Richard Grennell, the head of the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts, responded to actor Robert De Niro, who delivered a pointed anti-Trump speech at the Cannes Film Festival.
During the event, De Niro, known for his leftist views, attacked Donald Trump, labeling him a “fascist” and “Philistine” after he received the Honor Palme d’Or Award.
In his remarks, De Niro emphasized the need for Americans to “fight like hell for the democracy that was once taken for granted.”
“Art is true. Art embraces diversity. That’s why art poses a threat to dictators and fascists everywhere,” he stated from the stage. He criticized the Trump administration’s cuts to arts and education funding and mentioned new tariffs on foreign films.
Following De Niro’s comments, Grennell took to social media to counter his claims. He suggested that Hollywood should hold De Niro accountable for what he perceives as misinformation.
“The media should fact-check Robert De Niro in Cannes,” Grennell wrote. “He’s lying, and a confident liar can be harmful.”
He also noted that Trump has not reduced funding for the Kennedy Center, referring to requests for increased funding from the Trump administration.
“It’s the De Niro camp that seeks to stifle dissent and boo those with opposing views,” Grennell remarked.
In a subsequent post, he asserted that the left has politicized art and attempted to cancel individuals based on their beliefs, criticizing De Niro for wanting to impose ideology through art.
“At the Kennedy Center, we welcome everyone regardless of their political views. Everyone deserves entertainment without a political agenda,” Grennell concluded.
