The death of Robert De Niro’s grandson, Leandro De Niro-Rodriguez, shook Hollywood and devastated his family. The 19-year-old was found unresponsive in his New York apartment on July 2, 2023 — just two days after moving in to begin a theater internship. Investigators later determined he died from fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills.

Federal authorities arrested five men accused of distributing the deadly pills across New York and Long Island, linking the drugs to the deaths of three teens, including Leandro.

His mother, Drena De Niro, shared a heartbreaking tribute, calling him her “sweet angel” and expressing deep grief and disbelief. Robert De Niro also spoke publicly, saying he was “deeply distressed” and never imagined such a tragedy could touch his family.

Another teen connected to the same drug network — Akira Stein, daughter of Blondie co-founder Chris Stein — also died from fentanyl-tainted pills months earlier.

Leandro, who had already appeared in several films including A Star Is Born, was just beginning his own career. His family now hopes justice is served for a life lost far too soon.