Robert De Niro Seen with Arm Sling for This Purpose

Legendary actor Robert De Niro was recently seen attending a Broadway performance, drawing attention after photos showed him with his right arm in a sling. The iconic performer was present at the theater, raising curiosity among fans about the cause of his injury.

De Niro was photographed backstage at Studio 54 in New York City on Wednesday, December 3, after watching the acclaimed play Oedipus. The production stars Mark Strong and Lesley Manville, who previously worked with De Niro in Stardust.

A spokesperson for the actor confirmed that De Niro had recently undergone a minor procedure. Witnesses at the theater noted that the actor mentioned he would need to keep the sling on for a few more days, hinting at a speedy recovery.

The appearance coincides with Oedipuss limited Broadway run, which officially began on November 13, following previews that started on October 30. The play will continue performances through February 8, 2026.

This adaptation, originally produced in Dutch by International Theater Amsterdam, premiered at the Edinburgh International Festival before moving to the West End, where it received critical acclaim and won the Olivier Award for Best Revival. Strong and Manville were also recognized for their performances.

Several original U.K. cast members joined the Broadway production, including Samuel Brewer as Teiresias, Bhasker Patel as Corin, Jordan Scowen as Eteocles, and James Wilbraham as Polyneices. The reimagined play turns Sophocles classic tragedy into a gripping contemporary political thriller, unfolding over a single election night as Oedipus awaits predicted results, with hidden secrets surfacing as the story rushes toward its dramatic conclusion.

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• Robert De Niro Spotted Wearing an Arm Sling for This Reason