Robert De Niro Attacks Trump at Cannes: “America’s Philistine President”
Hollywood actor and renowned TDS sufferer Robert De Niro launched a fresh attack on President Donald Trump during the 78th Cannes Film Festival on Tuesday, labeling him “America’s philistine president.”
The longtime anti-Trump actor, who previously called the former president a “nasty little bitch,” made his comments after being presented with an honorary Palme d’Or by fellow U.S. actor Leonardo DiCaprio at the star-studded international event.
Despite De Niro’s criticism, Trump has advocated for protecting the American film industry by proposing 100 percent tariffs on foreign-made films, arguing that the U.S. movie business is “dying.”
De Niro’s speech included the following remarks:
“Art is the truth. Art embraces diversity. And that’s why art is a threat to the autocrats and the fascists of the world.
America’s philistine president has had himself appointed head of one of America’s premier cultural institutions.
He has cut funding and support to the arts, humanities and education.
And now he announced a 100% tariff on films made outside the United States. You can’t put a price on connectivity.”
READ: Robert De Niro Loses Prestigious Award, Banned from Event after Trump Meltdown
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DiCaprio praised De Niro as “the archetype” of a thespian and commended him for “fighting for our democracy.” As the audience gave a standing ovation, DiCaprio handed him the Palme d’Or.
“Thanks, kiddo,” said De Niro, according to the Associated Press.
De Niro also made headlines earlier this month after his son, Airyn De Niro—formerly known as Aaron—came out as a transgender woman. Airyn confirmed he began hormone treatment last year as part of his gender transition.
In an interview with Them magazine, Airyn said, “I think a big part of [my transition] is also the influence Black women have had on me.”
“I think stepping into this new identity, while also being more proud of my Blackness, makes me feel closer to them in some way.”
He added that both parents have been supportive of his decision.
Last May, Robert De Niro sparked controversy by comparing life under Trump to life under Nazi rule.
“I think that other people are gonna have to stand up, and just, because it’s either that, or you’re gonna find yourself in a situation that’s so terrifying,” De Niro said.
READ: Robert De Niro Flips Out over Trump in Latest Meltdown: ‘He’s a Jerk, an Idiot!’