Robert De Niro’s Former Partner Passes Away At 74 — Her Twins Finally Reveal The Hidden Health Battle She Kept Secret

Toukie Smith: Remembering the Life, Career, and Private Battle of the Beloved 227 Star
For decades, she hid a painful personal struggle behind an unforgettable, radiant smile. When beloved 227 actress and pioneering model Toukie Smith passed away at 74, admirers across the country were stunned. Best known to many for her eight-year relationship with Oscar winner Robert De Niro, she had quietly stepped back from the Hollywood spotlight in recent years.

But behind the headlines about her famous relationship was a remarkable woman whose influence extended far beyond her connection to Hollywood.

Smith, born Doris A. Smith on September 25, 1952, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, first made her mark in the fashion industry. She began modeling in 1972 and quickly became one of the recognizable faces of the fashion world. Her striking appearance and natural confidence helped her work with celebrated designers, including Givenchy, Thierry Mugler, Issey Miyake, and Chanel. In 1978, Bloomingdale’s named her its Model of the Year.

Her transition into acting introduced her to an entirely new audience. She appeared in Miami Vice before landing the role of Eva Rawley on the popular NBC sitcom 227 in 1989. Her performance brought warmth and personality to the series, earning her a special place in the memories of television viewers.

Smith also appeared in films such as Talkin’ Dirty After Dark, I Like It Like That, Joe’s Apartment, and The Preacher’s Wife. Beyond entertainment, she explored her passion for food, opening her own restaurant in New York City during the 1990s.

Her personal life also attracted considerable public attention. Smith began dating Robert De Niro in 1988, and the couple welcomed twin children, Airyn and Julian, in 1995 through a surrogate. Although their relationship ended in 1996, they continued sharing the important responsibility of raising their children.

However, one of the most difficult chapters of her life unfolded away from the cameras. According to her children’s announcement, Smith endured a long and courageous battle with multiple sclerosis, a neurological condition that affects communication between the brain and the rest of the body. She passed away on November 4, 2026, at a New York hospital.

Following her death, her children shared an emotional tribute, describing their mother as a force of nature whose presence left an unforgettable mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

They also remembered her contribution to fashion and culture, emphasizing how her beauty, grace, and unmistakable presence helped pave the way for generations of Black models and designers.

Today, Toukie Smith is being remembered for much more than her relationship with a Hollywood superstar. She was a successful model, talented actress, businesswoman, devoted mother, and a woman who built her own identity in an industry that was constantly changing.

Her journey reminds us that behind every familiar face is a personal story the public may never fully see. Although her battle with illness was largely private, her professional achievements and the memories she created will continue to live on.

Rest in peace, Toukie Smith. Your legacy will never be forgotten.