You know what’s wild? Robert De Niro’s still out there making movies, raising kids, running restaurants—and he’s 82 years old. Yeah, you read that right. Eighty-two.
Most people at that age are thinking about retirement, grandkids, maybe a quiet life somewhere warm. But De Niro? He’s still showing up on set, still getting into character, still… working. And honestly, that’s what makes people curious. How old is Robert De Niro exactly? What’s keeping him going? And why does it feel like he’s been around forever but somehow never slows down?
Let me tell you—this isn’t just another celebrity age article. We’re diving deep into what makes this Hollywood legend tick, how he’s managed to stay relevant across six decades, and what we can actually learn from a guy who became a father of seven at 79 years old. Because that’s… that’s something, right?
Table of Contents
Biography at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Robert Anthony De Niro Jr. |
| Born | August 17, 1943 |
| Current Age | 82 years old (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Manhattan, New York City (Greenwich Village) |
| Parents | Virginia Admiral (painter) & Robert De Niro Sr. (abstract expressionist painter) |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Actor, Producer, Director, Entrepreneur |
| Years Active | 1963–present (60+ years) |
| Children | Seven children |
| Partner | Tiffany Chen (girlfriend) |
| Previous Marriages | Diahnne Abbott (1976–1988), Grace Hightower (1997–2018) |
| Notable Awards | 2 Academy Awards, Golden Globe, Cecil B. DeMille Award, Presidential Medal of Freedom |
| Net Worth | Approximately $500 million |
| Famous Roles | Vito Corleone (Godfather Part II), Travis Bickle (Taxi Driver), Jake LaMotta (Raging Bull) |
| Business Ventures | Nobu restaurants, Tribeca Film Festival co-founder |
Who Is Robert De Niro?
Before we get into the numbers and the health stuff and all that—let’s just remember who we’re talking about here.
Robert De Niro isn’t just some actor who got lucky. He’s… well, he’s the actor for a lot of people. The guy who redefined what method acting could be. The man who gained 60 pounds for Raging Bull, learned to speak fluent Sicilian for Godfather Part II, and drove a real cab around New York to prep for Taxi Driver. That’s dedication. That’s almost obsessive, really—but in the best way.
Born to artist parents in Greenwich Village, De Niro grew up surrounded by creativity. His mother, Virginia Admiral, was a painter. His father, Robert De Niro Sr., was an abstract expressionist painter who actually knew people like Jackson Pollock. So art wasn’t just something you did—it was the air you breathed in that household.
And maybe that’s where it started, you know? That understanding that craft matters. That showing up and doing the work—really doing it—is what separates the good from the great. De Niro carried that from Little Italy to Hollywood, and he never really let go of it.
When people ask “how old is Robert De Niro,” they’re usually not just asking about the number. They’re asking: How is this guy still relevant? How is he still working? What’s the secret?
Robert De Niro’s Current Age in 2026
Alright, let’s get specific.
Robert De Niro was born on August 17, 1943. That makes him 82 years old as we’re sitting here in 2026. He celebrated his birthday last year (2025) turning 82, and he’ll turn 83 this coming August.
Now, 82 isn’t exactly young. But it’s not ancient either, especially these days when people are living longer, staying healthier, remaining active well into their 80s and beyond. The thing is—most people at 82 aren’t starring in movies, attending film festivals, managing business empires, and raising young children. De Niro is.
When you think about it, he’s been alive for over eight decades. He witnessed World War II ending as a toddler, grew up during the 1950s, came of age during the cultural revolution of the 1960s, and built his career during the golden age of American cinema in the 1970s. He’s lived through all of it.
So yeah, 82 years old. But here’s what matters more than the number: he’s a still working actor at 82. That’s the real story.
Early Life and Background
Robert Anthony De Niro Jr. was born in Manhattan, New York City, specifically in Greenwich Village. And if you know anything about Greenwich Village in the 1940s and 50s, you know it was the place to be if you were an artist, a writer, a creative type who didn’t quite fit into mainstream America.
His parents—both painters—were part of that scene. Virginia Admiral and Robert De Niro Sr. were talented, passionate artists who unfortunately separated when young Robert was only two years old. He was raised primarily by his mother, though he maintained a relationship with his father throughout his life.
Growing up in Little Italy and Greenwich Village shaped him in ways that are obvious when you watch his early films. There’s a grittiness, an authenticity to the way he portrayed street-smart characters. He knew those neighborhoods. He understood the rhythms, the attitudes, the unspoken codes.
