Meet the Cast of Taxi Driver

Released on February 09, 1976
Drama Crime Big City America / United States Revenge 1970s New York City

In Martin Scorsese's iconic film "Taxi Driver," released in 1976, the protagonist is Travis Bickle, a mentally unstable Vietnam War veteran who works as a night-time taxi driver in the chaotic and gritty streets of New York City. Bickle is a complex and troubled character, played brilliantly by Robert De Niro, who is deeply affected by the decadence and sleaze that he witnesses during his nightly drives around the city. His experiences in the Vietnam War, combined with his isolation and loneliness, have left him feeling disconnected from society and prone to bouts of anger and aggression.

One of the most compelling aspects of "Taxi Driver" is the way it explores the inner workings of Bickle's mind, as he becomes increasingly fixated on the idea of cleaning up the streets and purging the city of its perceived moral decay. He becomes particularly obsessed with Iris Steensma, a 12-year-old prostitute played by Jodie Foster, and sees himself as her savior and protector. Bickle's delusional and dangerous behavior is contrasted with the more grounded and realistic characters in the film, such as Tom, played by Albert Brooks, who serves as Bickle's foil and provides a glimpse into what a normal and healthy life might look like.

Overall, "Taxi Driver" is a powerful and thought-provoking film that offers a raw and unflinching look at the darker side of human nature. Its exploration of themes such as isolation, loneliness, and the corrupting influence of power and violence make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. Whether you're a fan of Scorsese's work, or simply looking for a thought-provoking and intense film to watch, "Taxi Driver" is definitely worth checking out.

Full Cast of Taxi Driver

Robert De Niro

as Travis Bickle

Robert De Niro's portrayal of Travis Bickle in 'Taxi Driver' is a masterclass in character acting. His transformation from a lonely, socially awkward war veteran to a man driven to violence by his own internal demons is both chilling and mesmerizing. De Niro's performance is layered with subtle nuances, from his awkward interactions with others to his intense, introspective monologues. His physical transformation, including the iconic mohawk haircut, further emphasizes the character's descent into madness. De Niro's performance is a testament to his talent and versatility as an actor, and it remains one of the most memorable performances in cinematic history.

Jodie Foster

as Iris

Jodie Foster's portrayal of Iris Steensma in 'Taxi Driver' is a standout performance that showcases her incredible range and talent. At just 13 years old, Foster delivers a mature and nuanced portrayal of a young prostitute, capturing the complex emotions and vulnerability of her character with remarkable depth. Her chemistry with Robert De Niro's Travis Bickle is palpable, and their scenes together are some of the most memorable in the film. Foster's performance earned her critical acclaim and a nomination for Best Supporting Actress at the Academy Awards, cementing her status as one of the most promising young actresses of her generation.

Cybill Shepherd

as Betsy

Cybill Shepherd delivers a captivating performance as Betsy in Martin Scorsese's iconic film, "Taxi Driver." As the object of Travis Bickle's (Robert De Niro) obsession, Shepherd's portrayal of Betsy is both alluring and enigmatic. Her character's cool demeanor and aloofness add to the complexity of the narrative, as Betsy's rejection of Travis's advances serves as a catalyst for his downward spiral. Shepherd's performance is nuanced and understated, making Betsy a compelling and memorable character in this cinematic masterpiece.

Harvey Keitel

as Sport

Harvey Keitel's portrayal of Matthew "Sport" Higgins in 'Taxi Driver' is a chilling display of his versatile acting skills. As the sleazy, manipulative pimp, Keitel brings a sense of raw, unsettling realism to the role. His performance is marked by a charismatic intensity that makes Sport both captivating and repulsive, leaving a lasting impression on viewers. Keitel's ability to embody this complex character with such conviction adds a crucial layer to the film's exploration of urban isolation and moral decay.

Peter Boyle

as Wizard

Peter Boyle's portrayal of Wizard in the movie 'Taxi Driver' is a masterclass in subtlety and nuance. His character, a seasoned cab driver, serves as a mentor to Travis Bickle, played by Robert De Niro. Boyle brings a sense of world-weary wisdom to the role, his face etched with the lines of a hard life. His performance is understated yet powerful, providing a stark contrast to De Niro's intense and unpredictable Bickle. Despite his limited screen time, Boyle leaves a lasting impression, his character's quiet strength and resilience resonating long after the credits roll.