Toukie Smith, the model and actress who shared two children with Robert De Niro, has died aged 74.
Her twins, Airyn and Julian De Niro, confirmed that their mother died on November 4 in a New York hospital following a "long, courageous battle" with multiple sclerosis.
The announcement, reported by The Hollywood Reporter, remembered a woman whose career spanned international fashion, television and film.
"Toukie was a force of nature," her children said, paying tribute to the lasting impression she made on those who knew her.
Toukie Smith's children remember their mother
Airyn and Julian, 31, honoured both their mother's personal warmth and her contribution to fashion.
Their statement recognised the part she played in creating opportunities for later generations of Black models and designers, alongside the creative legacy of her family.
Airyn also shared a personal tribute on Instagram, posting a photograph of herself with her mother.
The simple message offered a glimpse of the family's grief, away from the public achievements for which Toukie was best known.
Toukie Smith's relationship with Robert De Niro
Toukie and Robert began their relationship in 1988 and welcomed Airyn and Jul...