In a revelation that stunned the fans and turned on a strong debate on social media, the legendary actor Robert De Niro publicly criticized the media magnate Oprah Winfrey, claiming that he is not qualified for being a role model for women. The observations, which emerged during an interview on a podcast known for her uncommon celebrities of celebrities, aroused a storm of fire both in Hollywood and in the wider cultural landscape.

De Niro, known for his blunt political commitment in recent years, did not hold back when he has been asked of influential figures in the American media. “Oprah built an empire, yes,” he said. “But this does not automatically make it a moral compass or someone that young women should look at. Being success in business does not mean that you are beyond criticism.”

According to De Niro, the real problem is not in the commercial results of Oprah, but with what he perceives as a disconnection between his public person and private influence. “It looks like this universally empathetic figure, but behind the scenes he played with games of power just like everyone else,” he added. “We need role models with integrity, not only influence.”

What surprised many listeners was not only the criticism itself, but the tone of De Niro. Unlike the previous political rashes, his comments on Oprah have been measured, detailed and delivered with a sense of personal disappointment. He spoke of a time when he admired his ascent from poverty to power, but he said that he has “lost his way” since then.

“He had the opportunity to be something truly rare in American culture: powerful, wise and coherent. But over the years he has chosen celebrities on sincerity,” said De Niro. “It’s not someone who would say to my daughters to follow.”

The reaction was explosive. While some fans praised De Niro for his honesty, others condemned the actor for what they see as an attack without foundation for one of the most respected black women in American history. Oprah representatives have yet to publicly respond to the comments.

De Niro’s critics claim that the decades of Filantropia of Oprah, revolutionary interviews and defense for health and mental education make it one of the most effective and influential role models of our time. “You don’t have to agree with everything he ever said or done,” a user tweeted, “but discredit it as a role model is simply absurd”.

The supporters of De Niro, on the other hand, say that it is exposing a truth that many are too afraid to recognize: that fame and philanthropy can mask personal interest and that public worship should never be confused for moral leadership.

This is not the first time that De Niro clashes with an icons of American culture. He has run against politicians, managing directors and even companions actors. But chasing Oprah – someone often seen as untouchable – perhaps mark the most polarizing move in his long and unpredictable public life.

As for Oprah, whether she responds or not, the conversation on her inheritance has been rekindled. And in an increasingly obsessed media panorama by authenticity, the border between influence and integrity is questioned again.