Robert De Niro wife is one of the most iconic actors in Hollywood, known for his impressive range and talent. But behind every successful man is a woman, and De Niro’s personal life has also been a topic of interest for many. In this complete guide, we will take a closer look at Robert De Niro’s wife and the impact she has had on his life and career.

Robert De Niro Wife Age

Robert De Niro’s wife, Grace Hightower, was born on April 7, 1955. She is originally from Kilmichael, Mississippi and is of African-American descent. Hightower’s father was a contractor and her mother worked as a homemaker.

Hightower grew up in poverty and had to work odd jobs to support herself and her family. Despite the challenges she faced, she was determined to succeed and went on to study acting at Howard University.

Meeting Robert De Niro

Hightower’s talent and hard work eventually led her to New York City, where she began working as a flight attendant for Trans World Airlines (TWA). It was during this time that she first crossed paths with Robert De Niro, who was a frequent flyer on her flights.

The two officially met at a restaurant in London and hit it off immediately. Despite their 12-year age difference, they began dating and eventually got married in 1997.

Marriage and Children

Robert De Niro and Grace Hightower have been married for over two decades now, despite facing some challenges in their relationship. They have two children together, a son named Elliott and a daughter named Helen Grace.

In 1999, they filed for divorce but later reconciled and renewed their vows in 2004. They continue to remain together and support each other through thick and thin.

Philanthropy and Activism

Aside from her role as Robert De Niro’s wife, Grace Hightower is a philanthropist and activist. She is the founder of the Grace Hightower & Coffees of Rwanda brand, which supports coffee farmers in Rwanda and provides them with fair wages.

Hightower is also a vocal advocate for social justice and has been involved in various charitable organizations and causes. She has been recognized for her philanthropy and activism, receiving awards such as the “Angel of Africa” award from the Africa Rising Foundation.

The Early Years

Robert De Niro married Diahnne Abbott, in 1976. Abbott was an actress and had a brief role in the movie Taxi Driver, which starred De Niro. Together they have a son named Raphael, who was born in 1976.

The couple’s marriage lasted for 12 years, and they divorced in 1988. Despite their separation, De Niro and Abbott remain on good terms and co-parent their son.

The Second Marriage

In 1997, Robert De Niro married his second wife, Grace Hightower. Hightower is a philanthropist and former flight attendant. The couple met in London while De Niro was filming the movie, Mr. Jones.

The couple has two children together, a son named Elliot (born in 1998) and a daughter named Helen Grace (born in 2011). Despite their significant age difference (De Niro is 35 years older than Hightower), the couple’s marriage has stood the test of time. 

Separation and Reconciliation

In 1999, just two years after their wedding, De Niro and Hightower separated. Their divorce was finalized in 2000, but the couple reconciled and renewed their vows in 2004.

In 2018, it was reported that De Niro had filed for divorce from Hightower, but the couple later announced that they were working on their relationship and had decided to stay together.

The Impact on De Niro’s Career

De Niro’s relationships with his wives have undoubtedly had an impact on his life and career. His first wife, Diahnne Abbott, introduced him to the renowned acting coach Stella Adler, who helped shape De Niro into the versatile actor he is today.

His second wife, Grace Hightower, has also had a significant impact on his career. She encouraged him to take on more comedic roles, which led to some of his most iconic performances in movies like Meet the Parents and The Intern.

Conclusion

Robert De Niro’s marriages have been an essential part of his life and have influenced his career in various ways. Despite facing some challenges, De Niro and Hightower’s marriage has endured for over two decades, proving that love knows no age. 

As the actor continues to charm audiences with his talent on screen, it is clear that his wife will always be by his side, supporting him every step of the way. Theirs is a love story that has stood the test of time, and it is one that fans will continue to root for. 

So, while De Niro’s wives may not be as well-known as he is in the public eye, they have undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping him into the legendary actor we know and admire today.

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