In a heartfelt statement reflecting his love for his daughter Airyn De Niro, Hollywood star Robert De Niro has publicly shown his support following her transition journey. During an interview with LGBTQ+ publication Them, Airyn, who recently came out as transgender, shared her feelings about stepping into her new identity. She voiced a desire for increased visibility for transgender individuals, emphasizing the distinction between being visible and truly being seen.
Robert De Niro Champions Daughter’s Right to Transition

Robert De Niro Champions Daughter’s Right to Transition
Hollywood icon De Niro expresses unwavering support for his transgender daughter, Airyn, amid increasing visibility and discussions around transgender rights.
In a statement to Variety, Robert De Niro expressed, “I loved and supported Aaron as my son, and now I love and support Airyn as my daughter.” He further added, “I don’t know what the big deal is. I love all my children.”
Airyn, the daughter of De Niro and actress Toukie Smith, revealed that she began her transition last year, noting the profound impact of role models like Laverne Cox. She highlighted her commitment to honoring her black queer ancestors and enhancing trans visibility in society. Reflecting on her upbringing as one of De Niro's seven children, she stated, “No parent is perfect, but I am grateful that both my parents agreed to keep me out of the limelight. They wanted me to have as much of a normal childhood as possible.”
This support from De Niro comes at a time when transgender rights are under debate, especially in the UK, where recent court rulings have raised questions about gender identity. Nonetheless, De Niro's open affection for Airyn emphasizes a growing acceptance and advocacy for the transgender community, reinforcing the importance of family support during personal transitions.
Airyn, the daughter of De Niro and actress Toukie Smith, revealed that she began her transition last year, noting the profound impact of role models like Laverne Cox. She highlighted her commitment to honoring her black queer ancestors and enhancing trans visibility in society. Reflecting on her upbringing as one of De Niro's seven children, she stated, “No parent is perfect, but I am grateful that both my parents agreed to keep me out of the limelight. They wanted me to have as much of a normal childhood as possible.”
This support from De Niro comes at a time when transgender rights are under debate, especially in the UK, where recent court rulings have raised questions about gender identity. Nonetheless, De Niro's open affection for Airyn emphasizes a growing acceptance and advocacy for the transgender community, reinforcing the importance of family support during personal transitions.