Toukie Smith, Trailblazing Model and Actress, Dies at 74

A Life of Style and Substance

Toukie Smith, a distinguished model and actress who left an indelible mark on American fashion and television, has died at the age of 74. Her passing on 2026-11-04 in a New York hospital was confirmed by her twin children, Airyn and Julian De Niro. She had been facing a long and courageous battle with multiple sclerosis at the time of her death.

Born Doris A. Smith on September 25, 1952, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she would eventually become a household name under the moniker Toukie. She often shared that her grandmother gave her the nickname after a children's song about a high-energy fire engine. This vibrant spirit defined her approach to both her professional endeavors and her personal life.

Early Life and Modeling Career

Smith began her journey in the fashion industry in 1972 after attending the Fashion Institute of Technology. She quickly rose to prominence, modeling for legendary designers such as Chanel, Versace, Issey Miyake, and Thierry Mugler. Her work was instrumental in supporting the career of her brother, the late fashion designer Willi Smith, who was a pioneer of the street couture movement.

Her impact on the runway was historic, as she became the second African-American model to have a mannequin designed in her likeness. In 1978, she earned the title of Bloomingdale's Favorite Model, cementing her status as a top-tier talent. Beyond the runway, she graced the pages of major publications including Vogue, Ebony, and Cosmopolitan, proving her versatility as a print model.

Transition to Acting and Notable Works

In the 1980s, Smith successfully pivoted to acting, seeking to establish herself as a serious performer beyond her modeling roots. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Eva Rawley on the popular NBC sitcom 227, where she appeared during the show's final seasons. Her performance as the building manager and artist brought a unique presence to the series, which was celebrated for its portrayal of a middle-class Black family.

Her filmography includes a variety of projects that showcased her range as an actress. She appeared in films such as Talkin' Dirty After Dark, I Like It Like That, Joe's Apartment, and The Preacher's Wife. Despite the challenges of breaking into the competitive Hollywood landscape, she remained committed to her craft, often noting that she viewed herself as an actress first and foremost.

Personal Life and Legacy

Smith was in a high-profile relationship with actor Robert De Niro from 1988 to 1996. The couple welcomed twins, Airyn and Julian, in 1995, who were conceived via in vitro fertilization and born to a surrogate. While the pair eventually separated, they remained dedicated to their children, who have since spoken publicly about their mother's profound influence on their lives.

Beyond her work in entertainment, Smith was an entrepreneur who opened a restaurant in New York City called Toukie's in the 1990s. The establishment served as a community hub and donated a portion of its proceeds to AIDS research in honor of her brother, Willi Smith. Her legacy lives on through her children and the generations of Black models and designers who were inspired by her grace, beauty, and trailblazing career.