In a revelation that has stunned fans and sparked a fierce debate on social media, legendary actor Robert De Niro has publicly criticized media mogul Oprah Winfrey, claiming she is unqualified to be a role model for women. The remarks, which came during an interview on a podcast known for its unfiltered celebrity conversations, have set off a firestorm in Hollywood and the broader cultural landscape.
De Niro, known for his blunt political commentary in recent years, didn’t hold back when asked about influential figures in American media. “Oprah has built an empire, yes,” he said. “But that doesn’t automatically make her a moral compass or someone young people should look up to. Being successful in business doesn’t mean you’re beyond criticism.”
According to De Niro, the real issue lies not with Oprah’s business accomplishments, but with what he sees as a disconnect between her public persona and private influence. “She presents herself as this universally empathetic figure, but behind the scenes she plays power games like everyone else,” he added. “We need role models with integrity, not just influence.”
What surprised many listeners was not just the criticism — but Niro’s tone. Unlike previous political speeches, his comments about Oprah were measured, detailed and delivered with a sense of personal disappointment. He spoke of a time when he admired her rise from poverty to power, but claimed she had “lost her way.”
“She had the chance to be something truly rare in American culture: powerful, wise and consistent. But over the years, she chose celebrity over sincerity,” De Niro said. “That’s not someone I would tell my daughters to follow.”
The backlash was explosive. While some fans praised De Niro for his honesty, others condemned the actor for what they see as a baseless attack on one of the most respected black women in American history. Oprah’s representatives have yet to publicly respond to the comments.
De Niro’s critics argue that Oprah’s decades of philanthropy, groundbreaking interviews, and advocacy for mental health and education make her one of the most effective and influential role models of our time. “You don’t have to agree with everything she’s ever said or done,” tweeted one user, “but discrediting her as a role model is completely absurd.”
De Niro’s supporters, on the other hand, claim he is exposing a truth many are afraid to acknowledge—that fame and philanthropy can mask self-interest, and that public adoration should never be confused with moral leadership.
This isn’t the first time De Niro has clashed with icons of American culture. He’s taken jabs at politicians, CEOs and even other actors. But going after Oprah — someone often seen as untouchable — could mark the most polarizing move yet in his long and unpredictable public life.
As for Oprah, whether she responds or not, the conversation around her legacy has been reignited. And in a media landscape increasingly obsessed with authenticity, the line between influence and integrity is once again being questioned.
