Native New Yorkers Al Pacino and Robert De Niro independently gained praise as being among the most talented actors of their time. However, the similarities in their styles, roles, and tough guy appearances have connected them in the public imagination. Their careers often overlapped and intertwined, as the men shared acting mentors, went up for the same parts, and have been frequent co-stars in major films. Though the two have maintained an affectionate friendship and deep mutual respect, their apparent similarities have have created a Hollywood rivalry between the two masters of their craft.