Many people are curious about Robert De Niro’s previous relationships as word spreads that he has welcomed his seventh child with girlfriend Tiffany Chen.
Toukie Smith, an actress and model who was in a long-term relationship with De Niro in the 1980s, is one notable ex-girlfriend.
Toukie Smith was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on April 25, 1955. She began her career as a fashion model, appearing in Vogue and Essence magazines. She later became an actress, appearing in films such as The Preacher’s Wife and Talkin’ Dirty After Dark, as well as television shows such as 227 and The Equaliser.
Smith and De Niro allegedly met in 1988 at the New York City nightclub Danceteria. Smith was a rising star in the entertainment industry at the time, having recently divorced her husband, Robert Ector. De Niro had just divorced his first wife, Diahnne Abbott, and was fresh off the success of The Untouchables.
The couple quickly established themselves as fixtures on the New York City social scene, frequently attending events and parties together. They also appeared in public together in 1988, at the premiere of De Niro’s film Midnight Run.
Smith and De Niro were in a relationship for over a decade, but they never married. Julian and Aaron, their twin sons born via surrogate in 1995, were their only children.
Smith and De Niro split up despite their long-term relationship and the birth of their children. The exact reason for their breakup is unknown, but sources at the time cited personality and lifestyle differences.
Smith is no longer acting and has largely faded from public view. She is said to live in New York City and is involved in various philanthropic endeavours. Meanwhile, De Niro has moved on with his life, adding new children to his family and continuing his successful acting career.
