Biography

While pregnant with Antoinette Daria Cassini, her mother Gene Tierney contacted rubella (German measles]. Daria was born prematurely in Washington, D.C., weighing three pounds, two ounces and requiring a total blood transfusion. The rubella had caused genetic damage: Daria was found to be deaf, partially blind with cataracts, and had severe mental retardation. She later was institutionalized for much of her life.

Elder sister of Christina Cassini.

Niece of Igor Cassini.

Daughter of Gene Tierney and Oleg Cassini.