Toukie Smith is an American actress, model, and entrepreneur best known for her role as Eva Rawley on the NBC sitcom 227 and for her long-term relationship with actor Robert De Niro. During her successful career, Smith worked with major fashion brands, appeared in television and film projects, and later became recognized for her business ventures and influence in the fashion industry.

Quick Facts About Toukie Smith

Fact	Details
Full Name	Doris A. “Toukie” Smith
Birth Date	April 25, 1955
Birthplace	Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Profession	Actress, Model, Entrepreneur
Famous For	227, Modeling Career, Relationship with Robert De Niro
Children	Twin Sons
Sibling	Fashion Designer Willi Smith
Nationality	American

Introduction

Toukie Smith is one of those rare entertainers who successfully crossed over from modeling to acting while building a recognizable personal brand. Although many people know her because of her relationship with Hollywood legend Robert De Niro, Smith established her own reputation years before their romance became public. From high-fashion runways to television screens, she built a career that earned respect in both the entertainment and fashion worlds.

Who Is Toukie Smith?

Toukie Smith is an American actress, fashion model, and entrepreneur born on April 25, 1955, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

She rose to prominence during the 1970s and 1980s as one of the most successful African-American models in the fashion industry. Her striking appearance, confidence, and professionalism helped her secure work with major designers and brands during a period when diversity in fashion was far more limited than it is today.

Later, she transitioned into acting and became a familiar face on television and in Hollywood productions.

Early Life and Family Background

Toukie Smith was born and raised in Philadelphia. She comes from a talented and accomplished family.

She is the sister of renowned fashion designer Willi Smith, whose influence on American fashion continues to be recognized decades after his passing. Growing up in a creative environment exposed Toukie to art, design, and fashion from an early age.

Her family’s connection to the fashion world helped inspire her interest in modeling, though her eventual success was largely the result of her own talent and determination.

Modeling Career

Before becoming an actress, Toukie Smith enjoyed tremendous success as a professional model.

During the late 1970s and 1980s, she worked with several prestigious fashion brands and appeared in major publications. Her career flourished at a time when opportunities for Black models were more limited, making her achievements particularly significant.

She modeled for notable fashion houses and appeared in advertising campaigns that helped establish her reputation as one of the industry’s most recognizable faces.

Her success paved the way for future generations of diverse models entering the fashion world.

Transition to Acting

After establishing herself in fashion, Toukie Smith expanded her career into television and film.

Like many successful models who move into acting, she faced the challenge of proving herself in a completely different industry. However, her charisma and screen presence helped her secure acting opportunities.

Her performances demonstrated that she possessed talents beyond modeling, allowing her to build credibility as an actress.

Role on 227

Toukie Smith is perhaps best remembered by television audiences for her role as Eva Rawley on the popular NBC sitcom 227.

The show, which aired during the 1980s and early 1990s, became a major success and introduced audiences to several talented performers.

Smith’s character brought style, confidence, and humor to the series, making her one of the memorable recurring figures on the show.

Her appearance on 227 significantly increased her visibility and helped solidify her status as a television personality.

Film Career

In addition to television, Toukie Smith appeared in several films throughout her acting career.

Her movie credits allowed her to work alongside respected actors and directors while expanding her audience beyond television viewers.

Although she never pursued blockbuster stardom on the scale of some Hollywood contemporaries, her film work contributed to a well-rounded entertainment career.

Relationship with Robert De Niro

One of the most discussed aspects of Toukie Smith’s life is her relationship with Academy Award-winning actor Robert De Niro.

The couple began dating in the late 1980s and remained together for several years.

Although they never married, their relationship attracted significant media attention due to De Niro’s status as one of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors.

During their relationship, Smith and De Niro welcomed twin sons through surrogacy in 1995.

Even after their separation, both remained connected through their shared commitment to their children.

Business Ventures

Beyond modeling and acting, Toukie Smith explored entrepreneurial opportunities.

One of her best-known business ventures involved a line of mannequins designed to better represent diverse body types and ethnic backgrounds.

The project reflected her understanding of the fashion industry and her desire to promote broader representation.

Her entrepreneurial efforts demonstrated creativity and business insight beyond her work in entertainment.

Influence on Fashion and Representation

Toukie Smith’s impact extends beyond her individual achievements.

As a successful Black model during a transformative era in fashion, she helped increase visibility for women of color in mainstream media and advertising.

Her accomplishments contributed to ongoing conversations about representation, diversity, and inclusion within the fashion industry.

Today, many recognize her as part of a generation that helped open doors for future models and entertainers.

Life Away From the Spotlight

In recent years, Toukie Smith has maintained a relatively private lifestyle compared to many celebrities.

While she occasionally appears in discussions about fashion history, television, and her relationship with Robert De Niro, she largely stays away from the constant public attention associated with modern celebrity culture.

This privacy has allowed her legacy to be defined by her professional accomplishments rather than media headlines.

Conclusion

Toukie Smith built an impressive career that spans modeling, acting, and entrepreneurship. While many people recognize her connection to Robert De Niro, her accomplishments stand on their own. From breaking barriers in the fashion industry to earning recognition on television, Smith helped shape conversations about representation and opportunity. Her legacy remains an important part of both fashion and entertainment history, proving that her influence extends far beyond celebrity relationships.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old is Toukie Smith?

Toukie Smith was born on April 25, 1955.

What is Toukie Smith famous for?

She is known for her modeling career, her role on 227, and her relationship with Robert De Niro.

Was Toukie Smith married to Robert De Niro?

No. Although they were long-term partners and had children together, they never married.

Does Toukie Smith have children?

Yes. She and Robert De Niro have twin sons born through surrogacy.

What was Toukie Smith’s role on 227?

She played Eva Rawley, one of the memorable recurring characters on the sitcom.