February 22, 2025 – Legendary actor Robert De Niro makes his highly anticipated television debut as the lead and executive producer of Zero Day, a gripping political thriller now streaming on Netflix. The six-episode limited series, which explores themes of cyber warfare, disinformation, and political division, has already sparked conversations worldwide.
A President Like No Other
In Zero Day, De Niro plays George Mullen, a revered former U.S. president called back into action to investigate a devastating cyberattack that threatens the nation. As he delves into the mystery, Mullen grapples with an increasingly fractured political landscape and his own personal demons. The character embodies a bygone era of bipartisanship, but as the crisis unfolds, Mullen begins to question everything he once believed in.
Executive producer Noah Oppenheim, known for The Thing About Pam and TODAY, shared insights into why De Niro was the perfect choice. “When you see Robert De Niro in a suit and tie with an American flag pin, he immediately commands the presence of a leader. But what makes him extraordinary is his ability to portray the inner complexities of his character—strength, vulnerability, and doubt all at once.”
De Niro’s Deep Involvement
Beyond starring in the series, De Niro played a crucial role in shaping Zero Day. According to executive producer Jonathan Glickman, De Niro provided valuable insights into political realism and the government’s response to cyber threats. His extensive knowledge of politics, combined with the expertise of Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Michael S. Schmidt—who served as a writer on the show—helped create a chillingly authentic storyline.
The series also boasts a powerhouse team, including co-showrunner Eric Newman (Painkiller, Griselda) and Lesli Linka Glatter (Homeland), who directed all six episodes. Newman praised De Niro’s endurance during the 103-day shoot, stating, “His work ethic was astounding. He approached every scene with the same intensity and precision as he would in a major film.”
A Thrilling Yet Timely Narrative
Set against the backdrop of a society grappling with misinformation, Zero Day examines the fragility of truth in the digital age. The show’s themes resonate with real-world issues, making it both an electrifying thriller and a thought-provoking commentary on contemporary politics.
Glatter emphasized De Niro’s collaborative spirit, noting, “He asks the most insightful questions and digs deeply into every aspect of his character. His passion and commitment inspired the entire cast and crew.”
With its gripping storyline and stellar performances, Zero Day has positioned itself as one of Netflix’s most talked-about releases of the year. Whether you’re a fan of political thrillers or simply want to see De Niro at his best, this series is a must-watch.
Zero Day is now available for streaming exclusively on Netflix.