Robert De Niro changes tune on Trump, by Judy Kurtz.

Robert De Niro is striking a more diplomatic tone regarding President-elect Donald Trump, whom he previously said he’d like to “punch … in the face.”

“I would only say that we’re all hoping, waiting and hoping, that he will lead the country in a way that’ll benefit everyone and benefit our neighbors around the world,” De Niro told ITK on Tuesday when asked what message he’d want to share with Trump. …

De Niro has previously called Trump “blatantly stupid,” a “pig” and a “bullshit artist.” He said Tuesday his “punch” comment – made in a video released last month – was “more symbolic.”