School wasn’t really his thing, apparently. De Niro dropped out of high school to pursue acting—a decision that probably gave his artistic parents some mixed feelings, but ultimately proved to be the right call. He studied at the Stella Adler Conservatory and later with Lee Strasberg at the Actors Studio, where he learned the method acting techniques that would become his trademark.
This was the 1960s, remember. He was in his twenties, figuring himself out, taking small roles, doing whatever work he could find. There’s this great story about how he worked as a wedding singer and played guitar on the street for money. He wasn’t born into Hollywood royalty—he built his way there.
And honestly? That struggle, that grinding-it-out period—it probably taught him more about longevity than any acting class ever could. Because when you’ve had to fight for everything, you don’t take success for granted. You keep showing up.
Career Longevity and Achievements
Okay, so let’s talk about the career spanning six decades thing, because that’s… that’s almost unheard of in Hollywood.
De Niro’s first credited film role came in 1963. Think about that. 1963. That’s over sixty years of consistent work. Sure, there were ups and downs—every actor has those—but he never really disappeared. He never became irrelevant. Even when his film choices got questionable in the 2000s (we’ll skip past those comedies, shall we?), he remained a presence.
His breakthrough came with Mean Streets in 1973, directed by Martin Scorsese. That partnership—De Niro and Scorsese—became one of the most legendary collaborations in film history. They made nine films together, including some absolute masterpieces.
Then came The Godfather Part II in 1974. De Niro played young Vito Corleone, the role Marlon Brando originated, and he… he made it his own. Completely. He won his first Academy Award for that performance, and he was only 31 years old. An Oscar winner at 31. Not bad.
But he didn’t peak there. Oh no. Taxi Driver in 1976 gave us Travis Bickle, one of cinema’s most disturbing and memorable characters. Then The Deer Hunter in 1978. Then Raging Bull in 1980—for which he won his second Oscar, this time for Best Actor.
Raging Bull is worth pausing on. De Niro gained 60 pounds to portray Jake LaMotta in his later years. He actually trained as a boxer, fought in real boxing matches, and completely transformed his body. That’s method acting dedication taken to an extreme that most actors wouldn’t even consider.
Throughout the 1980s and 90s, he delivered iconic performances in films like Once Upon a Time in America, The King of Comedy, Goodfellas, Cape Fear, Heat, and Casino. Each role different, each character fully realized. He wasn’t just playing variations of the same guy—he became whoever the script required.
Here’s a partial list of his achievements:
- 2 Academy Awards (Best Supporting Actor for Godfather Part II, Best Actor for Raging Bull)
- 7 additional Oscar nominations
- Golden Globe Awards
- Cecil B. DeMille Award for lifetime achievement
- Presidential Medal of Freedom (2016)
- Kennedy Center Honors
- Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award
But beyond the awards—which are impressive, don’t get me wrong—it’s the consistency that stands out. He’s been relevant across multiple generations. Teenagers today recognize him from The Irishman (2019) or Killers of the Flower Moon (2023). Their parents remember him from Meet the Parents. Their grandparents watched him in Taxi Driver.
That’s career longevity. That’s what happens when you’re not just talented, but also disciplined, professional, and willing to evolve.
Health and Wellness at 82
So here’s the question everyone really wants answered: How is Robert De Niro still going strong at 82?
Because let’s be honest—82 years old is an age where most people are dealing with health issues. Arthritis, heart problems, memory decline, decreased energy… it’s just reality for a lot of folks. But De Niro? He’s still working 12-hour days on film sets.
Now, he hasn’t exactly shared his complete wellness routine with the world. The guy’s pretty private about his personal life. But we can piece together some insights from interviews and observations.
First, there’s mental health. Staying mentally sharp matters enormously as you age, and acting—especially the method acting approach De Niro employs—requires serious cognitive engagement. You’re memorizing lines, analyzing characters, problem-solving in the moment. That’s like CrossFit for your brain.
Then there’s the active lifestyle component. De Niro doesn’t sit around. He’s constantly working on projects, traveling between New York and Los Angeles, attending events, managing his business ventures. Physical activity and movement—even if it’s just walking around a film set—keeps the body functioning.
There’s also the purpose factor. Research on healthy aging consistently shows that having a sense of purpose—reasons to get up in the morning—correlates with longevity. De Niro has plenty of purpose: films to make, restaurants to oversee, a film festival to run, children to raise. He’s not coasting.
Diet probably plays a role too, though again, details are scarce. He co-owns the Nobu restaurants, which serve high-quality Japanese cuisine heavy on fish, vegetables, and relatively healthy preparation methods. It’s possible he eats well. Or maybe he just likes steak. Who knows?
