Robert De Niro, a fixture in major awards ceremonies for 28 years, faces exclusion this season. The Presenter’s Committee, tasked with selecting and vetting presenters, unanimously voted him out. James Woods remarked, “Nobody wants to see him recite his angry speech. He looks silly, like a little white Papa Smurf.” Oscar Chairman Joe Barron labeled De Niro a “toxic little goon” and doubts any award show will invite him soon. Barron added, “He’s lucky he’s never been a Chris Rock’s distance from Will Smith.” The Golden Globes removed De Niro, and similar actions are expected at the Emmys and Grammys. De Niro’s absence marks a significant change in Hollywood’s elite events, signaling a shift in the dynamics of these star-studded affairs.
