Robert De Niro’s Family: A Comprehensive Guide
Greetings, Readers!
Welcome to this in-depth exploration of Robert De Niro’s family. As a renowned actor and cultural icon, De Niro’s personal life has often garnered significant attention. In this article, we’ll delve into the intricate tapestry of his family relationships, exploring the lives and contributions of his parents, siblings, children, and other extended family members.
The De Niro Dynasty
James De Niro Sr. and Virginia Admiral
Robert De Niro’s parents, James De Niro Sr. and Virginia Admiral, were both artists. James Sr. was an abstract expressionist painter, while Virginia was a poet and painter. They divorced when Robert was three years old, and he spent his childhood primarily with his mother in Greenwich Village, New York City.
Robert De Niro Jr.
Born on August 17, 1943, Robert De Niro is the only child of James De Niro Sr. and Virginia Admiral. He has two older half-siblings from his father’s first marriage. De Niro is renowned for his transformative performances in films such as "The Godfather Part II," "Taxi Driver," and "Raging Bull."
Brother and Sisters
Robert De Niro has three half-siblings:
- Barbara De Niro: Born in 1928, she is Robert’s half-sister from his father’s first marriage. Barbara is an artist and lives in New York City.
- Arlene De Niro: Born in 1931, she is Robert’s half-sister from his father’s first marriage. Arlene is a writer and lives in Los Angeles.
- Raphael De Niro: Born in 1962, he is Robert’s younger half-brother from his father’s second marriage. Raphael is an actor and lives in New York City.
De Niro’s Children
Robert De Niro has six children from three different relationships:
With Diahnne Abbott
- Drena De Niro: Born in 1971, she is Robert’s eldest daughter from his relationship with Diahnne Abbott. Drena is an actress and lives in Los Angeles.
- Raphael De Niro: Born in 1976, he is Robert’s son from his relationship with Diahnne Abbott. Raphael is a real estate developer and lives in New York City.
With Toukie Smith
- Aaron Kendrick De Niro: Born in 1995, he is Robert’s son from his relationship with Toukie Smith. Aaron is an actor and lives in New York City.
With Grace Hightower
- Elliott De Niro: Born in 1998, he is Robert’s son from his marriage to Grace Hightower. Elliott is a student and lives in New York City.
- Helen Grace De Niro: Born in 2004, she is Robert’s daughter from his marriage to Grace Hightower. Helen Grace is a student and lives in New York City.
- Adrian De Niro: Born in 2011 via surrogacy, he is Robert’s youngest child from his marriage to Grace Hightower. Adrian lives in New York City.
De Niro’s Extended Family
In addition to his immediate family, Robert De Niro has a number of extended family members, including:
- Aurora De Niro: Born in 2010, she is Robert’s granddaughter from his daughter Drena.
- Jasper De Niro: Born in 2015, he is Robert’s grandson from his son Raphael.
- Rosalia De Niro: Born in 2021, she is Robert’s granddaughter from his daughter Helen Grace.
Family Tree: A Visual Representation
| Relationship | Name |
|---|---|
| Father | James De Niro Sr. |
| Mother | Virginia Admiral |
| Half-Sister | Barbara De Niro |
| Half-Sister | Arlene De Niro |
| Half-Brother | Raphael De Niro |
| Wife (1976-1988) | Diahnne Abbott |
| Daughter | Drena De Niro |
| Son | Raphael De Niro |
| Wife (1997-1999) (2002-present) | Grace Hightower |
| Son | Elliott De Niro |
| Daughter | Helen Grace De Niro |
| Son | Adrian De Niro |
| Wife (1982-1994) | Toukie Smith |
| Son | Aaron Kendrick De Niro |
| Granddaughter | Aurora De Niro |
| Grandson | Jasper De Niro |
| Granddaughter | Rosalia De Niro |
Legacy and Connections
Robert De Niro’s family has played a significant role in shaping the actor’s life and career. The influence of his parents’ artistic talents, the support of his siblings, and the love of his children have all contributed to his success.
Beyond his immediate family, De Niro has also formed close connections with other actors and filmmakers. He is known for his long-standing friendship and collaborations with Martin Scorsese, Al Pacino, and Meryl Streep.
Conclusion
Robert De Niro’s family is a testament to the strength of love and bonds that can span generations. From his humble beginnings to his unparalleled success, his family has been a constant source of support, inspiration, and joy.
Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this article, be sure to check out our other pieces on Robert De Niro, including "The Method Behind the Madness: Robert De Niro’s Acting Process" and "De Niro’s Delights: A Culinary Journey with the Hollywood Legend."
FAQ about Robert De Niro’s Family
Who are Robert De Niro’s parents?
Robert De Niro’s parents were Robert De Niro Sr. and Virginia Admiral De Niro.
How many children does Robert De Niro have?
Robert De Niro has six children: Drena De Niro (adopted with first wife Diahnne Abbott), Raphael De Niro (with second wife Grace Hightower), Julian Henry De Niro (with Hightower), Aaron Kendrick De Niro (with Hightower, via surrogate), Elliott De Niro (with Hightower, via surrogate), and Helen Grace De Niro (with Hightower).
Who is Robert De Niro’s current wife?
Robert De Niro is currently married to Grace Hightower.
Who is Robert De Niro’s longest relationship?
Robert De Niro’s longest relationship was with actress Diahnne Abbott, whom he was married to from 1976 to 1988.
Does Robert De Niro have any grandchildren?
Yes, Robert De Niro has five grandchildren: Drena De Niro’s children, Leandro De Niro Rodriguez and Ella Rose De Niro Rodriguez, and Julian Henry De Niro’s children, Drena De Niro and Raphael De Niro.
What is Robert De Niro’s ethnic background?
Robert De Niro is of Italian and Irish descent.
Are any of Robert De Niro’s children actors?
Yes, Robert De Niro’s son, Raphael De Niro, is an actor.
Does Robert De Niro have any half-siblings?
Yes, Robert De Niro has two half-siblings from his father’s second marriage.
Is Robert De Niro close to his children?
Yes, Robert De Niro is reportedly very close to his children.
What is Robert De Niro’s relationship with his ex-wife, Grace Hightower?
Robert De Niro and Grace Hightower’s relationship has been described as "tumultuous" and "on-again, off-again" over the years.
