Robert De Niro, a towering figure in cinematic history, has captivated audiences for decades with his intense portrayals and undeniable charisma. Beyond the silver screen, his personal life, particularly his romantic relationships, has also drawn considerable attention. If you want to know more about his dating history, keep reading this article!
A Love Story Begins: De Niro and Diahnne Abbott
De Niro’s first marriage was to Diahnne Abbott, an actress he wed in 1976. This union lasted over a decade, ending in divorce in 1988. During their time together, they welcomed a son and named him Raphael. Along with that, De Niro adopted Abbott’s daughter from a previous relationship, Drena.
Their partnership extended beyond their personal lives, with Abbott appearing in several of De Niro’s films, including “Taxi Driver” and “The King of Comedy.” This period marked a significant chapter in De Niro’s life, intertwining his burgeoning career with his family life.
Unconventional Bonds: Toukie Smith and Surrogacy
Following his divorce from Abbott, De Niro embarked on a relationship with Toukie Smith, a model and actress. Though they never married, their connection spanned several years, from the late 1980s into the early 1990s.
Together, they had twin sons, Julian and Aaron, born via surrogacy in 1995, after their separation. This relationship highlighted De Niro’s capacity for deep connection outside the traditional bounds of marriage.
Another Marriage?
In 1997, Robert De Niro married his second wife, Grace Hightower, a former flight attendant and philanthropist. Their relationship was marked by both deep affection and periods of separation. They welcomed a son, Elliot, in 1998, and later a daughter, Helen Grace, born via surrogacy in 2011.
Despite filing for divorce in 1999, the couple reconciled, only to eventually divorce in 2018. Hightower remained a significant presence in De Niro’s life for over two decades, and their on-again, off-again dynamic kept them in the public eye.
A New Chapter: Tiffany Chen and a Growing Family
Robert De Niro’s personal life took a new turn with his relationship with Tiffany Chen, a martial arts instructor. Their paths crossed in 2015 on the set of the film “The Intern,” where Chen played a Tai Chi instructor who guided De Niro’s character. However, their connection was platonic for several years.
De Niro and Chen’s romance did not begin until 2021. They were pictured enjoying a holiday in the south of France, holding hands and kissing on a friend’s yacht. This public outing established their romantic relationship.
Following their initial romantic retreat, Chen was seen supporting De Niro while he worked on his film “Wise Guys.” Sources close to the production observed her appearance on set and described De Niro as “excited to have her around.”
In May 2023, De Niro shocked the public by announcing the birth of his seventh child. His “About My Father” co-star, Kim Cattrall, confirmed Tiffany Chen as the baby’s mother. De Niro confirmed the news shortly afterwards, revealing that their daughter, Gia Virginia Chen De Niro, was born in April.
While they have been seen together since welcoming their child, De Niro and Chen have yet to publicly comment on the specific status of their relationship. Their connection, however, marks a significant new chapter in the life of the acclaimed actor.
Conclusion
Robert De Niro’s romantic life, much like his storied career, has been marked by significant and enduring relationships. His first marriage to Diahnne Abbott brought shared family and professional experiences, while his connection with Toukie Smith showcased a bond outside traditional marriage, resulting in twin sons.
More recently, his connection with Tiffany Chen has blossomed into a loving partnership, bringing the joy of a new child. These connections have shaped his life, resulting in a large and cherished family. From his early marriage to his current partnership, De Niro’s personal journey reflects a capacity for lasting commitment and the profound impact of love and family alongside his iconic status in the world of cinema.