Robert De Niro often plays tough-guy roles, but his real-life personality is quite different. Ben Stiller recently opened up about his 26-year friendship with the actor. He shared what makes De Niro such a special person off-screen. The two first worked together on Meet the Parents in 2000. They are now reuniting for the franchise’s fourth installment, Focker-in-Law.
Speaking to Extra at the new film’s New York premiere, Stiller reflected on how his relationship with De Niro has evolved over the years. He also discussed how their characters have grown older alongside them.
Ben Stiller shares what makes Robert De Niro such a loyal friend
Stiller explained that returning to the franchise has given him an opportunity to grow alongside his character, Greg Focker. He said, “We come back together on these movies. It’s been fun to kind of have that experience of growing older with the character and the changes in life that he’s going through.”
The actor also pointed out an interesting parallel between their characters in the upcoming film. In the original 2000 comedy, De Niro played Jack Byrnes, the intimidating father of Greg’s girlfriend, Pam (Teri Polo). Now, Greg finds himself in a similar position when his son Henry (Skyler Gisondo) introduces his girlfriend, Olivia (Ariana Grande), to the family.
Stiller said, “Now, to get this point where Greg is basically the age that Jack was… and in a similar position, it’s crazy.” He added, “I feel like I’m still me.” Despite the changing circumstances, Stiller believes De Niro has maintained the same youthful personality. He said, “I look at Bob, and he’s so vivacious and young… He really is still just Bob.”
Stiller also praised the actor’s personality, saying, “He’s so sweet and so loyal and such a good friend to anyone whom he loves and he’s connected to, and he’s such a generous guy.” He added that he feels fortunate to share that connection with De Niro and said, “I always love seeing him.”
Focker-in-Law also features Teri Polo, Blythe Danner, Owen Wilson, Beanie Feldstein, and Eduardo Franco. The fourth installment of the franchise will hit theaters on November 25, 2026.
Originally reported on ComingSoon.
