The tragic death of Robert De Niro’s grandson has been the year’s most brutal blow and threatens to shatter the actor’s iceman persona. Robert De Niro has “been through a lot,” according to a source who has worked closely with him over the past two years, and we could “see the iceman crack.”
The Oscar-winning actor’s daughter, Drena De Niro, announced that her son Leandro had died this weekend. De Niro, 79, issued a brief statement addressing the news. De Niro has already experienced intense highs and lows this year, including the birth of his seventh child with partner Tiffany Chen.
Robert De Niro Is “about to crack”
As Hollywood superstar Robert De Niro mourns the loss of his grandson, he could crack over mounting pressures, reveals sources close to the actor.
“Knowing De Niro knows a guy who isn’t affected much by the ups and downs of life. His attitude is that emotions are for the screen, and in real life he goes out of his way to present an icy-calm, rock-steady demeanor,” the source told The Sun.
“He’s seen a lot and been through a lot. He doesn’t have anything to prove to anybody at this point, and he can still snap his finger and get a movie made, which is the definition of power in Hollywood but he has had an absolutely crazy 2023.”
Following his heartbreaking loss, the famed actor expressed his deep mourning and asked for privacy.
In a statement provided to PEOPLE, the 79-year-old actor expressed his deep distress over the loss, saying, “I’m deeply distressed by the passing of my beloved grandson Leo.” He also expressed gratitude for the condolences received from everyone. The grieving family is now seeking privacy during this difficult time.”
Also Read: “I’m deeply distressed”: 79-Year-Old Robert De Niro Pleads to Fans and Media After a Saddening Loss
Robert De Niro Spoke on Fatherhood
Days after announcing the birth of his seventh child, Robert De Niro has spoken on fatherhood. De Niro and his girlfriend Tiffany Chen recently welcomed a baby girl, Gia Virginia Chen-De Niro.
During an appearance on TODAY, the About My Father actor opened up about being a new dad at “this stage and age.” “It feels great,” he told co-host, Hoda Kotb, adding: “I’m very happy.”
When asked what it takes to “be a good father”, De Niro responded: “Sometimes, I don’t think people really know what being a good father is.” He then corrected himself and added: “Well, they do. You know you have your responsibility.” “Look, it’s a mystery, it’s a lot of excitement,” he said. “But it’s scary and you do your best,” he said.
As for how he’s changed since welcoming his first child, the Oscar winner said,
“I have certain awareness. When you’re older you have awareness of certain things in life, dynamics, everything, family dynamics. You can’t avoid learning certain things and how you can deal with those and manage them.“
The Meet the Fockers actor has six other children from previous relationships.
Source: Mirror
