In a recent intimate interview with The Guardian, iconic actor Robert De Niro delves into the complexities of parenting an infant daughter at the age of 80.
“It is what it is. It’s OK. I mean, I don’t do the heavy lifting,” De Niro candidly admitted, attributing the bulk of the child-rearing efforts to his girlfriend, Tiffany Chen.
“I’m there, I support my girlfriend. But she does the work. And we have help, which is so important,” he said.
Chen, a martial arts instructor and kickboxer, spoke in a separate interview with Gayle King on “CBS Mornings” about her recent health struggles. She revealed her diagnosis of Bell’s palsy, which resulted in a sudden loss of facial function.
She detailed how eating became an ordeal, describing that “everything came out” when she tried to eat. “I lost all facial function the minute I got into the hospital,” Chen stated, casting a light on the silent difficulties that can accompany new motherhood.
De Niro and Chen first met during the filming of the 2015 movie “The Intern,” although at the time, De Niro was married to his second wife, Grace Hightower. Their relationship has since evolved, culminating in the birth of their daughter, Gia, in April.
The actor, who has been a prominent figure in Hollywood for decades, is no stranger to the responsibilities and challenges of fatherhood. He has six other children—Drena, 52, and Raphael, 46, with his first wife Diahnne Abbott; twin sons Julian and Aaron, 27, with ex Toukie Smith; and Elliot, 24, and Helen Grace, 11, with Hightower.
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In discussing his approach to parenting, De Niro indicated that his style varies significantly depending on the age and needs of each child.
“With a baby it’s different to my 11-year-old. My adult children. My grandchildren. It’s all different,” he said, acknowledging the dynamic nature of parenthood and its capacity to “surprise you.”
Tragedy has also recently touched De Niro’s family. His grandson Leandro passed away this past summer from an accidental overdose, highlighting the profound and often unpredictable challenges that can affect families, irrespective of their fame or fortune.
De Niro’s revelation comes at a time when older parenthood is an increasing trend, especially among men. His candid remarks may offer solace to others navigating the intricate maze of late-life fatherhood, revealing both its limitations and its precious moments.
While De Niro admits to not doing “the heavy lifting,” his presence and support for his family are clearly integral parts of his life.
Still, it begs the question how responsible is it for a man to become the father of a newborn at the age of 80?