Robert De Niro's Former Partner Toukie Smith Dies At 74 Due To Multiple Sclerosis

American model and actress Toukie Smith, best known for her role in the television sitcom 227, has died at the age of 74 after a long battle with multiple sclerosis (MS). Her death was confirmed by her twin children, Airyn and Julian De Niro, whom she shared with actor Robert De Niro. 

Smith died on November 4, 2026, at a New York hospital. Her children described her as a force of nature and remembered the impact she had on their lives. While her family has confirmed that she had been battling MS, details about her diagnosis, symptoms and treatment have not been publicly disclosed. 

What Was Toukie Smith's Cause Of Death?

Toukie Smith died following a prolonged battle with multiple sclerosis, according to a statement from her children reported by The Hollywood Reporter. 

The actress passed away on November 4, 2026, at a hospital in New York. Her twin children, Airyn and Julian De Niro, confirmed the news on November 9.

Beloved actress and trailblazing model best remembered as Eva Rawley on 227 and Miami Vice, Toukie Smith has passed away at 74 🕊️ Smith built a remarkable career that crossed fashion, television and film. Beginning as a model in the 1970s, she walked and posed for some of the biggest names in fashion before making the leap into acting and bringing that same unmistakable presence to the screen. Some of her most memorable roles, films and career highlights: • Eva Rawley — 227 • Angie — Miami Vice • The Preacher’s Wife • Joe’s Apartment • I Like It Like That • Talkin’ Dirty After Dark • Goosed • Chanel — Model • Versace — Model • Bloomingdale’s Model of the Year — 1978 Smith also appeared in major magazines including Vogue, ELLE, Ebony and Cosmopolitan, becoming part of a generation of Black models who expanded what beauty and glamour looked like in American fashion. Then 227 introduced her charisma to an entirely different audience. Toukie Smith didn’t belong to just one world. She brought style to the runway, personality to television and a presence that was completely her own. Rest in peace, Toukie Smith

— Onii Chan (@oniichanph) November 9, 2026

In their statement, they described their mother as a strong and remarkable person who left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

It is therefore important not to assume that a specific MS complication caused her death.

What Is Multiple Sclerosis (MS) That Toukie Smith Suffered From?

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord.

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), MS is an immune-mediated disease in which the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerve fibres, known as myelin.

This covering helps electrical signals travel efficiently between the brain and the rest of the body. When myelin gets damaged, communication between nerve cells can become disrupted.

Over time, the disease can also damage the underlying nerve fibres.

MS affects people differently. Some experience mild symptoms, while others develop significant difficulties with movement, coordination and everyday activities.

There is currently no cure for multiple sclerosis. However, treatments can help manage symptoms, reduce relapses and slow disease progression in some people.

Who Were Toukie Smith's Children With Robert De Niro?

Toukie Smith and actor Robert De Niro were in a relationship between 1988 and 1996. Although they never married, they welcomed twin children, Julian and Airyn De Niro, in 1995 through surrogacy.

The couple largely kept their family life away from public attention. Their children confirmed their mother's death and shared an emotional tribute following the news.

Airyn also remembered her mother through a social media post, expressing her love for her. The twins described Smith as someone who left a lasting impression on their lives and the people around her.

Toukie Smith's Career: From Modelling To 227

Beyond her relationship with Robert De Niro, Toukie Smith built a career in modelling and acting.

Born Doris A. Smith in Philadelphia in 1952, she began modelling in 1972. She worked with several major fashion designers, including Thierry Mugler, Givenchy and Issey Miyake. Bloomingdale's also named her Model of the Year in 1978.Toukie Smith death cause

She later moved into acting and appeared in television shows and films.

• Her notable screen appearances included:
• Miami Vice
• 227
• Talkin' Dirty After Dark
• I Like It Like That
• Joe's Apartment
• The Preacher's Wife

Her role as Eva Rawley in the NBC sitcom 227 remains one of her best-known acting performances. Smith also explored the food business and operated a catering venture and a restaurant in New York. Her career across fashion, television and business made her a recognised figure beyond her association with De Niro.

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Conclusion

While her family has confirmed her prolonged battle with multiple sclerosis, they have not disclosed further details about her medical journey. Her performances in 227 and Miami Vice, along with her modelling career, remain part of her professional legacy.