Toukie Smith, Pioneering Model and '227' Actress, Dies at 74

Toukie Smith, a prominent runway model in the 1970s and an actress recognized for her role on the NBC sitcom 227, has died at the age of 74. She passed away at a hospital in New York City following what her family described as a long and courageous battle with multiple sclerosis.

Her death was announced by her twin children, Airyn and Julian, whom she shared with her former partner, actor Robert De Niro. In a joint statement, her children remembered her legacy, stating that "Toukie was a force of nature" and that "she left an indelible mark on our hearts and on everyone lucky enough to know her."

Born Doris Smith in Philadelphia on September 25, 1952, she adopted the childhood nickname Toukie, inspired by a children's record about an energetic red fire engine. After attending the Fashion Institute of Technology, she launched her modeling career in 1972. She quickly rose to prominence, working with renowned designers such as Hubert de Givenchy, Thierry Mugler, Issey Miyake, and Patrick Kelly. In 1978, Bloomingdale's named her its model of the year.

Smith's career was deeply tied to a notable family legacy in fashion. She frequently modeled for her late brother, visionary designer Willi Smith, whose pioneering streetwear label helped shape American style before his death in 1987. Her children noted that her unique presence helped pave the way for generations of Black models and designers.

Transitioning to acting in the 1980s, Smith secured early television credits on Miami Vice before landing her most notable television role in 1989. She joined the cast of the Marla Gibbs-led NBC sitcom 227 during its fourth season, portraying artist Eva Rawley through the series' final season in 1990. Her subsequent film credits included features such as Talkin' Dirty After Dark, I Like It Like That, Joe's Apartment, and The Preacher's Wife.

Beyond fashion and acting, Smith ventured into the culinary world. She briefly operated a catering business that famously served Sean Penn and Madonna's wedding anniversary, and later managed an eponymous restaurant in New York City during the 1990s.

Smith and Robert De Niro were partners from 1988 to 1996. Their twins, Airyn and Julian, were conceived via in vitro fertilization and born to a surrogate mother in 1995. Smith is survived by her twin children, her brother Norman Smith-Harllee, and her nephew Eliazar Smith-Harllee.