Robert De Niro is embracing the tender moments of fatherhood as he navigates life with his youngest child, 22-month-old Gia Virginia Chen De Niro. At 81 years old, he finds himself exploring new territory, raising his seventh child with girlfriend Tiffany Chen, after welcoming Gia back in April 2023, shocking fans with the news just as he was promoting his film, About My Father, last May.
During his recent appearance on The Scott Mills Breakfast Show, De Niro shared his delightful discovery of children's programs, thanks to Gia's budding interests. “Now I watch, with my little girl, The Wiggles and Ms. Rachel,” he confessed. “I didn’t know of them until I started seeing them, and my daughter loves to watch them – but they’re great!” Such charming revelations reveal how fatherhood has reshaped his entertainment habits, swapping adult dramas for vibrant children's shows.
De Niro's parenting experience is certainly framed by his extensive family history. He is already the father of six other children: Drena, 53, Raphael, 48, Julian, 29, Aaron, 29, Elliot, 26, and Helen Grace, 13, from previous relationships. While one might assume becoming a father for the seventh time at this age could be exhausting, he sees it as keeping him on his toes.
“I’m OK with it. I’m good with it,” the actor stated to Extra, highlighting his acceptance of fatherhood's challenges. Yet, he dropped candid wisdom when discussing the nuances of his role. “It is what it is. It’s OK. I mean, I don’t do the heavy lifting. I’m there, I support my girlfriend. But she does the work. And we have help, which is so important,” he explained during his interview with The Guardian. This admission showcases De Niro’s awareness of the partnership required to manage the demands of parenting.
Reflecting on his feelings toward Gia, De Niro was all smiles during an interview with AARP, where he remarked, “Everything I’m consumed with or worried about just goes away when I look at her. It’s wondrous.” This heartfelt sentiment captures the essence of unconditional love, highlighting how Gia has brought new meaning and joy to his life.
When he spoke to People, the doting dad gushed, “So sweet... [When I] look at her, everything else goes away. So it’s a great joy and relief to just be with her in the moment.” The actor’s adoration for his daughter is palpable, and it’s clear how she enriches both his daily routine and emotional well-being.
Beyond his immediate bonding with Gia, De Niro is excited about the familial connections surrounding her. “The kids all get a big kick out of her... She’s their aunt — [and] they’re about to be teenagers!” he noted cheerfully. It’s heartwarming to see how spanning generations come together to celebrate the newest addition to the De Niro clan.
Gia's first birthday was celebrated with love, as Robert detailed to Entertainment Tonight, describing cake and joy. “She had a little cake, it was very nice, sweet... she’s pure joy, there’s nothing about her, there’s no judgment, she just is what she is and it’s just pure joy for god sakes.” His description not only emphasizes his love for Gia but captures the innocence and happiness she embodies.
Despite the demands of being both famous and elderly, De Niro proves his commitment to family life remains strong. “Sometimes I don’t think people really know what being a good father is; you have a responsibility, but it’s a mystery, it’s a lot of excitement but scary, and you do your best,” he remarked. This honest take showcases both the joy and complexity of parenting, regardless of age.
De Niro’s refreshing perspectives on parenting contribute to open conversations about fatherhood, especially as older generations take on parenting roles. Through laughter, support, and loving moments shared with Gia and the broader family, De Niro proves there’s no age limit to experiencing the joys of parenthood.