher. De Niro's time at the school proved to be invaluable, as it provided him with the skills and knowledge necessary to become one of the most celebrated actors of all time.

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10. Two-time Academy Award winner

The legendary Robert De Niro has won two Academy Awards for his iconic performances alongside Marlon Brando. In 1974, he won the Best Supporting Actor award for his role in The Godfather Part II, and in 1980 he won the Best Actor award for his role in Raging Bull. De Niro's collaborations with Brando have been some of the most memorable in cinematic history, and his awards are a testament to his immense talent.