When Robert De Niro let it slip during a casual 2023 interview that he’d just welcomed his seventh child, the internet basically had a collective meltdown. He was 79 at the time. Naturally, everyone started scrambling: Who is the mother? How long has this been going on?
Honestly, the "mystery woman" wasn't a mystery for long. Tiffany Chen, a powerhouse martial arts instructor with a resume that could put most action stars to shame, is the woman by his side. By early 2026, they’ve become one of Hollywood's most intriguing, if fiercely private, couples. You’ve probably seen the photos of them at Cannes or a White House state dinner, looking perfectly poised, but there is a lot more to their dynamic than just red-carpet hand-holding.
The Meet-Cute That Wasn't a Date
Most people think these two met at some swanky Hollywood gala. Nope. It was actually on the clock.
Back in 2015, Robert De Niro was filming The Intern—you know, the one where he’s the senior intern for Anne Hathaway. There’s a scene where his character is practicing Tai Chi in a park. Tiffany Chen was the actual instructor hired to teach him those moves and even played a small role in the film.
At the time, De Niro was still married to Grace Hightower. Things stayed professional for years. It wasn't until 2021, long after his split from Hightower, that the paparazzi caught them vacationing together in the South of France. They were spotted kissing on a yacht, and the rumor mill went into overdrive.
Who is Tiffany Chen, Really?
If you think she’s just another "celebrity partner," you're way off. Tiffany is a legend in the martial arts world. We’re talking dozens of gold medals and world titles. Her father is Grandmaster William C.C. Chen, a massive figure in the world of Tai Chi.
She grew up in this world. By age five, she was already deep into ballet, gymnastics, and swimming. By eight, she was figure skating. By eleven? Winning regional gold medals on the ice. She eventually realized that Tai Chi was the "secret sauce" for improving her form in everything else.
A Scary Health Battle
After the birth of their daughter, Gia Virginia Chen-De Niro, in April 2023, things got really scary for Tiffany. She opened up to Gayle King about a postpartum complication that many people had never heard of in this context: Bell’s palsy.
It started with a weird sensation in her tongue. Then her face felt "heavy." Eventually, her face just... collapsed. She described the terrifying feeling of her face "melting" on itself. It’s a reminder that even with all the wealth and access in the world, childbirth and its aftermath are no joke. She’s since recovered, but it was a vulnerable moment for a couple that usually keeps their personal lives under a titanium lock.
Robert De Niro Partner: Living with a Legend in 2026
So, what is it like being Robert De Niro's partner when the man is in his 80s and still working like he’s 25?
Reports from late 2025 and early 2026 suggest it’s a bit of a balancing act. De Niro is currently juggling massive film projects and a $250 million real estate development in the Caribbean. Sources close to the couple (the kind that talk to RadarOnline) have hinted that his schedule is "intense."
He’s reportedly out the door before breakfast, constantly on the phone, and deeply immersed in his business empire. Tiffany, meanwhile, is the one doing what De Niro calls the "heavy lifting" with their toddler, Gia.
Parenting at 82
In 2025, De Niro mentioned that he doesn't do the "heavy lifting" with the baby, but he tries to be supportive. He’s been spotted watching Ms. Rachel on YouTube with Gia—a relatable dad move if there ever was one.
The couple is also committed to raising Gia to be bilingual. Since she’s half-Chinese, De Niro has expressed a strong desire for her to learn the language and stay connected to Tiffany’s heritage. It’s a sweet detail for a guy known for playing tough-as-nails mobsters.
The Age Gap Conversation
Let's address the elephant in the room: the age gap. De Niro is 82. Tiffany is roughly 46. That’s a 36-year difference.
In Hollywood, this usually draws a lot of eye-rolls, but these two seem to operate on a different frequency. They aren't chasing clout. They aren't posting "couple goals" on Instagram every five minutes. They just... exist.
Whether they’re dining at Giorgio Baldi in Santa Monica with Billy Crystal or attending a high-stakes premiere at Cannes, they seem remarkably grounded.
Actionable Insights for Fans and Observers
If you’re following the Robert De Niro and Tiffany Chen story, here are a few things to keep in mind regarding their current status and public appearances:
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- Watch for Rare Appearances: They typically only show up for major events like the Cannes Film Festival or high-level political dinners. They aren't "street style" celebrities.
- Respect the Privacy: Unlike many modern celebrity couples, they rarely speak about their relationship status. Don't expect a wedding announcement or a "tell-all" interview anytime soon.
- Acknowledge the Career: Tiffany Chen is a professional in her own right. Referring to her only as a "partner" misses her significant contributions to the martial arts community.
- Follow the Filming: De Niro’s work schedule often dictates where they are. With new projects like The Whisper Man on the horizon for 2026, expect them to be splitting time between New York and various film sets.
The reality of being Robert De Niro's partner is clearly a mix of high-stakes Hollywood glamour and the very grounded, exhausting reality of raising a toddler. While the public is obsessed with the "how" and "why" of their relationship, they seem perfectly content just letting the work—and their family—speak for itself.
Check the latest film festival schedules if you’re looking to spot them together; that’s usually the only time they let the world in.
Next Steps for Readers
- Look into Bell's Palsy Symptoms: Tiffany Chen’s experience brought much-needed awareness to this condition. If you or a loved one are expecting, knowing the signs of postpartum neurological changes is vital.
- Explore Tai Chi for Balance: If you were inspired by how Tiffany met Robert, Tai Chi is a scientifically backed way to improve balance and reduce stress, regardless of your age.
- Follow De Niro's 2026 Projects: Keep an eye out for his upcoming Netflix thriller The Whisper Man to see if Tiffany's influence on his physical training continues to show on screen.