Robert De Niro Mourns the Tragic Loss of His Grandson, Leandro De Niro Rodriguez
Renowned actor Robert De Niro is grieving the devastating loss of his beloved grandson, Leandro De Niro Rodriguez. The heartbreaking news was revealed by De Niro's daughter, Drena De Niro, in a poignant Instagram post on Sunday evening. The family referred to the young man affectionately as "Leo."
Expressing profound sadness, De Niro issued a statement to ET on Monday, conveying his deep distress over the passing of his grandson. Through his representative, the Raging Bull star said, "I'm deeply distressed by the passing of my beloved grandson Leo. We're greatly appreciative of the condolences from everyone. We ask that we please be given privacy to grieve our loss of Leo."
Drena, 51, shared a heartfelt tribute to her late son in an emotional Instagram post. Leandro, reportedly 19 years old at the time of his passing, held a special place in his mother's heart. Drena's tribute expressed her profound love for her son and her struggle to imagine life without him. She vowed to carry on and spread the love and light that Leo brought into her life.
Speaking to ET, Drena requested privacy during this time of inconsolable grief, thanking everyone for the outpouring of love and support. No further details about Leandro's death were shared by Drena. Leandro's father, artist Carlos Mare, also addressed the loss on his Instagram by posting a simple black square and leaving a heartfelt comment expressing his sorrow.
The devastating news prompted condolences from friends and colleagues of the De Niro family. Musician Lenny Kravitz reached out, offering his deepest condolences to Drena and the family. Supermodel Naomi Campbell expressed her heartbreak for Drena, emphasizing her availability and support. Television host Andy Cohen also shared his sadness and sent his love to Drena during this difficult time.
Drena and Leandro previously appeared together in the 2018 film A Star Is Born, directed by Bradley Cooper. Drena portrayed Paulette Stone, wife of Dave Chappelle's character, while Leandro played their son, Leo Stone. The mother-son duo also shared acting credits in the films The Collection (2005) and Cabaret Maxime (2018).
The tragic loss of Leandro comes approximately three months after Robert De Niro, 79, welcomed his seventh child, Gia Virginia Chen-De Niro, with his girlfriend, Tiffany Chen. De Niro has adult children, Drena and Raphael, from his previous marriage to Diahnne Abbott. Additionally, he has twin sons, Aaron and Julian, with former girlfriend Toukie Smith, and a son, Elliot, and daughter, Helen, with ex-wife Grace Hightower.
As the De Niro family navigates this devastating loss, they find solace in the outpouring of love and support from friends, colleagues, and fans. They ask for privacy during this time of mourning and reflection. Leandro De Niro Rodriguez will be remembered fondly by those who knew and loved him, his spirit shining bright in their hearts.
