Toukie Smith Dies at 74: Model and Actor Remembered for Her Lasting Legacy

Toukie Smith, the American model and actor who made her mark in fashion and television, has died at 74, according to the report. Her children, Airyn and Julian, shared a tribute describing their mother as a powerful presence whose influence reached beyond her family and into the worlds of fashion and entertainment. They called Smith “a true force of nature” and said she had left an enduring impression on their hearts and on the lives of those who knew her. Their words also highlighted her role in opening doors for Black models and designers, praising the beauty, grace and confidence she brought to her work. Born Doris Smith in Philadelphia on September 25, 1952, she entered the fashion industry in 1972 after attending New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology. Her career brought collaborations with designers including Hubert de Givenchy, Thierry Mugler and Issey Miyake, as well as appearances in publications such as Vogue and Ebony. In 1978, Bloomingdale’s named her its model of the year. Smith later moved into acting. She appeared in Miami Vice and became widely recognized on television for playing Eva Rawley in the sitcom 227. Her film credits included Talkin’ Dirty After Dark, I Like It Like That, Joe’s Apartment and The Preacher’s Wife. Her family life also drew public attention. Smith was in a relationship with actor Robert De Niro from 1988 to 1996, and the former couple welcomed twins Airyn and Julian in 1995 through a surrogate. The report says they largely kept their private lives out of view and remained connected as parents after their separation. Smith was also the sister of fashion designer Willi Smith, who died in 1987 at 39. She often wore and supported his designs. Her children’s tribute presents a picture of a mother whose impact, they said, will live on in both family memories and the creative fields she helped shape.