3. Robert De Niro

Unfortunately, De Niro’s recent cinematic output has been less than stellar (probably just for the paycheck and the chance to do something different and fun). However, nothing can be taken away from an actor that has risen to the top of the icon pile with his intense and compelling characters and breathtaking performances that still resonate with movie lovers today.

Although he rightfully garnered widespread acclaim for his turn as the young, measured yet menacing Vito Corleone, the consummate thief in Heat or Al Capone in The Untouchables, his nine collaborations with director Martin Scorsese are arguably some of his best work. The creative partnership he had with Scorsese ushered in a new wave of crime dramas and gangster movies, inspiring countless youngsters who saw him on the screen to want to choose acting as a career.