Robert De Niro Says His Fame Can Have ‘Negative Impact’ on His Kids Acting: ‘Most Important Thing Is to Work Hard’ (Exclusive)

**Robert De Niro Discusses Supporting His Children in Acting Career**

Robert De Niro, the acclaimed two-time Oscar winner, has recently spoken candidly about his support for his children who have chosen to pursue acting, while highlighting the significant challenges that come with it. The 83-year-old actor currently stars in Netflix’s film, *The Whisper Man*, where he plays the estranged father to Adam Scott’s character, Tom.

In an interview with *PEOPLE*, De Niro shared his thoughts on his children’s journeys in the entertainment industry, acknowledging the commitment required for a successful acting career. He remarked, “I’m okay with it, it’s just not as easy as you would think.” His reflection on the pressures facing those who step into the limelight reveals a deep understanding of both the triumphs and struggles that come with a life in acting.

De Niro, whose extensive filmography includes iconic roles in *Goodfellas* and *Taxi Driver*, recognised that the landscape of opportunities in Hollywood has changed substantially since he began his career. “I mean, I remember when I was younger, there were fewer opportunities,” he explained. “There’s one or two or three independent films, then the studio films, plays off-Broadway, off-off-Broadway. There wasn’t that much.” Despite the proliferation of platforms today, he asserts that landing roles remains a formidable challenge.

The veteran actor has seven children, some of whom have embraced the world of acting. His daughter Drena has accumulated over 45 acting credits, including notable films such as *A Star Is Born* and *Joy*. His son Julian has appeared in *In Dubious Battle* and portrayed a young Barack Obama in the series *The First Lady*. However, De Niro acknowledges the added scrutiny his children face due to his own illustrious career.

“It’s a commitment,” he said, regarding the pressures associated with being part of a prominent family within the film industry. De Niro emphasised that young actors must demonstrate sincerity and dedication to counterbalance expectations placed upon them. “If you don’t look like you’re really sincere about it and busting your ass and working hard, it’ll have a negative impact. If you can impress people that you are sincere and will go the distance, then it’ll work the other way tenfold.”

Additionally, De Niro remarked on the significance of hard work in the pursuit of success, reiterating, “The most important thing is to work hard because you really want to do it. And you really are committed. It’s not easy… It’s hard, and you have to work hard to get somewhere. And even then, there’s no guarantee.”

Adam Scott, who shares the screen with De Niro in *The Whisper Man*, offered his insights on watching his daughter, Frankie, consider a career in acting. Reflecting on his own challenging early years, he recalled, “I just immediately go to the years I had that were really tough, sitting in my gross little apartment waiting for an audition.” He began his career doing background work and is well aware of the difficult path ahead for aspiring actors.

Scott echoed De Niro’s remarks regarding the unique challenges faced by young talent with established parents in the industry. “It was hard for years, whether or not you have a leg up in show business, like Bob said, it really isn’t that much of a leg up,” he stated. “You have to prove yourself tenfold because there are going to be more eyes on you potentially.”

In *The Whisper Man*, De Niro and Scott are joined by a talented cast, including Michelle Monaghan, Hamish Linklater, and Michael Keaton. The film tells the story of a widowed crime writer who seeks the assistance of his retired detective father when his young son goes missing, intertwining themes of family and redemption.

As *The Whisper Man* continues to stream on Netflix, the insights shared by De Niro and Scott resonate not only within the world of acting but also reflect broader struggles of ambition and legacy. De Niro’s supportive stance towards his children encapsulates the blend of parental pride and awareness of the demanding nature of the performing arts, a testament to his understanding of a world he knows intimately.

Fans of both actors can witness their dynamic performances in this gripping narrative, which showcases the complex relationships between fathers and sons. For now, De Niro’s career remains as vibrant as ever, even as he navigates the next chapter of his life with his family navigating similar paths in an ever-evolving industry.