Robert De Niro
Sep 15, 2026 · 1h 18m
Summary
Amy Poehler interviews Robert De Niro, discussing his early New York life, acting philosophy, and the tension in *Goodfellas*. To prepare, she consults Rachel Dratch, Seth Meyers, and Jane Rosenthal about De Niro’s personality and their shared experiences. The conversation highlights his shyness, his comedic side from *SNL*, and his enduring connection to the city and his craft.
Topics discussed
Hilton Hotel Superstition Commercial
Intro: Guests and Topics for the Episode
Uber Women Preferences Ad
Rachel Dratch Joins and Discusses Working with De Niro
Rachel Dratch's Impression of Robert De Niro
SNL 50th Anniversary: Debbie Downer Skit Details
De Niro's Shyness and Jimmy Fallon's Role
Allstate Insurance Ad
Seth Myers Prepares: Nerves and Bobblehead Story
Rachel Dratch on De Niro's Charity and Nerves
De Niro's SNL Hosting History and Laughing Style
Interview Tips: Authenticity and Pacing
First Table Read and The Good Shepherd Anecdote
Seth Myers' Nervousness About Interviewing Legends
The Pranksters Sketch and De Niro's Reaction
Zoom Setup and Transition to Interview
Interview Begins: 82 Champs and Football Injury
Jane Rosenthal Joins: Insight on De Niro
De Niro's Love for Food and New Experiences
Jane Rosenthal's Question: Watching with Helen
De Niro's Photographic Memory of NYC Locations
Interview: Shyness and Acting as a Quiet Kid
Growing Up in Greenwich Village
Artist Parents and Early NYC Influences
Early Theater: The Lion King and Drifting Toward Acting
The Untouchables and Improv Theater Roots
Scripted vs. Improvised Acting Preferences
Ebay Live and Allstate Ads
Hershey's and Burlington Ads
Filmography Review and Creating a Personal Festival
Goodfellas: The Scene with Lorraine Bracco
Ambiguity and Intuition in Acting
Director Feedback and Trust on Set
Elia Kazan Anecdote and Director-Actor Dynamics
Regret Not Playing an Instrument
TikTok Thirst Traps and Young Photos
Why De Niro Likes Comedy and Speed
Siegfried and Roy Impression and Quiet Laugher
Friendship with Martin Scorsese and Mean Streets
Nick Sheppard and Nora Ephron Anecdotes
Working with Ben Stiller and Ariana Grande
Tribeca Festival 25th Anniversary and Hot Takes
Walking in NYC and Listening Habits
Jane Rosenthal's Question: Movies with Helen
Closing Thoughts on Responsibility and Leadership
The Importance of Fighting for Change
SNL Ladies' Questions and Saturday Matinees
SNL Premiere and Wayne Newton Skit
SNL 50th Anniversary Performance Details
Watching the Skit and Final Review
Polar Plunge: Message to Younger Self
Outro and Goodbye
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