Two-time Oscar winner Robert De Niro has openly and proudly supported his transgender daughter, Airyn, just one day after she came out publicly as a trans woman.
The 81-year-old Hollywood legend made it clear that his love and support for Airyn remain as strong as ever.
In a heartfelt statement to The Hollywood Reporter, De Niro said, “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.”
These simple, powerful words show the softer, more personal side of De Niro, who is best known for his tough, sharp-edged roles in classic films.
Airyn’s journey to living her truth
Airyn, who is now 29, began hormone therapy last year as part of her gender transition. She recently opened up about her experience in an in-depth interview with a popular LGBTQ+ magazine.
In that interview, Airyn shared the emotional struggles she faced before coming out. She described how difficult it was to live in hiding and how much courage it took to finally share her true identity.
“I knew I couldn’t keep pretending,” she said. “I had to be true to myself, no matter how scared I was.”
Her honesty and bravery are already inspiring others in the transgender community.
A family history
De Niro shares Airyn and her twin brother, Julian, with actress Toukie Smith, now 72. The two were together from 1988 to 1996. Although their romantic relationship ended long ago, they have continued to co-parent their children with care and respect.
De Niro is the father of seven children in total. Throughout his life, he has largely kept his family life private. This recent public statement is one of the rare times he has opened up to the media about personal family matters.
Positive reaction from the public
De Niro’s public backing of Airyn has sparked a wave of positive reactions. Fans, celebrities, and LGBTQ+ activists have praised him for his open show of love and acceptance.
On social media, supporters have called De Niro a shining example of what it means to be a loving parent. Many people noted that his support comes at a crucial time when transgender rights are under attack in various parts of the world.
One fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Robert De Niro just showed the world what unconditional love looks like. We need more parents like him.”
A simple but powerful message
For De Niro, the situation seems clear and uncomplicated. His job as a father, he says, is to love and support his children, no matter what.
“I don’t know what the big deal is,” he repeated in his statement a sign that, for him, love and acceptance come naturally.
While debates over gender identity continue to rage in politics and media, De Niro’s statement cuts through the noise. He reminds the world that, at its core, this is about family and love.
Why family support matters
Experts have long said that family support can greatly improve the mental health and well-being of transgender people.
Studies show that transgender individuals who receive love and acceptance from their families are far less likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, and thoughts of self-harm.
In this light, De Niro’s words are not just kind; they are life-affirming. They send a message that can help other families understand the importance of standing by their loved ones.
Airyn’s voice matters
In her recent magazine interview, Airyn explained how hard it was to come out, especially as the child of a famous actor. She feared judgment and rejection but knew she could no longer hide.
“I realized that living as someone I’m not was hurting me,” she said. “I had to make the choice to live as my true self.”
Her openness adds to a growing number of public voices calling for greater understanding and respect for transgender people.
A model for other parents
De Niro’s straightforward message has made him a role model for many other parents. He has shown that loving your child, no matter their gender identity, is not complicated.
His words remind us that even in a world filled with political and social battles over transgender rights, the most important thing is simple human love.
As news of De Niro’s support spreads, it may encourage other famous figures and everyday parents to stand by their transgender children.
In the end, De Niro’s message is clear and strong: love your children, support them, and let them know they matter.
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