Did Robert De Niro’s Daughter Just Come Out as Transgender?
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Synopsis
In a heartfelt revelation, Airyn De Niro, daughter of Hollywood legend Robert De Niro, shares her journey of coming out as a trans woman. Discover how her identity and pride in her Blackness intertwine as she navigates family dynamics and the pursuit of a career in the arts.
Key Takeaways
- Airyn De Niro is embracing her identity as a trans woman.
- She began hormone therapy in November 2024.
- Airyn's journey is influenced by the experiences of Black women.
- She aims to inspire others through her career in acting and modeling.
- Airyn emphasizes the importance of being truly seen, beyond just visibility.
Los Angeles, April 30 (NationPress) Hollywood icon Robert De Niro’s daughter Airyn De Niro has opened up about her journey in embracing her identity as a trans woman.
In an interview with Them published on Tuesday, the 29-year-old, who identifies with she/her pronouns, shared, “A significant aspect of (my transition) is the impact that Black women have had on my life.”
Airyn, formerly known as Aaron, expressed, “Embracing this new identity while also taking pride in my Blackness brings me closer to them in a unique way.”
Born to De Niro and actress Toukie Smith, Airyn began hormone therapy in November 2024 and described herself as a “late bloomer.”
She noted that observing other trans women share their stories of triumph inspired her to understand that it was “not too late” for her to embark on her own journey.
Regarding her family's response to her coming out, Airyn mentioned that they embraced her “queerness” when she initially identified as a gay man in high school.
Nonetheless, she harbors concerns about being perceived as the same individual she was before her transition.
Airyn has consistently grappled with her body image, feeling like the “bigger-bodied person” in a family of “thin or fit” individuals.
“I felt like I stood out and there was no one in my family who could relate to that. Growing up, I was often told I was too much of something or not enough of something else: too big, not skinny enough, not Black enough, not white enough, too feminine, not masculine enough,” Airyn reflected.
She emphasized the distinction between being visible and being truly seen, stating, “I’ve been visible. I don’t believe I’ve been seen yet.”
Airyn is also pursuing a career in acting and modeling, inspired by her mother, aiming to be a beacon for others like her who are Black, queer, and don’t conform to traditional body standards.
“I want to see more trans women and more Black women who are perhaps bigger-bodied or don’t fit the mold of super thin or heroin chic,” she said.
Robert, 81, welcomed Airyn and her twin brother, Julian Henry De Niro, with then-girlfriend Smith, 72, in 1995.
Point of View
I believe Airyn De Niro's story is a testament to the evolving conversation around gender identity and the importance of acceptance. Her candid reflections highlight the struggles many face in their journey toward authenticity, making her experience both relatable and impactful.
NationPress
24/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Airyn De Niro to come out as transgender?
Airyn De Niro felt inspired by the experiences of other trans women, realizing it was 'not too late' for her to embrace her true identity.
How did her family react to her transition?
Airyn's family accepted her 'queerness' when she initially came out as a gay man, though she still worries about being seen as her previous self.
What challenges has Airyn faced regarding body image?
Airyn has always felt like the 'bigger-bodied person' in her family, struggling with societal expectations and her own self-perception.
What does Airyn aim to achieve in her career?
Airyn hopes to inspire others by pursuing a career in acting and modeling, especially those who identify as Black and queer.
What message does Airyn want to convey to others?
Airyn advocates for more visibility and representation of diverse body types and identities in the media.
