Robert De Niro supports daughter Airyn as she comes out as trans: ‘I don’t know what the big deal is’

In a moving and deeply personal revelation, Airyn De Niro, daughter of legendary actor Robert De Niro and model Toukie Smith, has come out publicly as a transgender woman. At 29 years old, Airyn shared her story with grace, courage, and a hope to inspire others walking similar paths.

Her transition began in earnest in November 2024, when she started hormone therapy. For Airyn, the journey toward living authentically has been shaped by the visibility of powerful Black and transgender women in media. She openly credits those role models for giving her the courage to embrace her identity and be a voice for others who may feel unseen.

“I want queer people of color and bigger-bodied people to feel like they can take up space,” she shared. “We all deserve to be seen, not just noticed.”

Airyn’s story has also sparked widespread admiration for her father, Robert De Niro, who responded to her announcement with heartfelt support. “I loved and supported Aaron as my son, and now I love and support Airyn as my daughter,” he said, referencing her former name. “I don’t know what the big deal is. I love all my children.”

De Niro’s simple, yet profound words reflect what so many in the LGBTQ+ community hope to hear from loved ones—unconditional love and unwavering acceptance.

Airyn’s public statement is not only a declaration of her truth but also a celebration of resilience. She made clear that she intends to build her career as a model and actress on her own merits, rather than leaning on the fame of her iconic last name. “I want to create my own identity,” she said. “I want to show people like me that we belong, too.”

Already, her courage has resonated deeply, sparking an outpouring of support from fans and members of the LGBTQ+ community around the world. For many, Airyn’s openness represents a beacon of hope in a world where trans people—especially trans women of color—continue to face disproportionate challenges.

In a time when conversations around gender identity are more important than ever, Airyn De Niro’s story is a reminder of the power of self-discovery, the strength of chosen visibility, and the vital role of unconditional familial love.