Model and actress Toukie Smith, who shared twin children with Oscar-winning actor Robert De Niro, has died at the age of 74. Her children, Airyn and Julian, confirmed that she passed away on November 4 at a New York hospital, following what they described as a long and courageous battle with multiple sclerosis. They remembered their mother as a force of nature who left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

Born Doris Smith in Philadelphia on September 25, 1952, she became known as Toukie, a nickname given to her by her grandmother. After graduating from New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology in 1972, she built a successful modeling career, working with legendary designers including Hubert de Givenchy, Thierry Mugler and Issey Miyake. In 1978, she was named Bloomingdale’s Model of the Year, establishing herself as a familiar face in the fashion world.

Smith later moved into acting, appearing in television shows such as Miami Vice before becoming widely recognised for playing Eva Rawley in the NBC sitcom 227 in 1989. Her film credits included Talkin’ Dirty After Dark, I Like It Like That and The Preacher’s Wife. Beyond her professional achievements, she was also known for her relationship with Robert De Niro, whom she dated from 1988 to 1996. The couple welcomed twins Airyn and Julian in October 1995 through a surrogate.

Although they kept much of their private life away from the spotlight, Smith once explained why privacy mattered to her, saying, “What’s great about a private life is it’s private.” De Niro had not publicly commented on her passing at the time of the report. Our heartfelt condolences go out to her children, family and loved ones. May she rest in peace. 🕯️