"De Niro was a hero of mine. And Sean Penn. But I've realized I can't operate at that level of intensity. That's okay for movies. On TV, when you live with horror day in and day out, you have to protect yourself"

Christopher Meloni is describing the intensity of the functions that actors like Robert De Niro and Sean Penn have taken on in their careers. He is stating that he appreciates their work, but he has actually come to the realization that he can not run at the exact same level of intensity. He comprehends that this level of intensity is needed for movies, however he also knows that when it comes to television, he requires to safeguard himself from the scary that he is exposed to on a daily basis. He is acknowledging that he requires to look after himself and not get too caught up in the intensity of the roles he takes on. He is showing respect for the work of De Niro and Penn, while likewise understanding his own restrictions.