Robert De Niro, the renowned actor, and his daughter, Drena De Niro, faced a heart-wrenching loss as they attended the wake of Drena’s son, Leandro. The 19-year-old tragically passed away on July 2, leaving behind a wave of sorrow for the family.
Paying Respects
At the Frank E. Campbell funeral home in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, Robert De Niro and Drena De Niro, accompanied by Carlos Rodriguez, Drena’s ex-husband, paid their final respects to Leandro. Despite attempts to maintain privacy, De Niro’s somber demeanor was evident as he walked to a waiting car after the emotional gathering.
Tributes and Memories
In the aftermath of the loss, both Robert De Niro and Drena De Niro shared heartfelt tributes to Leandro. Drena, who was adopted by De Niro and his ex-wife Diahnne Abbott in 1976, posted a poignant photo of Leandro as a child, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support during this difficult time.
Remembering Leandro
Describing Leandro as a vibrant young man who cherished life, family, and friendships, Drena honored his passion for coding and his desire to make a meaningful impact beyond social media. She highlighted his adventurous spirit and intellectual curiosity, noting his penchant for traveling alone to engage in profound discussions with strangers.
Addressing a Tragic Loss
Carlos Rodriguez also shared his perspective, emphasizing the profound impact of Leandro’s untimely passing. He expressed gratitude for the support received from loved ones and the community, underscoring the devastating consequences of opioids like fentanyl, which tragically claimed Leandro’s life.
Conclusion
Robert De Niro, in a statement, conveyed deep distress over the loss of his beloved grandson and requested privacy for the family to grieve. The tragic death of Leandro serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating effects of substance abuse and the importance of supporting families navigating such profound losses.
