Robert De Niro Is 'Deeply Distressed' By The Loss Of His Grandson Leandro

Hollywood icon Robert De Niro is grieving the loss of his 19-year-old grandson, Leandro, whose sudden death has left the acclaimed actor "deeply distressed."

While the exact circumstances surrounding his death have not been publicly disclosed, his mother, Drena De Niro, had already taken to Instagram to mourn his passing as fans shared their condolences.

Read on for more details.

Leandro De Niro Rodriguez, the son of Robert De Niro's daughter, Drena De Niro, and her former partner Carlos Rodriguez, tragically passed away on July 2, 2023.

In a heartfelt statement to People magazine, the legendary actor, 79, expressed his grief and paid tribute to his beloved grandson. He 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."

Leandro, known to his loved ones as Leo, has been described as a vibrant and talented individual. Despite his young age, he had already shown great promise and had been pursuing his passions with determination. He has starred in several movies, including "A Star is Born," 2018's "Cabaret Maxime," and 2005's "The Collection."

Drena De Niro also spoke to People to express her heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming outpouring of love and support she and her family has received following the tragic death of her 19-year-old son, Leandro.

Amid immense grief, Drena has found solace in the kindness and compassion shown by friends, family, and fans from around the world.

In a statement to the news outlet, the "Cabaret Maxime" actress expressed her gratitude, saying, "It is with immeasurable shock and sadness that we say goodbye to our beloved son Leo. We thank you for the outpouring of love and support and ask that we are given privacy at this time to process this inconsolable grief."

According to Insider, the 19-year-old was found dead in an iconic lower Manhattan building known for its luxurious apartments and an exclusive old-money-inspired social club.

The New York Police Department reportedly responded to an emergency call at 55 Wall Street around 2:30 p.m. on Sunday and found an 18-year-old male "unconscious and unresponsive" before he was confirmed to be Leandro, and 19 years old. He was then pronounced dead by the EMS on the scene.

Though the details surrounding his passing remain under investigation, the location of his death has drawn attention due to its status as an emblem of opulence and privilege.

The building— Cipriani Wall Street — which houses lavish apartments and an exclusive social club, "Casa Cipriani," has long been associated with the upper echelons of society. Its grandeur and historical significance make it an iconic landmark in the heart of Manhattan.

Following the young actor's death, his mother, Drena, took to Instagram to mourn Leandro's tragic loss. 

In a heartfelt message, Drena paid tribute, saying, "My beautiful sweet angel. I have loved you beyond words or description from the moment I felt you in my belly. You have been my joy, my heart, and all that was ever pure and real in my life. I wish I was with you right now. I wish I was with you."

She continued, "I don't know how to live without you, but I'll try to go on and spread the love and light that you so made me feel in getting to be your mama."

The "ExTerminators" actress concluded by saying, "You were so deeply loved and appreciated, and I wish that love alone could have saved you. I'm so sorry my baby, I'm so sorry @carlosmare. Rest in Peace and Eternal Paradise, my darling boy."

Leandro's father, Carlos Rodriguez, also responded to the heartfelt tribute shared by Drena. In his comment on her post, he stated, "My dear... Words aren't enough to express the joy he gave us or the loss we now endure with our families and friends. He is Godschild now. On this full moon, his spirit illuminates what could not be seen in the dark. You can't spell LOVE without LEO."