We spoke to the actor hours after he landed in Dubai to get a reaction to THAT viral video. Watch.
It isn’t often you get an A-lister to candidly express their thoughts about a political hot potato – in this case, The Donald. But while the Internet was lighting up with the video where he called Trump “blatantly stupid, a punk” and “someone I’d like to punch in the face”, De Niro was on a private jet on his way to Dubai blissfully unaware, we’d imagine, as to the virality of that clip.
Global Citizen Magazine was the first to interview after he landed and were the very first media in the world to get a reaction from him. Here it is:
The legendary actor is here to promote investment in the picturesque island of Antigua and Barbuda. UAE investors have the opportunity to invest in Callaloo Cay, a new five star overwater beach resort. De Niro is spearheading the development of this sprawling 32-acre prime beachfront property that boasts private villas, beach clubs, dining concepts and world-class spas. Australian billionaire James Packer who has already invested in the actor’s Nobu restaurants, is also a major investor in the Antiguan resort.
Speaking along with the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Hon. Gaston Browne, the actor is keen to impress upon Middle East investors that this is a sound economic proposition. Browne announced today that UAE investors would receive 25 years tax exemption if they invest in the island nation.
Sheikh Tariq Bin Faisal Al Qassimi is already one of the most prominent investors in the project. The plan thus far includes proposals to build 5,000 rooms in Antigua and by the time their investment road show is done in the UAE, they hope to secure investments and pledges to build at least another 2,500 rooms, according to Browne. One of the key incentives to investing in the island nation is also the ability to acquire citizenship – the country’s passport affords visa-free travel to over 130 countries Schengen States, UK, Singapore, Hong Kong and Canada, among others.
While it was all business for Robert De Niro here in Dubai, he knows that an endorsement from him can win over decision makers wildly – and a takedown from him can be lethal.
If you’ve been living under a rock, and haven’t seen that video epic video yet, here goes: