Robert De Niro Breaks Silence After Split from Wife Grace Hightower

Robert De Niro is speaking out for the first time since it was announced that he and wife of 20 years Grace Hightower had split.

The 75-year-old Oscar-winner released a statement on Tuesday (November 27) confirming the split and asking for some privacy during this difficult time for his family.

“Grace and I have two beautiful children together. We are entering a period of transition in our relationship, which is a difficult but constructive process,” Robert said. “I honor Grace as a wonderful mother and ask for privacy and respect from all as we proceed to develop our roles as partners in parenting.”

Robert and Grace married back in 1997 after more than a decade of dating. The pair are parents to son Elliott, 20, and daughter Helen Grace, 6.