Liev Schreiber has opened up about his daughter Kai, 16, for the first time since she proudly came out as transgender. In an interview with Variety published on Thursday, May 8, 2025, Schreiber shared his thoughts on Kai’s journey, stating, "Kai was always who Kai is. But I suppose the most profound moment was her asking us to change her pronouns." This heartfelt revelation comes just before Schreiber is set to attend the Ali Forney Center’s A Place at the Table Gala on Friday, May 9, in New York City, a nonprofit that supports homeless LGBTQ+ youth.
Schreiber, who shares Kai with ex-partner Naomi Watts, described the importance of the event, which provides housing and resources to over 2,200 homeless members of the LGBTQ+ community. He emphasized that while his daughter may not face the same struggles as those seeking refuge, their story is part of a larger narrative that needs attention. "This isn’t just about representing the trans community," he said. "This is actually a community of people who don’t have great resources, who don’t have access to help, who aren’t being protected and looked after by their families."
At just 16, Kai made her runway debut as a model for Valentino during Paris Fashion Week, showcasing her confidence and talent. Schreiber expressed pride in his daughter’s accomplishments, saying, "Kai is such a fighter. It’s important that she goes, ‘Hey, I am trans,’ and, ‘Look at me,’ and, ‘F you. F off.’" This bold statement reflects Kai’s determination to embrace her identity and challenge societal norms.
Liev Schreiber, known for his roles in films like Spotlight and Scream, also discussed the challenges of parenting a transgender child. He acknowledged that he doesn’t have all the answers for other parents navigating similar situations. "I don’t know the answer for your kid," he explained. "I don’t know what it’s like for you to be a trans dad. I don’t know how you were brought up. I don’t know what religion you encountered or what your spirituality is."
Despite the complexities of raising a trans teen, Schreiber offered a humorous take on the typical teenage experience, stating, "Teenagers are a f***ing headache. They’re hard. It doesn’t matter whether they’re trans or not because you’ll come out of this. But a trans teen is going to be a teen. They’re such a pain in the ass so much of the time, and Kai is as feisty and outspoken as they come." This candidness highlights the universal challenges of parenting, regardless of a child's gender identity.
In light of the recent political climate and renewed attacks against the trans community, Schreiber remains hopeful. "I don’t like to dwell on it too much," he said, referring to the anxiety surrounding trans rights. "To some degree, I feel like I don’t want to overcook that fear or that anxiety. There’s enough in the world to be anxious and afraid about." This perspective reflects a desire to focus on positive change rather than succumbing to fear.
Schreiber is not alone in his support for his transgender child. Hollywood legend Robert De Niro also publicly expressed love for his daughter, Airyn, after she came out as trans in April 2025. De Niro stated, "I loved and supported Aaron as my son, and now I love and support Airyn as my daughter. I don’t know what the big deal is. I love all my children." This sentiment echoes the growing acceptance and understanding among public figures regarding transgender identities.
As Kai continues to break barriers in the fashion industry and beyond, her journey serves as an inspiration for many. The visibility of young transgender individuals like her is crucial in fostering a more inclusive society. Schreiber’s advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community, combined with his personal experiences as a father, highlights the importance of love and acceptance in the face of adversity.
In a world where many LGBTQ+ youth face rejection and hardship, Schreiber’s commitment to supporting Kai and raising awareness about the struggles of the community is commendable. He urges others to remember the harsh realities that many trans individuals endure. "These are people who are being rejected. These are people who are experiencing the harshest version of humanity that we can offer, and some of them are not surviving it," he said. This call to action reminds us all to be mindful of the struggles faced by marginalized communities.
As the conversation around transgender rights continues to evolve, Schreiber’s insights and experiences contribute to a broader understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by transgender individuals and their families. His willingness to share these moments, both joyful and challenging, sheds light on the importance of visibility and representation in the media.
With Kai’s growing influence as a model and advocate, the future looks bright for both her and her father. As they navigate the complexities of identity and acceptance together, they serve as a beacon of hope for many in the LGBTQ+ community. Their story is a reminder that love, understanding, and support can make all the difference in the lives of those who are often marginalized.
As we celebrate Kai’s achievements and Schreiber’s dedication to advocacy, it’s essential to continue pushing for a world where all individuals, regardless of their gender identity, can thrive and be accepted for who they are. The journey is ongoing, but with voices like Schreiber’s and the resilience of young individuals like Kai, there is hope for a more inclusive future.
