Renowned model and actress Toukie Smith has passed away at the age of 74, as announced by her twin children, Airyn and Julian. The twins, who she had with former partner Robert De Niro, revealed that Smith died on 4th November in a New York hospital after bravely battling multiple sclerosis.
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Smith, born Doris Smith on 25th September 1952 in Philadelphia, was a striking figure in both the modelling and acting worlds. She adopted the stage name “Toukie,” a moniker inspired by her grandmother, who gave her the nickname from a children’s record about a spirited little red fire engine. Reflecting on her vibrant personality, she once stated, “I’ve always had lots of energy.”
With aspirations in the fashion industry, Smith enrolled at the Fashion Institute of Technology. By 1972, she was making a name for herself on the modelling scene, gracing the pages of prestigious magazines like Vogue and Ebony. She became known for her work with elite designers including Hubert de Givenchy, Thierry Mugler, Issey Miyake, and her brother, Willi Smith, who unfortunately passed away in 1987 due to complications from AIDS. Smith’s appreciation for fashion extended to her desire to open a museum showcasing her collection, reflecting the enduring influence of her brother’s legacy.
Her modelling career reached a pinnacle in 1978, when she was titled Bloomingdale’s model of the year. However, it was her transition to acting that further solidified her status in the entertainment industry. In the late 1980s, Smith captivated audiences with her role as Angie in multiple episodes of NBC’s famed series Miami Vice, featuring alongside stars such as Don Johnson and Sheena Easton.
In 1989, Smith joined the beloved sitcom 227, portraying the character Eva alongside veteran actress Marla Gibbs. Beyond television, she appeared in several films during the 1990s, including Talkin’ Dirty After Dark, I Like It Like That, and The Preacher’s Wife, showcasing her versatility as an entertainer.
Aside from her work in front of the camera, Smith also ventured into the culinary world by launching her eponymous restaurant located on West Houston Street in New York City. This entrepreneurial spirit reflected her multifaceted talent and dedication to her passions.
Toukie Smith became a mother in October 1995 when she and Robert De Niro welcomed twins via surrogate. Their relationship began in 1988 and was marked by periods of both union and separation. Smith often maintained a level of privacy regarding her personal life, once remarking, “What’s great about a private life is it’s private.” Despite the complexities of their relationship, the couple shared a significant bond through their children.
In her later years, Smith’s health declined as she contended with multiple sclerosis, but her legacy in both modelling and acting remains impactful. As fans and loved ones remember her vibrant spirit and contributions to the arts, Smith’s passing leaves a profound absence in the hearts of many.
With her distinct style and tenacious spirit, Toukie Smith’s life serves as an enduring testament to creativity and resilience within the entertainment industry. Her achievements continue to inspire aspiring models and actors, as well as those who aspire to forge their own paths in the world of fashion and beyond.
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