Tuesday, June 4, 2024
Year : 2, Issue: 23
Entertainment Desk: Veteran actor and Oscar-winner Robert De Niro, 80, was scheduled to be honoured with the National Association of Broadcasters’ Service to America Award next Tuesday in Washington, DC. However, the award has been revoked following his recent controversial comments against former President Trump outside Trump’s criminal trial.
The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) stated that their ceremony aims to maintain a “proudly bipartisan” stance, leading to their decision to rescind the award.
In a statement to The Hill, a spokesperson for the NAB remarked, “This event is proudly bipartisan, bringing together individuals from across the political spectrum to celebrate the impactful work of local broadcasters and our partners. We fully support every American’s right to free speech and civic engagement.”
“However, De Niro’s recent high-profile actions will inevitably cause a distraction from the philanthropic work we intend to honour. To maintain the focus on the award winners’ service, De Niro will no longer be attending the event,” the statement added.
The actor harshly criticised Trump, labelling him a “threat” to the nation and accusing him of inciting the violence and destruction that occurred at the US Capitol on January 6, 2021.
He also labelled Trump a “clown,” noting, “We’ve forgotten historical lessons about other clowns who weren’t taken seriously until they turned into ruthless dictators. With Trump, we have a second chance, and no one finds it funny anymore.”
