robert de niro
taniavolobueva/Shutterstock.com

Robert De Niro’s grandson, Leandro De Niro Rodriguez, tragically passed away at 19 years old. In a statement, the iconic actor 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.”

De Niro’s eldest daughter Drena De Niro, also expressed her grief in a statement, saying, “It is with immeasurable shock and sadness that we say goodbye to our beloved son Leo. We thank you for the outpouring of love and support and ask that we are given privacy at this time to process this inconsolable grief.” She added, “You were so deeply loved and appreciated, and I wish that love alone could have saved you.” Drena shared Leo with artist Carlos Mare.

New York City police told The Associated Press that “an 18-year-old male was found unconscious, unresponsive and was pronounced deceased by EMS on the scene” at a Wall Street address that houses the Cipriani Club Residences. According to reports, Leo had only recently turned 19. The medical examiner’s office has yet to determine a cause of death.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Drena (@drenadeniro)

De Niro adopted Drena when he was married to her mother and his ex-wife Diahnne Abbott from 1976 to 1988. He has seven children after recently welcoming daughter Gia with his girlfriend, Tiffany Chen. Drena is a filmmaker and actress who starred alongside her son in three films, including “A Star is Born.”

Several celebrities shared their condolences for the devastated mother in the comments of her Instagram post. Supermodel Naomi Campbell wrote, “Drena heartbroken for you, such a Duo, I can’t imagine how you must feel, May the lord cover you and hold you in his arms, at this very sad time and loss. I love you, always here for you.”

Film producer Lee Daniels commented, “Drena may GOD keep you in his arms,” while Lenny Kravitz wrote, “Dearest Drena, sending my deepest condolences to you and the family. This is all beyond words at the moment. I love you.”

More from Beliefnet and our partners
Close Ad