Grace Hightower: The Inspiring Life of Robert De Niro’s Wife
Grace Hightower, born on April 7, 1955, is an American philanthropist, actress, and singer. She is famously known as the wife of the legendary actor Robert De Niro, but she has accomplished great things on her own, too. Born in Kilmichael, Mississippi, she spent her early years in poverty before moving to New York City to pursue her dreams. Hightower’s inspiring life story showcases her remarkable journey from being a struggling actor to becoming a successful entrepreneur and an indomitable force to reckon with in philanthropy circles.
Section 1: Childhood and Early Life
Grace Hightower was born to an African American family in Kilmichael, Mississippi, in 1955. Her parents were sharecroppers, and they struggled to make ends meet. Hightower grew up in poverty and moved to the Bronx in New York City at the age of 14 to live with her mother. She got her high school diploma and attended various colleges, including one in Tanzania, East Africa, before following her passions and entering the entertainment industry.
Section 2: The Journey into Acting
Hightower has always been passionate about acting and performing, and she began her career as a model before transitioning into acting. She appeared in various films and TV shows, including “Precious” and “The Paperboy.” Despite struggling to make it in the acting industry and facing numerous rejections, Hightower never gave up on her dreams.
Section 3: Marriage to Robert De Niro
Hightower met Robert De Niro in 1987, at the famous Mr. Chow restaurant in London. They started dating and later married in 1997. They have two children together, and Hightower is also a stepmother to De Niro’s four other children.
Section 4: Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy
Hightower is an accomplished entrepreneur and philanthropist, driven by a desire to help those in need. She co-founded the Coffee of Grace company, which provides sustainably sourced coffee to the public. She is also the founder of the Grace Hightower & Coffees of Rwanda company, a socially responsible business that helps to empower women coffee farmers in Rwanda. Additionally, she has been involved in several charitable endeavors, including the New York Women’s Foundation.
Section 5: A Strong Advocate for Women’s Rights
Grace Hightower has long been a strong advocate for women’s rights, focusing her philanthropic efforts on empowering women and girls. She believes that women have the power to change the world and has been involved in numerous initiatives aimed at empowering women, girls, and children.
Section 6: Overcoming Adversity
Hightower has faced numerous challenges and setbacks throughout her life, but she remained persistent in her determination to succeed. From growing up in poverty to facing rejections in the entertainment industry, Hightower has proven that determination and perseverance can lead to success in the face of adversity.
Section 7: FAQs
Q1: What is Grace Hightower’s net worth?
Grace Hightower’s net worth is estimated to be around $16 million.
Q2: What is the age difference between Grace Hightower and Robert De Niro?
The age difference between Grace Hightower and Robert De Niro is 20 years.
Q3: How many children does Grace Hightower have with Robert De Niro?
Grace Hightower has two children with Robert De Niro: a son named Elliot and a daughter named Helen.
Q4: What social causes is Grace Hightower involved in?
Grace Hightower is involved in several philanthropic endeavors, including women’s rights, education, and sustainability. She is the founder of the Grace Hightower & Coffees of Rwanda company, which empowers women coffee farmers in Rwanda.
Q5: What movies and TV shows has Grace Hightower appeared in?
Grace Hightower has appeared in several films and TV shows, including “Precious,” “The Paperboy,” “The Super,” and “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.”
Q6: What is the Coffee of Grace company?
The Coffee of Grace company provides sustainably sourced coffee to the public. The company also donates a portion of its profits to charitable organizations.
Q7: What are some of the charities that Grace Hightower supports?
Grace Hightower supports several philanthropic organizations, including the New York Women’s Foundation, the Women Deliver organization, and the Women’s Funding Network.
Conclusion
Grace Hightower is an inspiring figure who has overcome numerous challenges to become a successful entrepreneur, actress, and philanthropist. Her commitment to empowering women, her dedication to philanthropic causes, and her unwavering resilience in the face of adversity make her a role model for young women all over the world. Though she may be best known as Robert De Niro’s wife, Grace Hightower’s own achievements and contributions to society are nothing less than remarkable. Her inspiring story inspires us all to chase our dreams, no matter how difficult or unattainable they may seem.