Robert De Niro is one of the most respected actors of all time, known for his intense method acting and commitment to his craft. But even De Niro. couldn’t escape the relentless ribbing of Don Rickles on the set of the 1995 film Casino.
Don Rickles, the legendary comedian known for his sharp wit and biting humor took a particular liking to tormenting De Niro. He would badger him constantly while filming Casino, directed by Martin Scorsese.
How Robert De Niro Was Harassed and Bullied By Comedian Don Rickles on Casino Set?
Robert De Niro, one of the most revered actors in Hollywood, has a long and illustrious career filled with iconic roles and brilliant performances. Yet, even legends like him can find themselves facing unexpected challenges on set.
During the shooting of Martin Scorsese’s 1995 classic Casino, De Niro encountered one such challenge in the form of Don Rickles, the iconic comedian known for his sharp wit and relentless humor.
Don Rickles, famous for his acerbic humor and roasts, took his trademark wit to the set. He incessantly badgered and bantered with De Niro throughout the filming.
On the Rich Ellen Show, actor Kevin Pollak shared some moments from the set of Casino. He said:
“De Niro is acting saying his dialogue. Rickles character is just standing there as he does for most of the film. He’s not supposed to speak and in the middle of take he’d looked at the hair and said it’s not the way. You’re gonna do it like that.. No no, you got the award sure. You know what, you’re doing bad.”
Pollak added:
“Rickles knew that he owned De Niro because De Niro worshipped Rickles. And Rickles told me this one day. He said I own this guy. Because when he was a kid there were two types of pear groups on the street corners in New York. When De Niro grew up there was doo-wop groups and put-down groups and De Niro was in a put down group. To them Rickles was God and Rickles found out about it and went after him every day did he really it was unbelievable.”
Don Rickles was a master of the art of making people laugh, even if they were the target of his jokes. Rickles was also a gifted actor, appearing in films such as Casino, Kelly’s Heroes, and Enter Laughing.
The true comedy legend passed away on April 6, 2017, at the age of 90.
Robert De Niro in Martin Scorsese’s Classic Casino
Directed by the legendary Martin Scorsese, Casino is a crime drama masterpiece that takes viewers deep into the tumultuous world of Las Vegas casinos during the 1970s and early 1980s. The film boasts an ensemble cast that includes Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Sharon Stone.
In Casino, De Niro played the role of Sam “Ace” Rothstein, a character that demanded a meticulous and intense portrayal. This method acting approach contrasted sharply with Rickles’ improvisational style.
Casino remains a classic in the crime drama genre, and Robert De Niro’s performance is a testament to his acting prowess and ability to elevate any role he takes on.
Watch Casino on Prime Video.
