As the news rippled through the grapevine about Robert De Niro embracing fatherhood for the seventh time with girlfriend Tiffany Chen, it’s only natural for folks to get a tad curious about his romantic history.
One intriguing figure from his past is none other than Toukie Smith, an actress and model who shared a significant chapter of her life with De Niro back in the 1980s.
Who is Toukie Smith?
Toukie Smith, born on April 25, 1955, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, embarked on her journey in the world of fashion modeling. She graced the glossy pages of renowned magazines like Vogue and Essence with her striking presence.
But her ambition didn’t stop there—she transitioned into acting, making her mark in films like The Preacher’s Wife and Talkin’ Dirty After Dark, as well as TV shows including 227 and The Equalizer.
It was in the vibrant city of New York that Toukie Smith’s path crossed with Robert De Niro’s. Their meeting took place in 1988, within the walls of the famous nightclub Danceteria. Smith, already on the rise in the entertainment universe, had recently parted ways with her spouse, Robert Ector.
De Niro, fresh from the success of The Untouchables, was in the midst of finalizing his divorce from his first wife, Diahnne Abbott.
The chemistry between the two ignited swiftly, and they swiftly became a prominent duo in New York’s social scene. Their presence was a common sight at various events and soirées around the city. As evidence of their bond, they made a public appearance together during the premiere of De Niro’s film Midnight Run in 1988.
A Decade Together
Toukie Smith and De Niro’s journey spanned over a decade, a time brimming with shared experiences and memories. However, it’s noteworthy that their love story never took the formal route of marriage. Despite that, their partnership blossomed into parenthood when they welcomed twin sons, Julian and Aaron, in 1995. The unique aspect here was that these little bundles of joy arrived via a surrogate.
Life often has its twists and turns, and Smith and De Niro’s journey eventually led them in separate directions. The exact reasons behind their parting remain shrouded in mystery, though insiders from that era often pointed to disparities in their personalities and lifestyles.
Following their split, Toukie Smith gracefully faded from the limelight of acting, shifting her focus to quieter endeavors. Reports suggest she now resides in New York City, channeling her energies into diverse philanthropic pursuits.
Meanwhile, Robert De Niro continued his life’s journey. His career as an accomplished actor marched onward, and his personal life found new avenues. With his recent addition of a seventh child with Tiffany Chen, his love story continues to unfold.
