Robert De Niro, 81, has revealed that there’s one aspect of parenting he doesn’t take on—changing diapers.
In a recent interview with The Sunday Times, the Oscar-winning actor shared insights into his life with his one-year-old daughter, Gia, whom he has with girlfriend Tiffany Chen. While De Niro is involved in parenting, he admitted he does not handle the diaper-changing duties.
“No, no, but I used to,” said De Niro, known for roles in Taxi Driver and Goodfellas.
However, De Niro emphasized that he contributes in other ways. An early riser, he spends his mornings bonding with Gia by watching toddler-friendly YouTube videos, including ones by Ms. Rachel, and giving her her bottle.
De Niro is also the father of six other children from previous relationships. He has a 57-year-old daughter, Drena, and a 48-year-old son, Raphael, from his marriage to Diahnne Abbott. The actor also shares twins Julian and Aaron, both 29, with ex-girlfriend Toukie Smith. With ex-wife Grace Hightower, he has a 26-year-old son, Elliot, and a 12-year-old daughter, Helen Grace.
When asked how his children would describe him as a father, De Niro acknowledged that each child would likely have a different perspective.
“Oh God, they would all have a different answer. Family is so complex,” he said, adding that he hopes his children know he did his best. “I try my best, that’s all. I hope they’ll be happy.”
This isn’t the first time De Niro has discussed Gia. In January 2024, during an interview with AARP, he expressed joy over becoming a father again at his age. “Everything that I’m consumed with or worried about just goes away when I look at her. It’s wondrous,” he said.
De Niro has also praised his girlfriend for her efforts in raising Gia. Speaking to The Guardian in October 2023, he acknowledged that while fatherhood doesn’t get easier, he supports Chen and appreciates the help they have. “I don’t do the heavy lifting. I’m there, I support my girlfriend. But she does the work. And we have help, which is so important.”
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