Leandro De Niro Rodriguez, the beloved grandson of renowned Hollywood actor Robert De Niro, tragically passed away, as shared by his mother, Drena De Niro, a 51-year-old actress, through a heartfelt Instagram post.
The grieving mother expressed her immeasurable love for her son, stating, “My exquisite and tender angel, my affection for you transcended words or explanation from the very moment I sensed your presence in my womb. You have been the source of my happiness, the beating of my heart, and the embodiment of everything that was pure and genuine in my life. I yearn to be by your side at this very moment, my darling. I wish I could be with you.”
Unable to fathom life without him, Drena De Niro courageously pledged to carry on, determined to radiate the love and light that her son had always made her feel as a mother. She expressed, “I am uncertain of how to exist without you, but I will make an effort to persevere and share the love and brilliance that you bestowed upon me during the time I was blessed to be your mother. You were cherished and treasured beyond measure, and I wish that love alone could have saved you. I am deeply sorry, my precious baby. Rest in Peace and eternal paradise, my darling boy.”
Heartfelt condolences poured in from loved ones as they responded to Drena’s poignant announcement. Lana Parilla, an actress, extended her sympathies, saying, “Drena, my heart aches for you. I am sending an abundance of love, prayers, and strength your way. May God be with you and everyone who adored your darling boy.”
Producer Lee Daniels offered his support, expressing, “Drena, may GOD embrace you in his comforting arms.” Rosie Perez, in shock, conveyed her deep sorrow, exclaiming, “This is devastating! I am profoundly sorry! We are all here for you! I love you more than words can express!”
Leandro’s father, the talented artist Carlos Mare, shared a solemn tribute on his Instagram page, posting an image veiled in darkness, though he has yet to make any public statements.
Leandro, like his mother and grandfather before him, pursued acting as a career. In 2018, he appeared alongside Drena in the film A Star is Born, portraying the character of George “Noodles” Stone’s son, played by Dave Chapelle. His acting repertoire also included notable roles in The Collection (2005) and Cabaret Maxime (2018).
On Mother’s Day, Drena commemorated the occasion with a series of photographs capturing cherished moments with Leandro. She accompanied the posts with a heartfelt caption, reflecting, “A glimpse of Leo, a touch of Mare, and an abundance of sunshine and CleoPipa. Memories of my soulmate, our furry companion Daisy, flood my thoughts. Today was a day filled with happiness.”
Drena, the eldest among Robert De Niro’s seven children, is the daughter of Diahnne Abbott, De Niro’s first wife. In May, De Niro celebrated the birth of his first child with girlfriend Tiffany Chen. The newborn is their first child together and De Niro’s seventh offspring.
