Robert De Niro Says He’s ‘Deeply Distressed’ About Grandson’s Death In New Statement

Leandro De Niro-Rodriguez, the grandson of legendary actor Robert De Niro recently passed away at the young age of 19. Leandro was pronounced dead after the arrival of the EMS team, who responded to a distress call from the location where he was found lying unconscious and unresponsive.

Robert’s adopted daughter, Drena De Niro, and mother of the late teenager, confirmed the tragic news while expressing her profound grief and sorrow at the loss of her son. “You have been my joy my heart and all that was ever pure and real in my life,” she wrote in the Instagram post. “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.”

The late teenager was an actor before his demise

Leandro, who followed in his mother and grandfather’s footsteps, embarked on his own promising acting journey. He showcased his talent by sharing the screen with his mom in the 2018 film A Star is Born, where he portrayed the character of George ‘Noodles’ Stone’s son.

RELATED: Robert De Niro’s Grandson Leandro Dies At Age 19

His other acting credits include notable works such as his role in the 2005 film The Collection and his appearance in the 2018 film Cabaret Maxime in which he portrayed the Kid.

Robert De Niro expresses sorrow at the passing of his grandson, Leandro De Niro

In a statement to PEOPLE, De Niro mourned the passing of his grandson Leandro De Niro Rodriguez. The actor stated that the reality of Leandro’s death has made him very sorrowful. “I’m deeply distressed by the passing of my beloved grandson Leo,” De Niro told the news outlet. “We’re greatly appreciative of the condolences from everyone. We ask that we, please, be given privacy to grieve our loss of Leo.”

In a show of support and sympathy, colleagues and friends of Drena have taken to the comment section of her post to share their heartfelt condolences and offered words of comfort to help ease her pain during this difficult time. “Drena I am so sad to hear about beautiful Leo,” Andy Cohen wrote. “Sending you all my love.”

Actress Rosie Perez also commented, “Shocked! I’m so sorry! We are all here for you !!! I love you too [sic] much!” Movie director Lee Daniels shared his sympathies. “Drena, may GOD keep you in his arms.”

“Drena heartbroken for you, such a Duo, I can’t imagine how you must feel,” Supermodel Naomi Campbell wrote. “May the lord cover you and hold you in his arms, at this very sad time and loss … I love you, always here for you.”