One thing we do know: he quit smoking years ago. That’s huge. Smoking is one of the biggest predictors of health problems in older age, and kicking that habit—whenever you do it—extends your lifespan and improves quality of life.
Stress management is another piece. Sure, De Niro works a lot, but he also seems to have found balance. He takes vacations. He spends time with family. He doesn’t appear to be the type who’s constantly anxious or burnt out. Experience and wisdom help with that—when you’re 82 and you’ve already won two Oscars and built a $500 million net worth, you probably don’t sweat the small stuff anymore.
And finally—and this might sound strange—good genes likely play a role. His mother lived to be 91. Longevity often runs in families. If your parents lived long, healthy lives, your odds improve. That’s just biology.
But here’s the thing: genes aren’t destiny. They’re more like… tendencies. De Niro still had to do the work. He had to stay active, stay engaged, take care of himself. Healthy aging doesn’t just happen—it’s a combination of genetics, lifestyle choices, and probably a little luck.
Family Life and Fatherhood in His 80s
Okay, this is where it gets really interesting.
Robert De Niro has seven children. Seven. And his youngest was born when he was 79 years old. Let me say that again: 79 years old.
Here’s the breakdown:
- Drena De Niro (born 1971) – adopted daughter from his marriage to Diahnne Abbott
- Raphael De Niro (born 1976) – son with Diahnne Abbott
- Twin boys, Julian and Aaron (born 1995) – via surrogacy during his marriage to Grace Hightower
- Elliot De Niro (born 1998) – with Grace Hightower
- Helen Grace (born 2011) – via surrogacy with Grace Hightower
- Gia Virginia Chen-De Niro (born 2023) – with girlfriend Tiffany Chen
That’s a multigenerational family if there ever was one. His oldest child is in her 50s. His youngest is a toddler. He’s simultaneously a grandfather and a father to a baby. That’s… that’s a lot.
Most people would consider that insane. And maybe it is, a little. But it also speaks to something about De Niro’s approach to life: he’s still living it. He’s not winding down. He’s not in retirement mode. He’s actively engaged in the full chaos and joy of raising young children even as he approaches his mid-80s.
There’s research suggesting that being an engaged parent—especially later in life—can actually contribute to longevity. It gives you purpose, keeps you active, forces you to stay present. You can’t zone out and drift into old age when you’ve got a three-year-old demanding attention.
De Niro has mentioned in interviews that being a father is one of the most important things in his life. More important than the Oscars, more important than the fame. Family matters to him. And at 82, he’s still showing up for that role.
Some people might judge him for becoming one of the oldest fathers in Hollywood. There are questions about whether it’s fair to have children when you’re that age—will you be around for their childhood? Their teenage years? It’s a valid concern. But life expectancy keeps increasing, and if De Niro stays healthy, there’s a decent chance he’ll be there for a lot of it.
Plus, his older children are adults now. Built-in support system. Extended family. It’s not like the youngest kids will be completely alone if something happens.
Still, you have to wonder about the energy required. Toddlers are exhausting. They’re wonderful, sure, but they’re also non-stop chaos machines that never sleep and always need something. How does an 82-year-old man handle that? Carefully, I’d imagine. With a lot of help. And probably some really good nannies.
Still Active: Recent Projects and Work
Let’s talk about what De Niro’s been up to lately, because “lately” for him doesn’t mean relaxing by the pool—it means more work.
In 2023, he starred in Killers of the Flower Moon, Martin Scorsese’s epic about the Osage murders. That film was over three hours long, shot in Oklahoma under challenging conditions, and required De Niro to deliver a complex, nuanced performance as a manipulative cattle rancher. At 79 years old, he pulled it off. The film received critical acclaim, and De Niro earned yet another round of praise for his work.
Before that, in 2019, came The Irishman—Scorsese’s sprawling mob epic that reunited De Niro with Al Pacino and Joe Pesci. That film used de-aging technology to show De Niro’s character across decades, and it required him to act in ways that would later be digitally altered. Technically demanding stuff. And he was 76 when they filmed it.
He’s also appeared in various comedies and action films—The Comeback Trail, Amsterdam, About My Father. Not all of them were critical darlings (some were… not good, honestly), but they demonstrate that he’s still working. Still taking roles. Still showing up.
