Toukie Smith, who was most well known for her roles in Miami Vice and 227, has died at the age of 74. As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, she died after a "long and courageous battle with multiple sclerosis".
Her children, Airyn and Julian, said in a statement that their mom "shared in a remarkable family legacy that helped shape American fashion and culture". She got her start in a modelling career, having attended the Fashion Institute of Technology.
The actor was also well known for having modelled for several high profile fashion companies. She appeared on magazines like Vogue, Ebony, Cosmopolitan, Redbook, and Seventeen, as well as a photo campaign for Yves Saint Laurent.
They also said her "beauty, grace and unmistakable presence helped pave the way for generations of Black models and designers in fashion."
They added, "Toukie was a force of nature. She left an indelible mark on our hearts and on everyone lucky enough to know her."
Smith shared her two children with Robert De Niro, whom she was with from 1988-1996.
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She Was Most Well Known for Her Role as an Actor
However, Smith was most well known for her role as an actor.
She started her foray in the acting world in 1987, joining the world of Miami Vice. She appeared on the show as Angie, who was the assistant to pop singer Caitlin Davies (Sheena Easton). Her appearance lasted for three episodes in its fourth season.
But she was most well known for her role in 227. There, she starred as Eva, an artist who moved into the Lexington Place building. She stayed in the role for the show's two final seasons - with her character also managing the building for some time in her role.
She also appeared in numerous movies in her time as an actor. These included Talkin' Dirty After Dark, I Like It Like That, Joe's Apartment, and The Preacher's Wife.
This is a huge loss for the acting and fashion community. Her talents were widespread, and she was loved by many. May she rest in peace: our thoughts and prayers go out to all who knew her.
