Hollywood actor Robert De Niro used his Cannes Film Festival moment to attack President Donald Trump — but his comments were met with mixed reactions as Trump’s influence only continues to rise.

De Niro turns a celebration into a political rant

While accepting the honorary Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival, Robert De Niro, 81, turned what should have been a tribute to cinema into a political tirade.

Rather than focusing on his legendary film career, De Niro delivered a speech filled with sharp criticism of President Trump, calling him a “philistine president” and warning about threats to democracy.

“We are fighting like hell for the democracy we once took for granted,” De Niro told the audience at the Grand Lumière theater.

While some attendees applauded, many observers noted the growing trend of Hollywood stars using international platforms to promote personal political views — often disconnected from the realities most voters face at home.

Complaints about arts funding and tariffs
De Niro didn’t stop there.
He went on to criticize Trump’s recent appointment at the Kennedy Center, and the proposal of a 100% tariff on foreign-made films — a move designed to strengthen the American film industry and create new opportunities for domestic talent.

“You can’t put a price on creativity,” De Niro said, ignoring the broader goal of leveling the playing field for American businesses.

Many pointed out that Trump’s tariffs reflect the same America-first policies that have resonated with working-class voters, helping revitalize sectors long neglected by global trade deals.

Trump’s success continues despite Hollywood backlash
While De Niro used the Cannes stage to vent frustration, the bigger picture remains clear:
Donald Trump’s leadership continues to energize millions of Americans.

After defeating Kamala Harris in 2024, Trump returned to the White House with a renewed mandate to strengthen U.S. industries, secure the borders, and rebuild the economy.

Trump’s ongoing popularity among everyday Americans stands in sharp contrast to the Hollywood echo chamber, where celebrity endorsements often have little real-world impact.

In fact, past elections have shown that attacks from entertainers often boost Trump’s standing among voters who see through the elite media narratives.

Cannes audience divided
Even at Cannes, De Niro’s remarks sparked mixed reactions.
While some cheered, others noted that turning the world’s biggest film festival into a platform for partisan attacks felt inappropriate and self-serving.

Qatar Airways will buy 210 jets from Boeing, the companies announced Wednesday during President Donald Trump’s visit there. (Photo: Win McNamee via Getty Images) https://t.co/GfyVtWjISV pic.twitter.com/UMe1hQ4OTs

— Forbes (@Forbes) May 14, 2025

Instead of uniting people through the celebration of art, De Niro’s speech reminded many of the growing cultural divide between political celebrities and the citizens they claim to speak for.

As one social media user noted:

“De Niro should focus on acting, not lecturing hardworking Americans from a red carpet in France.”

Trump remains a dominant figure on the world stage
Despite repeated criticism from figures like De Niro, President Trump’s strength both domestically and internationally remains undeniable.

With a booming economy, tough foreign policy stances, and strong support from traditional working-class communities, Trump continues to demonstrate leadership that resonates far beyond Hollywood’s red carpets.

While Robert De Niro talks politics in France, Donald Trump focuses on making America stronger at home and respected abroad