Hollywood star Robert De Niro is publicly expressing his unwavering support for his daughter Airyn De Niro, who recently came out as transgender. In a heartfelt statement to Deadline, the two-time Academy Award winner said, "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 declaration comes after Airyn, 29, opened up about her transition in an interview with the LGBTQ+ publication Them.
In her candid discussion, Airyn shared her journey of self-discovery and the challenges that have come with it. She noted, "There’s a difference between being visible and being seen. I’ve been visible. I don’t think I’ve been seen yet." This sentiment reflects her struggle with identity and acceptance, not just from the world but within herself.
Airyn, who is the daughter of De Niro and actress Toukie Smith, has a twin brother named Julian. She revealed that her parents prioritized keeping her out of the limelight during her formative years, allowing her to experience a relatively normal childhood. "No parent is perfect, but I am grateful that both my parents agreed to keep me out of the limelight. They have told me they wanted me to have as much of a normal childhood as possible," she said.
As she navigates her new identity, Airyn has found inspiration in other transgender women, particularly actress Laverne Cox. "Trans women being honest and open, especially [in] public spaces like social media and getting to see them in their success… I’m like, you know what? Maybe it’s not too late for me," she stated, highlighting the importance of representation in media.
Following the publication of her interview, Airyn took to Instagram to thank her supporters, saying, "Thank you to everyone who’s been so sweet and supportive! I’m not used to all these eyes on me." She also clarified her current status, saying, "Also for the folks asking if I have representation or signed to anyone. I am literally just a girl with a phone, so sorry if I miss your messages!"
Airyn's journey to embrace her true self comes after a long period of grappling with her identity. She shared her experiences with body dysmorphia, revealing that she often felt inadequate in various aspects of her life. "I was always told I was too much of something or not enough of something growing up: Too big, not skinny enough. Not Black enough, not white enough. Too feminine, not masculine enough. It was never just, ‘You’re just right, just the way you are,’" she explained.
In November 2024, Airyn began hormone therapy, marking a significant step in her transition process. She expressed her hope that by sharing her story, she could help others who might be struggling with similar issues. "I think a big part of [my transition] is also the influence Black women have had on me. I think stepping into this new identity, while also being more proud of my Blackness, makes me feel closer to them in some way," she noted.
Airyn's public revelation comes at a time when discussions surrounding transgender rights and visibility are more critical than ever. In the UK, for instance, a recent Supreme Court ruling has reignited debates about the definition of womanhood in legal contexts, emphasizing the ongoing challenges faced by transgender individuals.
Despite these societal hurdles, Airyn remains optimistic about her future and the potential for broader acceptance within society. She hopes to honor her black queer ancestors and contribute to expanding trans visibility, stating, "I want to help create a world where everyone feels seen and valued for who they are."
Robert De Niro's supportive stance is a significant endorsement, especially in an industry that has historically been scrutinized for its treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals. His message of love and acceptance serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of familial support in the journey of self-acceptance.
As Airyn continues to navigate her new identity, she remains focused on her aspirations as an actress. She has expressed a desire to carve out her own path in the entertainment industry, separate from the legacy of her famous father. "I would want [success] to happen on my own merit," she affirmed.
Airyn De Niro's story is one of courage and resilience, showcasing the importance of authenticity and the power of support from loved ones. As she steps into her new identity, her journey serves as an inspiration for many, reminding us all that it's never too late to embrace who we truly are.
