Renowned actor and filmmaker Robert De Niro received the prestigious honorary Palme d’Or at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, held on May 13, 2025. The award recognized his decades of contributions to the world of cinema.
The tribute took place during the festival’s opening ceremony at the Palais des Festivals, where De Niro was accompanied by his partner and daughter. The award was presented by fellow actor Leonardo DiCaprio, marking a memorable moment in the event’s history and highlighting De Niro’s past role as Jury President in 2011.
During his acceptance speech, De Niro addressed broader cultural themes, emphasizing the importance of artistic freedom and the role of the arts in democratic societies. His remarks touched on concerns related to the evolving relationship between politics and cultural institutions in his home country.
The speech sparked conversations both within and beyond the festival, adding a reflective and thought-provoking layer to the celebration of his career.