Academy Award-winning actor Robert De Niro has never shied away from expressing his views on President Donald Trump, but during a recent television interview, his criticism took an intensely emotional turn. Speaking with Nicolle Wallace on MSNBC's "MS NOW" program, De Niro's voice cracked as he described the current state of the United States under Trump's leadership.
A Stark Warning About National Destruction
"The story is our country, and Trump is destroying it, and who knows what his reasons are, but it's sick, it's messed up," De Niro stated emphatically. "We have to save this country." The actor painted a dire picture of a nation at a critical crossroads, suggesting Trump's presidency represents a threat to democratic traditions.
Emotional Moment About Unity and Division
The interview grew particularly poignant when Wallace asked De Niro why he consistently thanks crew members and staff at awards ceremonies. "You have to — you have to lift people up," he responded, his voice beginning to break. "You have to bring them together. You can't divide people, you can't win that way."
This reflection on unity led directly back to his critique of Trump's divisive approach to governance. "It's a no-win situation, and look what we have, look who we have there, it's almost like a destiny to have this thing there, destroying... attempting to destroy this country and maybe not even understanding why," De Niro continued. "So it's up to us to protect the country."
The Call for Resistance
Wallace, visibly moved by De Niro's passion, noted that America seems to be facing a moment where things could go "one way or the other" — a clear reference to the future of democracy. When pressed about which direction the country is heading, De Niro admitted uncertainty but issued a powerful call to action.
"All I know is people have to resist, resist, resist," he declared. "There's no easy way. It's not going to come to you easy. You know, there's a time when you know in your own life and your own survival, you better do this. You better jump and run through the fire because if you don't run through the fire, you're not getting out, and that's what we have to do."
Historical Context of De Niro's Criticism
This isn't the first time De Niro has spoken out against Trump. In an interview with The Guardian last May, he explained his longstanding opposition. "The man is a bully, and you can't let bullies win. If a bully comes for your lunch money on Monday, he's going to ask for more on Tuesday. You have to stand up. And I wouldn't want to look at myself if I didn't," he told the publication.
Throughout the MSNBC interview, De Niro's emotional delivery underscored his deep concern about America's trajectory. His comments reflect a broader cultural moment where public figures are increasingly vocal about political issues, particularly regarding leadership they perceive as harmful to national unity and democratic values.
