The name De Niro instantly brings to mind cinematic brilliance, legendary performances, and an enduring Hollywood legacy. While Robert De Niro is celebrated worldwide as one of the greatest actors of all time, his son Raphael De Niro has carved a unique path of his own. From dabbling in acting during his younger years to becoming one of New York City’s most respected real estate brokers, Raphael’s story is one of quiet achievement, resilience, and reinvention. This article explores in detail who Raphael De Niro is, his age, net worth, movies, relationships, connection to Robert De Niro, marriages, and children—giving readers a complete portrait of this intriguing personality.
Who is Raphael De Niro?
Raphael Eugene De Niro was born on November 9, 1976, in Los Angeles, California, to two parents deeply connected to the arts: Robert De Niro, the Academy Award–winning actor, and Diahnne Abbott, an actress and singer. Unlike many celebrity children who chase Hollywood fame, Raphael chose a more understated yet equally challenging professional journey.
Today, he is best known as a luxury real estate broker in New York City, the founder of The De Niro Team at Douglas Elliman, and a co-investor in several real estate ventures. His clientele often includes A-list celebrities, entrepreneurs, and international investors seeking Manhattan’s most exclusive properties. Beyond business, Raphael remains an important figure in the broader De Niro family legacy, representing the intersection of showbiz glamour and real estate success.
Raphael De Niro Age
Born in 1976, Raphael De Niro is currently 48 years old (as of 2025). Though he grew up in the Hollywood spotlight, he has largely avoided excessive media attention, focusing instead on building a professional identity distinct from his famous father. His age reflects the maturity of a man who has lived through the dual worlds of entertainment and real estate, yet found his long-term calling in the latter.
Raphael De Niro Net Worth
One of the most frequently asked questions is: what is Raphael De Niro’s net worth?
According to public estimates, Raphael De Niro’s net worth is around $5 million. While this figure is speculative, it is clear that his wealth primarily comes from his thriving real estate career, not Hollywood.
He has closed multimillion-dollar property transactions in New York City, including townhouses, penthouses, and luxury condos for celebrity clients. Additionally, Raphael has partnered with his father on projects such as the Greenwich Hotel in Tribeca, further boosting his portfolio. Unlike Robert De Niro’s cinematic empire, Raphael’s fortune is tied to property investments, commissions, and long-term real estate development strategies.
Raphael De Niro Movies & Early Acting Career
Though Raphael ultimately chose real estate as his primary career, he did step into Hollywood during his younger years. His film credits, though limited, showcase his early connection to cinema:
- Love Streams (1984) – Raphael appeared in this John Cassavetes film.
- Awakenings (1990) – He had a minor role in this critically acclaimed movie starring Robin Williams and Robert De Niro.
- Raging Bull (1980) – Sources suggest he appeared briefly in his father’s iconic boxing drama.
- West 4th (2007) – Served as an executive producer.
- James Abbott Is Gone (2013) – Produced by Raphael, reflecting his interest in film behind the scenes.
While Raphael’s acting career never matched the intensity of his father’s, it gave him valuable exposure to the entertainment industry. However, he ultimately realized his passion was elsewhere—ushering him into the dynamic world of real estate.
Raphael De Niro and Robert De Niro: Father-Son Connection
Raphael’s relationship with his father, Robert De Niro, is central to understanding his life. Robert’s career and fame inevitably shaped Raphael’s upbringing, but Raphael worked hard to build an independent path.
The two share more than blood—they have collaborated in business ventures, including hospitality projects. Robert has always expressed pride in his son’s achievements outside acting, admiring how Raphael forged success without relying solely on the family name.
Raphael is also a key figure among Robert’s large family of children. His siblings include:
- Drena De Niro (adopted daughter of Robert and Diahnne Abbott)
- Julian & Aaron De Niro (twins with model Toukie Smith)
- Elliot De Niro and Helen Grace De Niro (children with Grace Hightower)
- Gia Virginia Chen-De Niro (youngest daughter with Tiffany Chen, born 2023)
This makes Raphael one of Robert De Niro’s elder children, often seen as a stabilizing figure within the extended family.
Raphael De Niro’s Relationships and Marriages
Raphael De Niro’s personal life has been under public scrutiny, particularly regarding his marriages and relationships.
Marriage to Claudine DeMatos
In March 2008, Raphael married Claudine DeMatos, a woman who came from a prominent New York family. Their marriage lasted over a decade but began showing cracks by 2015. The couple separated and finalized their divorce in January 2020.
Marriage to Hannah Carnes
Shortly after his divorce, Raphael remarried. In March 2020, he tied the knot with Hannah Carnes, a fashion stylist. This marriage marked a new beginning for Raphael, blending his established family life with a new partner from the creative world.
Raphael De Niro’s Kids
Family has always been central to Raphael’s identity. With his first wife, Claudine DeMatos, he had three children:
- Nicholas De Niro (son)
- Ella Rose De Niro (daughter)
- Alexandria De Niro (daughter)
These children connect him not only to the broader De Niro family legacy but also to the personal responsibility of raising the next generation. Through his second marriage to Hannah Carnes, he is also a stepfather, further expanding his family role.
Raphael De Niro’s Role in Real Estate
What truly defines Raphael De Niro today is his career in luxury real estate. He founded The De Niro Team at Douglas Elliman, one of New York’s premier real estate brokerages. His team specializes in:
- Selling high-end Manhattan apartments
- Representing celebrity clients
- Facilitating multimillion-dollar international real estate deals
Raphael’s business acumen has made him one of the most respected names in the NYC property market. Unlike his father’s fame in Hollywood, Raphael’s fame is tied to the glass towers and historic brownstones of Manhattan.
Raphael De Niro: A Legacy Beyond Hollywood
Raphael De Niro embodies the idea that while family names can open doors, personal success requires carving one’s own path. From his modest film appearances to his commanding presence in real estate, Raphael proves that identity can evolve outside the shadow of a world-famous father.
At 48, he continues to balance professional achievement with family life, leaving his mark not on the silver screen but in the New York skyline. His story reflects resilience, reinvention, and the courage to choose a different dream than the one the world expected of him.
Conclusion
Raphael De Niro is more than just Robert De Niro’s son—he is a real estate mogul, former actor, and devoted father. His life story blends Hollywood legacy with entrepreneurial grit, showing how success can take many forms. From his early acting credits to his multi-million-dollar property empire, Raphael represents a new generation of the De Niro family—one equally impressive but on his own terms.
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