Robert De Niro, known for his many film roles, became a father again at an advanced age. Just a year ago, at the age of 79, he welcomed another child, adding to his rich experience of fatherhood. Recently, De Niro shared his thoughts on the joys and challenges of parenting.
Recalling the first birthday of his youngest daughter Gia, the actor expressed the deep happiness she brings to his life.
In an interview with producer Jane Rosenthal, he warmly spoke about the joy the little girl brings him:
“I’m an 80-year-old father, and it’s wonderful. Everything that worries or troubles me just disappears when I look at her.”
Confirming Gia’s first birthday celebration, he said:
“Yes, that’s right. She had a little cake, and everything was very sweet and lovely.”
Describing his daughter, he added:
“She is pure joy. There’s nothing else—no judgment, nothing. She just is who she is, and it’s pure joy, for God’s sake.”
De Niro has a large family. In addition to Gia, he has adult children: 56-year-old Drena and 47-year-old Raphael from his former wife Diahnne Abbott, 28-year-old twins Aaron and Julian from ex-girlfriend Toukie Smith, 26-year-old Elliot and 12-year-old Helen from former wife Grace Hightower.
Reflecting on raising children, the actor admitted that it doesn’t get easier with experience:
“But my girlfriend makes it manageable. We work as a team. I’m here, I support my girlfriend. But she does all the work. And we have help, which is very important.”
Becoming a father in later life, De Niro continues to find joy and fulfillment in his growing family, cherishing the surprises and sincere emotions that each child brings into his life.
