In a recent interview with AARP The Magazine, iconic actor Robert De Niro opened up about the joy he experiences as a father at the age of 80. Welcoming his daughter Gia last year with girlfriend Tiffany Chen, the 'Goodfellas' star expressed his deep emotional connection with his 9-month-old child.
De Niro revealed that when he looks at his daughter, everything else in his life fades away. He described the experience as wondrous and expressed how consumed he becomes by her presence. Despite his age, the renowned actor remains focused on the present rather than worrying about the future.
As De Niro spoke about Gia's growth, tears filled his eyes. He openly admitted uncertainty about what lies ahead when she becomes older. However, he couldn't help but express his admiration for her sweet way of looking at him and the thoughtful observations she makes.
De Niro and Chen's journey into parenthood began when Gia was born on April 6, 2023. However, the actor didn't announce her arrival until about a month later when he corrected a reporter who inquired about his six children and stated, 'Seven, actually.'
The couple first crossed paths in 2015 on the set of the film 'The Intern.' Their relationship blossomed, and they were seen together on a trip to Spain the following year. The martial arts instructor and De Niro were also photographed celebrating his 78th birthday in France a few years later.
Interestingly, as of June 2023, De Niro's six older children had not yet met Gia. While the arrival of his youngest daughter brought overwhelming joy to the actor's life, he also endured heartbreak in the same year. De Niro's grandson, Leandro, tragically passed away at the age of 19.
Expressing his deep distress, De Niro released a statement through his representative to Page Six, expressing gratitude for the condolences received and requesting privacy to grieve. The cause of his grandson's passing was later revealed to be an accidental fentanyl overdose. Leandro's mother, Drena De Niro, took to Instagram to share her anguish. She alleged that someone knowingly sold fentanyl-laced pills to her son. Her heartbreaking message was a plea for an end to the selling and buying of such dangerous substances.
Robert De Niro's journey as a father at the age of 80 serves as a reminder that parental joy knows no boundaries, even in later stages of life. Embracing the present and cherishing the sweet moments with his daughter, De Niro exemplifies the deep love and profound connection that comes with the gift of fatherhood.
