Robert De Niro has described working on his latest Netflix project, Zero Day, as an intense experience, comparing it to filming three full-length movies consecutively. The 81-year-old Academy Award winner, who also serves as an executive producer, portrays former U.S. president George Mullen, who is forced out of retirement to lead an investigation into a devastating cyberattack that cripples the nation’s infrastructure.
During a special screening in London, De Niro reflected on the demanding nature of the six-episode series, explaining how the tight schedule pushed him to stay fully engaged in every aspect of the production. He likened the experience to swimming across the English Channel—constantly moving forward without a clear end in sight.
Created by Eric Newman and Noah Oppenheim, Zero Day is a political thriller that unfolds with a catastrophic “zero-day event” that shuts down air traffic control, subways, banking systems, and essential communications. Panic ensues when an ominous message follows, warning that such an attack will happen again. In response, U.S. president Evelyn Mitchell, played by Angela Bassett, calls upon Mullen to lead the Zero Day Commission, tasked with uncovering those responsible.
The series features an impressive ensemble cast, including Jesse Plemons as Mullen’s former aide Roger Carlson and Lizzy Caplan as his daughter, Congresswoman Alexandra Mullen. Gaby Hoffmann appears as Silicon Valley billionaire Monica Kidder, while Clark Gregg takes on the role of Robert Lyndon, a corporate raider and provocateur. The cast is further bolstered by Connie Britton, Joan Allen, and Matthew Modine.
De Niro admitted that he did not conduct extensive research for the role, instead relying on the expertise of the show’s creators, advisors, and technical consultants. He praised the script, saying each episode captivated him from the start.
Filming took place in New York and Washington, adding an authentic political backdrop to the tense narrative. Alongside Zero Day, De Niro is also set to star in The Whisper Man, an adaptation of Alex North’s bestselling novel, which is scheduled to begin production in the spring.
With Zero Day set to premiere on Netflix on February 20, audiences can expect a gripping exploration of cyber warfare, political intrigue, and high-stakes action led by one of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors.
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