Robert De Niro, known for his numerous fatherly roles in movies, also embraces fatherhood in his personal life. At 79, he welcomed a new child just a year ago, adding to his extensive experience as a father. Recently, De Niro shared insights into his journey through parenthood, reflecting on both its joys and challenges.
Reflecting on his youngest daughter Gia’s first birthday, De Niro expressed the profound happiness she brings into his life. In an interview with producer Jane Rosenthal, he spoke warmly about the joy Gia has brought him, emphasizing how she brings everything else into perspective.
“I’m an 80-year-old dad, and it’s great,” De Niro shared. “Everything that I’m consumed with or worried about just goes away when I look at her.”
Confirming Gia’s first birthday celebration, De Niro mentioned, “Yes, she did. She had a little cake, it was very nice, sweet.” Describing his daughter, he added, “Well, she’s pure joy. There’s nothing about her, there’s no judgment, there’s no anything, she just is what she is, and it’s just pure joy for God’s sake.”
Despite approaching 81 in the summer of 2024, De Niro remains active and committed to his roles. When asked about retirement and golf, he humorously dismissed the idea, admitting he prefers acting over golfing, stating, “I’m not good at golf.”
In May 2023, De Niro and his girlfriend Tiffany Chen welcomed Gia, marking his seventh child. His large family includes adult children Drena, 56, and Raphael, 47, with ex-wife Diahnne Abbott; twin sons Aaron and Julian, 28, with former girlfriend Toukie Smith; and Elliot, 26, and Helen, 12, with ex-wife Grace Hightower.
Reflecting on parenting, De Niro acknowledged the challenges, noting that it doesn’t necessarily get easier with experience but praising his partner for making it manageable. He emphasized their teamwork, stating, “I’m there, I support my girlfriend. But she does the work. And we have help, which is so important.”
As he navigates fatherhood at an older age, De Niro continues to find fulfillment in his expanding family, appreciating the surprises and joys that each child brings into his life.