5 Decades Of Glamour: What Toukie Smith, The Iconic Model And Actress, Is Doing Now In 2025

Doris "Toukie" Smith is a name synonymous with breaking barriers in the fashion and entertainment worlds, a true trailblazer whose career spans over five decades, from the high-fashion runways of Paris and Milan to the bright lights of Hollywood. As of December 12, 2025, she maintains a life of quiet influence in New York City, though recent public developments involving her family have once again brought the iconic model's name into the spotlight, reminding the world of her enduring legacy.

Her journey is not just a tale of glamour and celebrity partnerships; it is a story of resilience, pioneering spirit as a Black model in a predominantly white industry, and a deep, personal connection to one of American fashion's most important houses, WilliWear. This deep dive explores her complete biography, her monumental career, her acting pivot, and the most current, up-to-date news surrounding her life today.

Toukie Smith: Complete Biographical Profile

Toukie Smith, born Doris Smith, is an American model, actress, and entrepreneur whose career helped redefine beauty standards in the 1970s and 80s. She is celebrated for her powerful presence on the runway and her memorable role on the NBC sitcom 227. She also holds a significant place in fashion history as the muse and sister of the late, great designer Willi Smith.

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• Full Name: Doris A. Smith
• Known Professionally As: Toukie Smith
• Date of Birth: September 25, 1952
• Place of Birth: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
• Nationality: American
• Education: Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)
• Occupations: Model, Actress, Restaurateur (formerly)
• Years Active: 1972–Present
• Notable Modeling Clients: Chanel, Versace, Issey Miyake, Geoffrey Beene, Thierry Mugler
• Notable Acting Role: Eva Rawley on the NBC sitcom 227 (1989–1990)
• Significant Relationship: Robert De Niro (1988–1996)
• Siblings: Willi Smith (late fashion designer), Norman Smith
• Children: Twin sons Julian Henry De Niro and Aaron Kendrick De Niro (born via surrogate in 1995)
• Current Residence: Battery Park City, New York

The Trailblazing Model: From FIT to High Fashion Icon

Toukie Smith’s career began not on a whim, but with a solid foundation. After attending the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York, she quickly transitioned from the classroom to the international runways, beginning her professional modeling career in 1972.

In an era where Black models were often relegated to specific, token roles, Smith broke through the color barrier with her undeniable talent and striking look. She became a favorite of major European and American fashion houses, walking for legendary designers like Chanel, Versace, Issey Miyake, Geoffrey Beene, and Thierry Mugler.

Her success was pivotal, establishing her as one of the first Black supermodels and a muse for the era’s most innovative minds. She was frequently featured in top-tier publications, earning a reputation not just for her beauty, but for her energetic displays and trademark warm smile that captivated photographers and audiences alike.

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WilliWear and the Family Legacy

Perhaps one of Toukie Smith’s most profound contributions to fashion history is her intrinsic link to her brother, the visionary designer Willi Smith. Willi Smith’s WilliWear brand was revolutionary, known for its accessible, stylish, and comfortable "street couture" that blended high fashion with everyday wear.

Toukie was more than just his sister; she was his muse, his partner in crime, and a key figure in promoting the WilliWear aesthetic. She modeled his designs, embodying the spirit of the brand—a celebration of modern, diverse, and democratic fashion. When Willi Smith tragically passed away in 1987, Toukie became a fierce guardian of his legacy, ensuring his groundbreaking work was not forgotten.

A Legacy Beyond Fashion: Hollywood, Family, and 2025 Updates

Toukie Smith successfully parlayed her runway fame into an acting career, proving her versatility. She is best known for her role as Eva Rawley on the popular NBC sitcom 227, appearing from 1989 to 1990. Prior to that, she had roles in shows like Miami Vice and films such as Talkin' Dirty After Dark.

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Her personal life garnered significant media attention due to her long-term relationship with Academy Award-winning actor Robert De Niro, which lasted from 1988 to 1996. The couple had twin sons, Julian Henry De Niro and Aaron Kendrick De Niro, who were born via surrogate in 1995.

The Latest Family News in 2025

In a significant and very recent public development, one of Toukie Smith’s children, Airyn De Niro (also referred to as Aaron Kendrick De Niro in some earlier reports), came out as trans and gave their first-ever public interview in April/May 2025, bringing Toukie’s name back into the current news cycle.

Airyn, who is an aspiring model, spoke openly about their journey, hormone therapy treatment, and the importance of visibility. They publicly thanked both Toukie Smith and Robert De Niro for protecting their privacy during their upbringing, highlighting the supportive environment provided by their famous parents. This news underscores the family's continued presence in the public eye and Toukie Smith's role as a supportive parent.

Toukie Smith's Enduring Impact and Current Life

After her modeling and acting careers, Toukie Smith ventured into the restaurant business, notably opening the popular West Village soul food restaurant, Toukie's. This move showcased her entrepreneurial spirit and her connection to cultural culinary traditions.

Today, Toukie Smith lives a more private life in Battery Park City, New York. Her legacy, however, remains vibrant and multifaceted. She is remembered as a fashion pioneer who paved the way for future generations of Black models, a talented actress who found success on television, and a custodian of the WilliWear brand's groundbreaking ethos.

Her ability to navigate the demanding worlds of high fashion, Hollywood, and celebrity relationships while maintaining her authenticity is a testament to her strength. The recent public news involving her children only reaffirms her status as a figure whose life story continues to evolve and inspire, bridging the gap between the golden era of supermodeling and the modern cultural landscape of 2025.