Liberal actor Robert De Niro has had his National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Leadership Foundation's Service to America Award rescinded after unleashing an anti-Trump tirade outside the former president's Manhattan trial. De Niro's remarks during a Biden-Harris press conference were deemed too divisive by the NAB, which is a "proudly bipartisan" organization.
Robert De Niro, a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump, has lost a prestigious award due to his scathing remarks outside Trump's recent Manhattan trial. The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has withdrawn its Leadership Foundation's Service to America Award, which De Niro was set to receive next week.
The NAB cited De Niro's "recent high-profile activities" as a "distraction" from the philanthropic work the award recognizes. The actor's attendance at a Biden-Harris press conference, where he slammed Trump as a "danger" to Americans, was specifically mentioned in the NAB's statement.
De Niro, who was met with protesters' shouts during the press conference, argued that Trump "doesn't belong" in New York City and accused him of wanting to "destroy" the city and the nation. The actor also expressed his support for the Biden-Harris campaign, emphasizing the need for a change in leadership.
"I hope this new ad campaign reaches outside the bubble to remind supporters of what a danger he is to our lives," De Niro said of Trump. "This is not a threat. This is our reality. And that's why I've joined the Biden-Harris campaign."
After the remarks, the situation turned chaotic as De Niro was heckled by Trump supporters and engaged in a shouting match with a man in a MAGA hat. President Biden and Vice President Harris were not present during the event.
Trump responded to De Niro's outburst on social media, calling him "pathetic" and a "wacko." The NAB also emphasized its strong support for free speech and civic engagement, but expressed concern that De Niro's actions would overshadow the award ceremony.
De Niro, after being informed of the withdrawal of his award, expressed appreciation for the NAB's past work but acknowledged the organization's decision.
"I support the work of the NAB Leadership Foundation and would like to express my appreciation and gratitude for what the Foundation has done and will continue to do for the good of us all," De Niro said.
The NAB Leadership Foundation did not provide additional comment on the matter. The decision to revoke De Niro's award highlights the ongoing political divide in the United States and the sensitivity of public figures' statements.
