Robert De Niro’s short visit to Rome has drawn criticism online.
The 82-year-old actor traveled to the Italian capital Thursday to receive the Lupa Capitolina, an honor presented by the city to recognize cultural and humanitarian contributions.
His appearance sparked renewed discussion about his political views, as the actor has been a vocal critic of President Donald Trump for years.
Footage circulated online showing the two greeting each other and smiling for photos.
The Pope then presented De Niro with a rosary. The exchange drew immediate online attention.
The award ceremony highlighted De Niro’s deep Italian roots and his comedic roots in film.
In 2004, the Order of the Sons of Italy in America opposed plans to honor him in Italy, arguing his film work promoted “unflattering and untrue stereotypes” of Italian-Americans.
The group stated he had “made a career of playing gangsters of Italian descent” and accused his roles of harming public perception.
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‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.the-express.com ’
