Robert De Niro’s daughter Drena opened up about the heartbreak of losing her son, Leandro De Niro Rodriguez, two years ago.
In a candid interview, she shared how she believes social media, combined with the effects of the pandemic and fentanyl, played a part in her 19-year-old son’s death.
Leandro’s Passing and Its Circumstances
Leandro was found by a friend in a New York City apartment on July 2, 2023.
The New York City Medical Examiner later confirmed his death was accidental, caused by a toxic mix of fentanyl, bromazolam, ketamine, and cocaine.
It was a heartbreaking loss for his family, who remember him as smart, kind, and full of life.
Late last October, authorities made a major breakthrough when five individuals were arrested in connection with the overdose.
The arrests offered some measure of accountability, though Drena described the moment as “bittersweet.”
The Role of Social Media and Pandemic Pressures
During her interview with Page Six, Drena reflected on the rapid changes she noticed in Leandro.
“There was a change in him that was so fast,” she said.
While Leandro enjoyed parties and casual weed use, Drena felt the intensity of his downward spiral was linked to what he encountered online.
She also revealed that Leandro had once sought help through rehab, but the experience did not provide the support he needed.
“He knew he was over his head. I don’t think he even knew why,” she recalled.
“I think he had been exposed to much harder drugs that he didn’t know about.”
A Mother’s Worst Moment
Drena described the day she learned of her son’s death as shattering.
An NYPD detective came to her home with the devastating news.
“The whole world as I knew it collapsed,” she said.
Despite the arrests connected to the drug ring, Drena emphasized she is not seeking revenge.
“If you’re going to sell drugs to young people, you’re taking a chance,” she explained.
“I’m hoping they do get some justice, but I’m not interested in ruining someone’s life.”
Remembering Leandro and Their Special Bond
Leandro and Drena shared a uniquely close relationship.
She described it as the first time in her life she had an identity separate from her famous father.
“All of a sudden, you have this relationship with someone who knows the best of you, the worst of you,” she said.
Drena also highlighted Leandro’s intelligence and character.
“He was an amazing kid,” she told Page Six, remembering the joy and love they shared.
Launching a Foundation in His Memory
In the wake of her loss, Drena founded the Leandro De Niro Rodriguez Foundation.
Its mission is to fight the opioid crisis and educate the next generation about the dangers of synthetic drugs.
The foundation also focuses on raising awareness about mental health and reducing stigma surrounding substance use.
“We work to honor the lives of those affected by substance use and loss,” Drena said, emphasizing the importance of prevention and education.
A Spiritual Journey of Healing
Earlier this month, Drena shared a moving Instagram post about her visit to the Vatican.
She met Pope Leo XIV, an encounter she described as filling her with gratitude and connecting her spiritually to her late son.
“The warmth and kindness in Pope Leo’s eyes when he accepted my small token… I was given this blessing not only in my Leo’s memory, but in acknowledgment of all the young beautiful lives that have been taken too soon,” she wrote.
Investigations and Arrests
The investigation into Leandro’s death has since led to significant developments.
Prosecutors announced on October 30 that five men were arrested for running a drug ring in New York City, distributing counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl to teenagers and young adults.
Court filings indicate that one of the victims, referred to as “victim 3,” matches Leandro’s description.
Authorities also revealed the group supplied pills that killed other young people, including Akira Stein, daughter of Blondie guitarist Chris Stein.
A Legacy of Awareness and Advocacy
Robert De Niro issued a brief statement at the time of Leandro’s passing, expressing deep distress and gratitude for public condolences.
Neighbors also remembered Leandro as friendly and polite, a young man full of promise.
Through the foundation and her public reflections, Drena continues to honor her son’s memory, hoping to prevent other families from experiencing similar heartbreak.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn