Robert De Niro Publicly Supports Daughter Airyn After Her Coming Out as Transgender
Hollywood legend Robert De Niro has offered heartfelt support to his daughter, Airyn De Niro, following her public coming out as transgender. His statement, filled with unconditional love, is a powerful symbol of parental acceptance in a time when trans visibility matters more than ever.
“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.”
Airyn, one of De Niro’s seven children and the daughter of actress Toukie Smith, recently opened up in an interview with Them, shedding light on her experience growing up away from Hollywood's spotlight.
“There’s a difference between being visible and being seen,” she shared. “I’ve been visible. I don’t think I’ve been seen yet.”
Alongside her twin brother Julian, Airyn was raised out of the public eye—a conscious decision by her parents to provide a sense of normalcy.
“No parent is perfect, but I’m grateful they wanted me to have a normal childhood.”
After the interview was published, Airyn received an overwhelming wave of support. She addressed her followers on Instagram, thanking them for their kindness:
“Thank you to everyone who’s been so sweet and supportive! I’m not used to all these eyes on me.”
She also clarified:
“For those asking if I have representation—I’m literally just a girl with a phone. So sorry if I miss your messages.”
Airyn highlighted the importance of representation, naming actress and activist Laverne Cox as a source of inspiration.
“Seeing trans women being honest and successful in public spaces made me think—maybe it’s not too late for me.”
This moment is more than personal—it’s a reflection of a cultural evolution. In an era of increasing trans representation, Airyn’s story adds a powerful narrative of truth, identity, and familial love.
With her father's support and her own courage, Airyn steps into the spotlight not as a celebrity’s child, but as a voice for others who deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated.