Los Angeles, Nov 8 (IANS): Hollywood actor Robert De Niro says "Titanic" star Leonardo DiCaprio has replaced him in director Martin Scorsese's films.

De Niro, 70, who will soon be seen in upcoming comedy "Last Vegas" alongside Michael Douglas, Morgan Freeman and Kevin Kline, has praised DiCaprio, 38, for his serious acting skills.

DiCaprio has featured in Scorsese's movies like "Gangs of New York", "The Aviator" and "The Departed".

"Leonardo DiCaprio is a very serious young actor, he takes it quite seriously. I knew he had something when I saw him read. So even though Leonardo DiCaprio has taken my place in Marty's (Martin Scorsese) movies, I'm apparently the go-to guy in handing out the hardware," De Niro said in a statement.

The veteran actor, who has been in the industry for over four decades, pointed out one change he has witnessed over time.

"I've gotten pretty good at giving out awards, but frankly I've gotten out of practice accepting an award myself," he said.

"Last Vegas" releases in India Nov 22.