Robert De Niro's grandson Leandro De Niro Rodriguez had been following in his grandfather's footsteps as an actor before his death.
The young star's tragic passing at just 19 was announced by his mother Drena De Niro, Robert's eldest daughter. Before his death, he had starred in major Hollywood movies, including A Star Is Born, with Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper.
Leonardo appeared alongside his mother Drena in the movie, playing the son of Dave Chappelle's character, George ‘Noodles’ Stone. His other acting credits included 2005’s The Collection, and 2018’s Cabaret Maxime.
Drena De Niro, the adopted daughter of Robert and actress Diahnne Abbott, shared the tragic news of Leonardo's passing on Instagram as she posted a picture of her son. His cause of death is yet to be revealed.
The 51-year-old said: "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. 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.
"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."
Tributes have been pouring in for Leandro, with actress Lana Parrilla writing: "Drena, I'm so deeply sorry. Sending you an enormous amount of love, prayers and strength. May God be with you and all who love your darling boy."
Rosie Perez added: "Shocked! I’m so sorry! We are all here for you !!! I love you too much!"
Writer Victoria Gotti said she was "heartbroken" at hearing the news.
Leandro's father, Carlos Mare, posted a blacked out picture on his Instagram, but he has not made any public statements.
Robert shares his daughter, Drena, and his son Raphael with his first wife, Diahnne Abbott, to whom he was married to from 1976 to 1988.
Robert is also the father to Julian, Aaron, Elliot, Helen, and Gia.
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