Hollywood legend Robert De Niro is showing the world what unconditional love looks like. The Oscar-winning actor, 81, is speaking out after his 29-year-old child, Airyn De Niro, publicly came out as a transgender woman.
Airyn De Niro, born in 1995 during Robert’s relationship with actress Toukie Smith, bravely shared her journey in an emotional interview with Them Magazine, revealing she has begun hormone therapy and is now living as her authentic self.
“It just felt right. I feel like I’m meant to be doing this,” Airyn shared, reflecting on the moment she embraced her identity.
Though her father is one of the most recognizable names in film, Airyn largely grew up out of the spotlight — something she credits her parents for. “They wanted me to have as much of a normal childhood as possible,” she said.
Robert De Niro Responds with Pure Love
Following Airyn’s announcement, fans and media outlets quickly turned to the Killers of the Flower Moon star for comment. His response? Pure grace.
“I love and support Airyn as my daughter,” De Niro told People Magazine. “I don’t know what the big deal is. I love all my children.”
His words have struck a chord with many, especially at a time when transgender rights are increasingly under attack in parts of the U.S. — including recent attempts to ban what some lawmakers call “gender ideology.”
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Airyn’s story arrives not just as a personal milestone, but as a symbol of hope for many in the LGBTQ+ community navigating difficult conversations with family.
Airyn’s Inspiring Message
Now studying to become a mental health counselor, Airyn De Niro says she wants to be a voice for those who feel unseen — especially Black, queer, and plus-size women.
“I’d want to hopefully be an inspiration for at least one other person like me who is Black, who is queer, who’s not a size extra small,” she told Them.
“I’d want to see more trans women, more Black women who are maybe bigger-bodied or don’t fit the mold of super thin or heroin chic.”
Her journey began quietly in November 2024, when she started hormone therapy after watching other trans women share their stories online. “Maybe it’s not too late for me,” she said.
CANNES, FRANCE – MAY 21: Robert de Niro attends the “Killers Of The Flower Moon” photocall at the 76th annual Cannes film festival at Palais des Festivals on May 21, 2023 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Stephane Cardinale – Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images)
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As hate speech grows louder in some places, stories like Airyn’s — and her father’s loving acceptance — offer a powerful reminder: unconditional love and support still exist in the public eye.
And for De Niro, it really is that simple: “I love all my children.” ❤️
