When discussing Hollywood’s history of classic films, legendary actors, and stories of enduring relationships, the name Diahnne Abbott often appears in connection with her high-profile marriage to Robert De Niro. Yet, Abbott herself is more than just “Robert De Niro’s first wife.” She is an actress, singer, and a figure of quiet influence in 1970s and 1980s cinema. With appearances in critically acclaimed films such as Taxi Driver, New York, New York, and The King of Comedy, Abbott carved out her own legacy, even if she later chose a more private life.
This article takes a comprehensive look at who Diahnne Abbott is, her age, birth and early years, career as an actress, her movies, relationship with De Niro, details about her children, and the speculated net worth she has accumulated over the years.
Who is Diahnne Abbott?
Diahnne Abbott is an American actress and singer who came to prominence in the mid-1970s during Hollywood’s gritty, character-driven film era. Born in New York City on May 1, 1945, she emerged at a time when cinema was undergoing radical changes under the direction of filmmakers like Martin Scorsese.
Abbott’s early career included modest but memorable roles. Her most famous performances came in collaborations with Scorsese and De Niro, such as her cameo in Taxi Driver (1976), where she portrayed a movie theater concession clerk. Though her acting credits are not vast, her presence in films tied to such iconic directors and actors ensures her enduring recognition.
Outside of acting, Abbott is also known for her singing talent. One of her most remarkable on-screen moments was in New York, New York (1977), where she performed the jazz standard “Honeysuckle Rose.” This performance gave audiences a glimpse of her musical ability beyond acting.
Diahnne Abbott Age and Early Life
As of 2025, Diahnne Abbott is 80 years old. She celebrated her 80th birthday on May 1, 2025.
She was born and raised in New York City, though very little has been revealed about her parents and childhood. Some sources claim that Abbott’s father was from Antigua, which suggests her Caribbean roots, but details about her mother remain scarce.
Abbott’s cousin is the R&B singer Gregory Abbott, best known for the 1986 hit single “Shake You Down.” This family connection highlights her ties to a creative and artistic lineage.
Diahnne Abbott Actress Career
Diahnne Abbott’s career was closely tied to the rise of American New Wave cinema. While she never became a household name like her contemporaries, her roles were consistently associated with some of Hollywood’s greatest directors and actors.
Breakthrough with Taxi Driver (1976)
Abbott first caught the public eye in Martin Scorsese’s 1976 masterpiece Taxi Driver. She played a brief but memorable role as the concession clerk at an adult movie theater where Robert De Niro’s character, Travis Bickle, frequents. The film went on to become one of the most celebrated in American film history, placing Abbott firmly in the Hollywood spotlight.
Singing in New York, New York (1977)
In Scorsese’s musical drama New York, New York, Abbott delivered one of her career’s most distinctive moments. Playing a Harlem nightclub singer, she performed “Honeysuckle Rose.” The performance showcased her musicality and reinforced her identity as more than just an actress — she was an entertainer.
Starring in The King of Comedy (1983)
Another Scorsese-De Niro-Abbott collaboration came in The King of Comedy. Abbott played Rita Keane, the love interest of Rupert Pupkin (played by Robert De Niro). The role gave her more screen time and allowed her to explore the nuances of comedy-drama acting.
Other Films and Television Work
- Welcome to L.A. (1976) — Played Jeannette Ross.
- Love Streams (1984) — Appeared as Susan.
- Jo Jo Dancer, Your Life Is Calling (1986) — Played the character “Mother.”
- Before Night Falls (2000) — Returned to film as Blanca Romero.
- Soliloquy (2002) — Played Leah.
- TV work included a role in the series Crime Story (1988).
Though her filmography is not extensive, Abbott’s selective roles placed her in critically acclaimed films that continue to resonate with audiences and critics alike.
Diahnne Abbott’s Relationship with Robert De Niro
Abbott is often remembered for her high-profile marriage to Robert De Niro, one of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors.
Marriage and Family Life
- The two married in 1976, the same year Abbott appeared in Taxi Driver.
- Their marriage lasted over a decade before ending in 1988.
Abbott’s marriage to De Niro gave her exposure to Hollywood’s elite circles, but it also thrust her into the spotlight as she balanced family life with occasional film roles.
Children
The marriage produced one son:
- Raphael De Niro (born 1976), who later became a successful real estate broker in New York City.
Additionally, De Niro adopted Abbott’s daughter Drena from a previous relationship. Drena pursued a career in acting and filmmaking.
Through her children, Abbott has several grandchildren. Tragically, her grandson Leandro De Niro Rodriguez (Drena’s son) passed away in 2023 at the age of 19.
Diahnne Abbott Kids and Legacy Through Family
Abbott’s legacy extends through her children:
- Drena De Niro — Actress, filmmaker, and model. Though adopted, she maintains the De Niro surname and has worked in Hollywood projects.
- Raphael De Niro — Once considered to follow his father’s footsteps, Raphael instead found major success in New York’s real estate world, becoming one of the city’s top brokers.
Her role as a mother and grandmother often overshadows her Hollywood career in later discussions, but it is an integral part of understanding who Diahnne Abbott is.
Diahnne Abbott Net Worth
Like many celebrities who stepped back from the limelight, Abbott’s net worth is largely estimated rather than confirmed. Different sources provide varying figures:
- $1–$4 million on the lower end (cinenetworth, NetWorthList).
- $5–10 million according to other outlets (Biography Tribune, Biographypedia, TheCityCeleb).
The variation arises from speculation about her divorce settlement with Robert De Niro, combined with her film earnings, royalties, and possible investments.
Realistically, her net worth is believed to be in the multi-million range. What remains consistent is that Abbott has lived comfortably since retreating from the entertainment industry.
Diahnne Abbott Today
After the late 1980s, Abbott chose a more private lifestyle, away from Hollywood’s glare. While De Niro continued to dominate the acting world, Abbott maintained a quieter presence. Some reports suggest she continues to live in New York, occasionally appearing in interviews or documentaries related to her past work.
Her career might not boast dozens of films, but her contributions to cinema during a transformative era remain significant. She was part of films that shaped modern Hollywood storytelling, and through her children, she continues to have a legacy in the arts and business.
Conclusion
Diahnne Abbott is more than Robert De Niro’s former wife; she is an actress and singer with notable roles in landmark films. Born in 1945 and now 80 years old, she has lived through the highs and lows of Hollywood. Her roles in Taxi Driver, New York, New York, and The King of Comedy immortalized her place in cinematic history.
Her marriage to Robert De Niro brought her into the Hollywood limelight, and together they raised two children, both of whom carried forward their own legacies. With a net worth speculated in the millions, Abbott has lived a fulfilling yet private life in later years.
Though not as prolific as many Hollywood stars, Diahnne Abbott remains a respected figure from an era of revolutionary cinema. Her story is one of selective artistry, family devotion, and a decision to live away from the limelight after tasting fame.
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