Veteran actor Robert De Niro, 79, has released a statement expressing deep distress following the tragic death of his beloved grandson, Leandro De Niro-Rodriguez. In the statement provided to PEOPLE on Monday, the renowned actor requested privacy for his family during this time of grief.
In a statement given to PEOPLE, De Niro,79, said, “I’m deeply distressed by the passing of my beloved grandson Leo.”
“We’re greatly appreciative of the condolences from everyone. We ask that we please be given privacy to grieve our loss of Leo,” he added of the teen.
Leandro, aged 19, was the son of Drena De Niro, Robert’s daughter. Drena, an actress, also released a heartfelt statement, confirming her son’s passing on Instagram. Accompanied by a touching photo of Leandro, she began her emotional post by expressing her unconditional love for her son since the moment she felt him in her belly.
Drena’s tribute highlighted the profound impact Leandro had on her life, describing him as her joy, heart, and everything pure and real. She expressed her deep sorrow and the difficulty of living without him, acknowledging the immense love she had for him but recognizing that love alone could not have saved him.
The details surrounding Leandro’s death were not disclosed by Drena, but a spokesperson for the NYPD’s Deputy Commissioner of Public Information confirmed that an 18-year-old male was found unresponsive and pronounced deceased by emergency medical services. The police received a 911 call at approximately 2:23 p.m. on Sunday.
Following Drena’s heartbreaking announcement, friends and loved ones expressed their condolences and support. Television personality Andy Cohen offered his love, while actress Rosie Perez expressed shock and assured Drena of her presence and care. Supermodel Naomi Campbell also reached out, sharing her condolences and offering solace during this time of profound loss.
Drena De Niro is the eldest among Robert De Niro’s seven children. Her mother is Robert’s first wife, actress Diahnne Abbott. In May, Robert confirmed that he recently became a father for the seventh time, as his girlfriend Tiffany Chen gave birth to a baby girl named Gia.
The tragic loss of Leandro De Niro-Rodriguez has sent shockwaves through the family and their close circle. As they navigate this inconsolable grief, the family has asked for privacy and space to process their emotions.
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