Beyond acting, De Niro remains deeply involved in the Tribeca Film Festival, which he co-founded in 2002 after 9/11 to help revitalize Lower Manhattan. The festival has become one of the most prestigious film events in the world, showcasing independent films and supporting emerging filmmakers. That’s a meaningful legacy beyond his acting career.
His Nobu restaurants—the high-end Japanese fusion chain he co-owns with chef Nobu Matsuhisa—continue to expand globally. There are dozens of locations worldwide, from New York to Dubai to Tokyo. That’s a business empire that requires attention and management.
And apparently, he’s not done yet. There are reports of upcoming projects in development, though details are scarce. Knowing De Niro, he’s probably got at least a few more films in him before he seriously considers retirement—if he ever does.
The point is: at 82, Robert De Niro is a still working actor with a full schedule. He’s not coasting on past achievements. He’s not doing the celebrity talk show circuit reminiscing about the good old days. He’s making new days.
Secrets to His Longevity and Success
So what’s the secret? How does someone maintain this level of activity and relevance for over six decades?
I think it comes down to several factors working together:
1. Method acting dedication and genuine craft
De Niro treats acting like a serious profession, not just a job. He prepares intensely for roles, does his research, and fully commits. That level of engagement keeps his mind sharp and his work meaningful. When you’re genuinely invested in your craft, it’s not “work” in the draining sense—it’s fulfilling.
2. Continuous evolution
He didn’t get stuck playing the same character over and over (even though he could have made a fortune just playing tough guys for 40 years). He took risks, tried comedy, worked with different directors, explored different genres. Evolution keeps you relevant.
3. Multiple sources of purpose
It’s not just about acting. He’s got the restaurants, the film festival, his family. Multiple streams of meaning in his life. When one area gets frustrating or slow, there’s always something else to focus on.
4. Financial security
Let’s not pretend this doesn’t matter. With a net worth of $500 million, De Niro doesn’t have to work. He’s not taking roles because he needs the paycheck. He’s doing it because he wants to. That freedom reduces stress and allows him to be selective about projects.
5. Strong relationships
Despite two divorces, De Niro has maintained relationships with his children and found a new partner later in life. Social connection is one of the strongest predictors of longevity and happiness in old age. People who have strong family bonds and friendships live longer, healthier lives.
6. Life lessons and wisdom
Experience teaches you things. By 82, you’ve made mistakes, learned from them, and (hopefully) figured out what actually matters. You don’t sweat the small stuff. You don’t get caught up in drama. You focus on what’s important and let the rest go. That’s wisdom, and it’s hard-earned.
7. Never fully retiring
This might be the biggest factor. Complete retirement—just stopping everything—can actually accelerate aging for some people. Your brain needs stimulation. Your body needs movement. Your spirit needs purpose. By staying active and engaged, De Niro keeps all those systems running.
Of course, we can’t forget luck. Health is partly luck. Avoiding serious accidents or illnesses is partly luck. Having the opportunities he’s had—partly luck (combined with talent and hard work, but still). Life doesn’t offer guarantees to anyone.
But within the circumstances you’re given, you make choices. De Niro chose to keep working, keep learning, keep engaging with life. At 82, those choices have added up to something remarkable.
Net Worth and Business Ventures
Let’s talk money for a minute, because De Niro’s financial success is part of his longevity story.
His estimated net worth is approximately $500 million. That’s… that’s a lot of money. Like, generational wealth. Never-worry-about-bills-again money.
Where did it come from?
Obviously, acting. Decades of starring in major Hollywood films adds up. Even his later work, the less critically acclaimed stuff, paid well. Movie stars of his caliber command hefty salaries, and he’s been a movie star since the 1970s.
But there’s also the Nobu restaurants. This is brilliant, honestly. While other actors were just taking their paychecks and buying real estate or stocks, De Niro partnered with chef Nobu Matsuhisa to create a global restaurant empire. The first Nobu opened in New York in 1994, and it became an instant hit with celebrities and wealthy diners.
Now there are Nobu locations in dozens of cities around the world. Each one is upscale, expensive, and consistently packed. The brand has expanded to include Nobu Hotels as well. It’s a genuine business success story, not just a vanity project.
He’s also invested in real estate over the years, owns properties in Manhattan and the Hamptons, and has likely made smart investment decisions with his earnings (or hired good people to do it for him).
Financial security at this level does something important: it removes stress. Money doesn’t buy happiness, but it absolutely buys options and peace of mind. De Niro can choose projects based on artistic merit rather than paychecks. He can support his children without worry. He can focus his energy on what matters rather than constantly hustling for the next gig.
