Robert De Niro Expresses Support for His Daughter Airyn After She Comes Out as Transgender

Robert De Niro is sharing nothing but “love and support” for his daughter, Airyn De Niro, after she came out as transgender.

The two-time Oscar winner shared in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, “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 shares Airyn and her twin brother Julian with actress Toukie Smith. The legendary actor also has five other children, including his most recent baby, Gia, whom he welcomed in 2023 with his girlfriend, Tiffany Chen.

Earlier this week, Airyn opened up about her transition during an interview with Them, saying that seeing other successful trans women helped her navigate her personal journey, despite being a self-proclaimed “late bloomer.”

“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 explained. “Maybe I can start.”

Airyn added, “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.”

After the Them story was published, Airyn took to her Instagram Story to share her appreciation for the support she’s received. “Thank you to everyone who’s been so sweet and supportive! I’m not used to all these eyes on me,” she wrote. “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!”