"I've never been one of those actors who has touted myself as a fascinating human being. I had to decide early on whether I was to be an actor or a personality"

Robert De Niro expresses a humble and grounded view of his career and personal identity, drawing a clear distinction between the craft of acting and the allure of celebrity. He reflects on the often-blurred line between artists who immerse themselves in their characters and those who leverage their public personas for attention. De Niro admits he never considered himself particularly fascinating outside of his work, suggesting a focus on his skills and contribution to storytelling rather than his private life or charisma.

There is an inherent commentary here on the expectations placed on public figures, particularly actors, in contemporary culture. Many people are drawn to personalities who command attention off-screen, who maintain a captivating public presence and share glimpses of their private lives. De Niro, however, expresses a conscious decision to avoid this path. He saw that he could pursue fame as "a personality" or dedicate himself fully to his craft as "an actor", and he deliberately chose the latter. Implicit in his words is a respect for the artistry of acting as distinct from the performative nature of celebrity.

By emphasizing his decision, De Niro advocates for actors who cultivate their talent and allow their work to speak for itself. His approach rejects the notion that an actor needs to be perpetually in the limelight or constantly engaging with the public to prove their worth. Instead, he models the idea that dedication to one's art should come before self-promotion. This attitude also hints at a deeper authenticity, an integrity in maintaining boundaries between personal identity and professional roles. For De Niro, substance triumphs over style, and genuine creative expression takes precedence over the fleeting fascination of media attention or celebrity culture.