Washington DC: Legendary Hollywood actor Robert De Niro was refused the National Association of Broadcasters' Service to America Award after he was chosen as the winner and was to be honoured next Tuesday. The organization rescinded the award, citing that Niro made deplorable comments against former US President Donald Trump, such as calling him a joker, NDTV reported.
An 80-year-old Oscar winner, Niro was a staunch critic of Trump over the years and was invited to Joe Biden's presidential campaign. Niro had accused Trump of inciting violence and destruction at the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, and called the Republican a threat to the country.
The actor said it is noted with concern if Trump returns to the White House, Americans could forget the freedoms they take for granted, such as elections.
"I don't mean to scare you. No no, wait, maybe I do mean to scare you. If Trump returns to the White House, you can kiss away these freedoms that we take for granted and elections, forget about it," NDTV quoted him.
Calling Trump a "clown", Niro said that the US has forgotten the lessons from history that showed other clowns, who were not taken seriously until they turned into vicious dictators.
"With Trump, we have a second chance, and no one is laughing now," he said. He reminded this is the time to stop Trump by voting him out "once and for all". If he became president again, "he will never leave", Niro said.
Niro told Sky News that Trump should not be president since he sees him as a monster. Trump must not be allowed to become the top post again, Niro said.
Meanwhile, explaining the cancellation of the award to Niro National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation, which offers the award, told The Hill website that their award is bipartisan. The organization claimed that the award intends to unite "those from across the political spectrum to celebrate the impactful work of local broadcasters and our partners". Though they strongly support the right of free speech and participate in civic engagement, Niro's recent political activities create "a distraction from the philanthropic work that we were hoping to recognize." Therefore, De Niro will "no longer attend the event", the organization said.