Robert De Niro Affirms Support for Transgender Daughter Airyn: ‘I Love All My Children’

Hollywood icon Robert De Niro has voiced his full support for his daughter Airyn, who recently came out as a transgender woman. In a heartfelt statement, the 80-year-old actor 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.”

De Niro made the comment in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter following Airyn’s public coming out earlier this week. She is one of De Niro’s seven children and has a twin brother, Julian, both from his previous relationship with actor Toukie Smith.

In an interview with Them magazine, Airyn opened up about her journey and the challenges of growing up in the public eye. She credited the visibility of successful trans women and the influence of Black women in her life as major sources of inspiration.

Also Read: Robert De Niro’s Daughter Airyn Comes Out as Trans: “I Don’t Think I’ve Been Seen Yet”

“Trans women being honest and open, especially in public spaces like social media... I’m like, you know what? Maybe it’s not too late for me. Maybe I can start,” she said. “Stepping into this new identity, while also being more proud of my Blackness, makes me feel closer to [Black women] in some way.”

Airyn’s decision to share her story publicly has been met with widespread support online. De Niro, known for his fiercely private nature, has rarely spoken about his family in the media, making this public affirmation especially significant.

The Oscar-winning actor became a father for the seventh time in 2023, welcoming daughter Gia with his girlfriend, martial arts instructor Tiffany Chen.

Also Read: Robert De Niro to be Honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award at Cannes