Robert De Niro’s daughter, Airyn De Niro, has publicly come out as a transgender woman at the age of 29. In a candid interview with Them magazine, Airyn shared her journey of self-discovery, the challenges she faced, and her aspirations for the future.
Embracing Her True Identity
Airyn De Niro, daughter of actors Robert De Niro and Toukie Smith, revealed that she began hormone therapy in November 2024. She described herself as a “late bloomer,” expressing that witnessing the openness and success of other trans women in public spaces inspired her to embrace her true self. “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 stated.
Navigating Identity and Acceptance
Growing up, Airyn faced challenges related to her identity. She came out as gay during middle school but later realized that this did not fully encompass her true self. She spoke about the pressures of fitting into societal beauty standards and the feeling of being “too much of something or not enough of something.” These experiences contributed to her struggle with acceptance within various communities.
The Influence of Black Women
Airyn emphasized the significant impact that Black women have had on her journey. She credited their strength and visibility as instrumental in helping her embrace her identity as a Black trans woman. “I think a big part of [my transition] is also the influence Black women have had on me,” she noted.
Aspirations and Advocacy
Currently studying to become a mental health counselor, Airyn aims to support marginalized communities, particularly people of color and queer individuals. She also expressed interest in modeling and voice acting, aspiring to succeed on her own merit without relying on her father’s fame. Airyn hopes to be a source of representation and inspiration for queer people of color and larger-bodied individuals.
A Message of Visibility and Hope
Airyn’s decision to come out publicly was influenced by media coverage that discussed her appearance without her consent. She emphasized the importance of being truly seen and understood, not just visible. “There’s a difference between being visible and being seen,” she explained. “I’ve been visible. I don’t think I’ve been seen yet.”
Conclusion
Airyn De Niro’s story is a testament to the courage it takes to live authentically. Her journey sheds light on the complexities of identity and the importance of representation and support for the transgender community. While Airyn did not directly mention her father, Robert De Niro, in the interview, she expressed hope for understanding and support from those close to her. She acknowledged that acceptance is a process and encouraged patience and empathy when navigating relationships during transition. Looking ahead, Airyn aspires to use her platform to advocate for trans rights and visibility, particularly for Black trans women who often face heightened discrimination. Her courage in sharing her story publicly marks a significant step toward broader awareness and representation within both the entertainment industry and society at large.
