Hollywood icon Robert De Niro has prompted worries about his wellbeing after being photographed with a mysterious sling supporting his arm. The 82-year-old acting legend was seen wearing the sling during a backstage visit to his former co-star Mark Strong in New York City.
Backstage Visit Raises Questions
The Godfather star was pictured at Studio 54 after watching the Broadway play adaptation of Oedipus, where Strong stars alongside Lesley Manville. In the photos, a smiling De Niro posed between the two lead actors. This sighting came just weeks after he was seen at an event in London in mid-November without any visible support on his arm.
Concerned fans and media outlets quickly noted the change. The Daily Mail contacted De Niro's representatives for comment. A spokesperson for the actor confirmed to People magazine that he had recently undergone a medical procedure, though no specific details were provided about its nature. The source added that De Niro would not need the sling "for much longer."
A History of Recent Health Incidents
This is not the first time De Niro's health has been in the spotlight recently. In recent months, he has also sparked concern when appearing in public looking noticeably thinner. Photos published in August showed him in summer attire, revealing a much slimmer frame compared to his bundled-up winter appearances.
The actor has maintained a busy schedule despite the sling. He made a surprise appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! in September and flew to Rome in early November for a visit with Pope Leo at the Vatican. This latest incident follows a significant leg injury De Niro suffered in May 2021 on the set of Martin Scorsese's Killers of the Flower Moon.
Past Injury and Recovery
In an interview with Indiewire at the time, the Oscar winner revealed he had torn his quadriceps in a simple accident. "I tore my quad somehow," he said. "[It was] just a simple stepping over something and I just went down. The pain was excruciating and now I have to get it fixed."
He noted that such incidents become more common with age, stating, "you have to be prepared for unexpected things." However, he reassured that the injury was manageable for his role, describing his character as "pretty much sedentary." He completed the necessary procedure and continued filming, with the epic drama released in 2023.
The actor's recent public appearance comes as his daughter, Drena De Niro, recently spoke about her teenage son's accidental drug overdose two years earlier. For now, fans await further updates on the veteran actor's condition and hope for a swift recovery.
