In a move reflecting the deepening divide in Hollywood and beyond, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has withdrawn a philanthropy award intended for Robert De Niro. This decision follows the actor’s fiery criticism of former President Donald Trump during a Biden campaign event.
The NAB’s reversal came as they feared De Niro’s politically charged remarks could overshadow the purpose of their Celebration of Service to America awards, which honors broadcasters’ philanthropic endeavors and civic contributions. Concerned that De Niro’s comments would detract from the event’s focus, the association chose to rescind his award and disinvite him from the ceremony.
During a press conference outside the Manhattan courthouse, where Trump is currently facing criminal charges, De Niro launched a scathing attack on the former president. “I don’t mean to scare you. No, wait, maybe I do mean to scare you,” the 80-year-old actor declared. “If Trump returns to the White House, you can kiss these freedoms goodbye that we all take for granted.” His inflammatory rhetoric continued with a heated, expletive-laden exchange with Trump supporters, further cementing his stance as a polarizing figure.
Alex Siciliano, NAB’s senior vice president of communications, addressed the decision to rescind De Niro’s award in a statement. “While we strongly support the right of every American to exercise free speech and participate in civic engagement, it is clear that Mr. De Niro’s recent high-profile activities will create a distraction from the philanthropic work that we were hoping to recognize,” Siciliano said. “To maintain the focus on service of the award winners, Mr. De Niro will no longer be attending the event.”
Siciliano emphasized that the event aims to celebrate the impactful work of local broadcasters and their contributions to their communities, highlighting its bipartisan nature. “This event is proudly bipartisan, uniting those from across the political spectrum to celebrate the impactful work of local broadcasters and our partners,” he stated. “We look forward to a night of celebration honoring the exceptional work of broadcasters and our partners who make a difference in their communities every day.”
Despite the snub, De Niro appeared unfazed, telling The Hill, which first reported on the rescinding, that he supports and appreciates the work of the NAB and wishes it well.
Former President Trump, never one to shy away from a confrontation, responded to De Niro’s comments with his characteristic bluntness. “I never knew how small, both mentally and physically, Wacko Former Actor Robert De Niro was,” Trump railed in a Truth Social post.
This incident indeed highlights the ongoing divisions within American society, particularly evident in the interactions between public figures like Robert De Niro and organizations like the NAB. De Niro’s outspoken political stance against Trump and the NAB’s decision to revoke his award illustrate the difficulties faced by institutions aiming to maintain a nonpartisan stance in today’s polarized environment.
As the 2024 election approaches, these clashes between Hollywood’s liberal voices and conservative figures may intensify, reflecting broader societal debates. However, the NAB remains committed to honoring individuals who contribute positively to their communities, ensuring that their recognition emphasizes service over divisive political rhetoric. This approach underscores a continued effort to uphold the values of unity and community impact amid contentious public discourse.
