how old was robert de niro in goodfellas

Vonbon Hill

less than a minute read

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02-12-2024

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Robert De Niro's portrayal of the volatile, ambitious, and ultimately tragic character of Jimmy Conway in Martin Scorsese's Goodfellas remains one of his most iconic performances. But how old was De Niro himself when he filmed this cinematic masterpiece?

De Niro's Age During Filming

At the time of Goodfellas' production, which spanned from August 1989 to February 1990, Robert De Niro was 46 years old. This is a noteworthy detail, as the character of Jimmy Conway ages significantly throughout the film, experiencing a rise and fall in his criminal career. De Niro's ability to convincingly portray both the youthful ambition and the weary cynicism of a much older man is a testament to his exceptional acting prowess.

The Role and the Actor

The age difference between De Niro and his character at the film's start is less important than the actor's ability to capture the essence of Conway's journey. De Niro's performance wasn't simply about mimicking a specific age; it was about embodying the complex emotions and experiences that shape a life lived on the edge. He expertly conveyed Conway's evolution through the narrative, adding layers of depth and nuance to a character who is both captivating and deeply flawed.

Beyond the Numbers

While the specific age of De Niro during filming is a point of interest for many fans, it's important to remember that his age was secondary to his powerful performance. Goodfellas remains a cinematic triumph in large part due to De Niro's masterful portrayal of Jimmy Conway, transcending the simple question of age and solidifying its place as a classic of the gangster film genre.