That reduces stress, which improves health, which contributes to longevity. It’s all connected.
What’s Next for Robert De Niro?
So what’s next for an 82-year-old Oscar winner who’s already accomplished more than most actors dream of?
Honestly? Probably more of the same.
De Niro doesn’t strike me as someone who’s planning a dramatic retirement announcement anytime soon. He’ll keep taking roles that interest him, keep managing his businesses, keep showing up for his family. That’s just who he is at this point.
There’s talk of future collaborations with Scorsese, though nothing confirmed. Given that Scorsese is 82 as well (born 1942), their window for working together is narrowing. But if they can pull off one or two more films, that would be something special.
He’ll likely continue mentoring younger actors, whether formally or informally. Having that kind of experience and knowledge to share is valuable, and De Niro seems to care about the craft enough to want to pass it on.
The Tribeca Film Festival will continue to be a focus. That’s his legacy project in many ways—something that will outlast him and continue supporting filmmakers for generations.
And of course, there’s family. Watching his youngest children grow up, being present for them, enjoying his grandchildren. At 82, those might become increasingly central priorities.
Will he work less? Maybe. Probably. It would be natural to slow down a bit. But I don’t see him stopping entirely. Not by choice, anyway. He’s built his entire adult life around work and creativity, and people like that don’t just… stop.
The real question is: how long can he keep going? And honestly, nobody knows. He could work until 90. He could face health challenges tomorrow. Life’s unpredictable that way.
But if I had to bet, I’d say we’ll see Robert De Niro in at least a few more films over the next few years. He’s not done yet.
Frequently Asked Questions About How Old Is Robert De Niro?
How old is Robert De Niro in 2026?
Robert De Niro is 82 years old, born on August 17, 1943. He will turn 83 in August 2026.
Is Robert De Niro still acting?
Yes, he is still acting and continues to take major film roles. He recently appeared in Killers of the Flower Moon (2023).
How many children does Robert De Niro have?
Robert De Niro has seven children. His youngest child was born in 2023, when he was 79 years old.
What is Robert De Niro’s net worth?
Robert De Niro’s estimated net worth is around $500 million, earned from acting and business ventures such as the Nobu restaurant empire.
When was Robert De Niro born?
He was born on August 17, 1943, in Greenwich Village, Manhattan, New York City.
How many Oscars has Robert De Niro won?
Robert De Niro has won two Academy Awards:
- Best Supporting Actor for The Godfather Part II (1974)
- Best Actor for Raging Bull (1980)
Who is Robert De Niro’s partner?
His current partner is Tiffany Chen. They share a daughter named Gia.
Is Robert De Niro retired?
No, Robert De Niro is not retired. He remains active in films, business ventures like Nobu restaurants, and the Tribeca Film Festival.
What is Robert De Niro’s most famous role?
Some of his most iconic roles include Travis Bickle (Taxi Driver), Vito Corleone (The Godfather Part II), and Jake LaMotta (Raging Bull).
How did Robert De Niro meet Martin Scorsese?
They met through the New York film scene in the early 1970s and first collaborated on Mean Streets (1973), beginning a legendary filmmaking partnership.
Conclusion
So… how old is Robert De Niro? He’s 82 years old, born August 17, 1943. But that number barely scratches the surface of who he is and what he represents.
He’s a two-time Academy Award winner who’s maintained relevance across six decades of American cinema. He’s a father of seven who became one of the oldest fathers in Hollywood by having a child at 79. He’s a successful entrepreneur with a restaurant empire and a film festival that’s changed the landscape of independent cinema. He’s a still working actor who shows no signs of slowing down, even as he approaches his mid-80s.
More than that, he’s proof that healthy aging is possible when you combine purpose, passion, discipline, and probably some good genetics. His career longevity isn’t an accident—it’s the result of consistent dedication to his craft, smart business decisions, and a refusal to fade away just because he’s gotten older.
Will he work forever? Probably not. Nobody does. But for now, at 82, Robert De Niro is still here, still creating, still showing up. That’s worth paying attention to, whether you’re a film fan, someone thinking about your own aging process, or just curious about how one of the greatest actors in Hollywood history has managed to stay relevant for so long.
The real lesson isn’t about acting or fame. It’s about what happens when you find something you love, commit to it fully, never stop learning, and stay engaged with life—no matter how many years old you become. De Niro’s doing that. And at 82, he’s still teaching us what’s possible when you refuse to let age define your limitations.
That’s the story. That’s who Robert De Niro is in 2026. An 82-year-old legend who’s still writing new chapters.
