RM Bruce Springsteen and Robert De Niro Announce Plans to Leave the U.S., Citing Lack of Respect

In a post-election development that seems almost cinematic in nature, music icon Bruce Springsteen and legendary actor Robert De Niro have announced their intention to step away from life in the United States following Donald Trump’s decisive reelection. Pointing to what they describe as a deep cultural rift and a growing sense of alienation, the two cultural heavyweights delivered an emotional and highly symbolic farewell to the country they have long called home.

Speaking at an impromptu press gathering outside a modest New York diner, Springsteen appeared visibly shaken. The musician, known for chronicling the American experience through his music, said the nation now feels unfamiliar to him. “I’ve written about America’s hopes, its struggles, its people,” he said. “But what we’re seeing now doesn’t resemble the country I once believed in.”

De Niro, never one to shy away from intensity, reinforced the message with characteristic flair. “This isn’t about escaping,” he said, gesturing emphatically. “It’s about being pushed to the margins. There’s a clear sense that we’re no longer welcome or respected here.”

Both men have been outspoken critics of Trump for years. De Niro has repeatedly condemned the former president in blunt terms, while Springsteen has often spoken about the divisions he feels Trump-era politics have deepened. They say the election result has only intensified their feeling that the values they cherish are being discarded.

Trying briefly to lighten the mood, Springsteen joked, “I’ve been called ‘The Boss’ my whole life, but it seems even working-class voices like mine don’t matter anymore.” Still, he made clear that the decision was a painful one. “Staying would mean pretending everything’s okay when it’s not.”

De Niro followed with a sharper observation. “It feels like we’re trapped in a poorly written film,” he said dryly. “And trust me, I know what bad movies look like. Even the most absurd comedies had more logic than this.”

While neither confirmed exactly where they plan to relocate, speculation suggests Springsteen may spend time in Italy, where his family roots lie. De Niro is rumored to be considering an extended stay there as well. “Italy values its artists,” De Niro remarked. “And yes—the food alone doesn’t hurt.”

Insiders hint that the pair could collaborate on a creative project abroad, possibly a documentary reflecting on their disillusionment with contemporary America. A working title reportedly in circulation is The Land We Left Behind.

Springsteen emphasized that the move should not be seen as surrender. “This isn’t quitting,” he said. “It’s stepping back—taking a break until the country finds its moral compass again.”

Public reaction has been swift and deeply divided. Many fans expressed sorrow at the thought of losing two figures so closely tied to American culture. “Bruce Springsteen is America,” one supporter wrote online. “If he feels forced to leave, that says a lot about where we are.”

Others were far less sympathetic, dismissing the announcement as privileged outrage. “Good riddance,” one critic posted. “Maybe Europe will appreciate the complaining.”

The contrasting reactions reflect a nation increasingly split along political and cultural lines. While Trump supporters view the reelection as a validation of their vision for the country, critics see it as a troubling sign for unity and progress.

“This isn’t just about politics,” Springsteen explained. “It’s about principles. I’ve always believed in the promise of America—but right now, that promise feels fractured.”

De Niro echoed the sentiment. “This country once stood for opportunity,” he said. “Now it feels driven by opportunism. That’s hard to watch.”

Throughout their careers, both men have championed ordinary people and spoken out against injustice. To many, their departure feels like a powerful act of protest—one as resonant as any song or film they’ve created.

“I’m still creating,” Springsteen insisted. “I’ll keep writing and singing. I just might be doing it from farther away.”

De Niro framed the moment in storytelling terms. “Every story has chapters,” he said. “Maybe this chapter of my American life is ending—but the next one hasn’t been written yet.”

Before leaving the press conference, Springsteen lifted a harmonica and played a somber version of This Land Is Your Land, moving several onlookers to tears. Standing beside him, De Niro offered a brief farewell: “Take care of this place while we’re gone.”

Whether their absence will be felt as a loss or a relief remains a matter of perspective. But one thing is clear: America is entering its next chapter without two of its most vocal and influential cultural figures close to home.