Robert De Niro’s daughter Airyn comes out as transgender in first-ever interview
Robert De Niros daughter, Airyn De Niro, has publicly come out as a transgender woman in her first-ever interview. Now 29, Airyn who used to be a man, shared that she began hormone therapy in November and revealed the unexpected inspiration behind her transition journey: Halle Baileys portrayal of Ariel in Disneys live-action The Little Mermaid. Speaking with Them, Airyn whom De Niro shares with former partner Toukie Smith described how the film marked a turning point for her. After watching Bailey’s performance, she made her first appointment at a Black hair salon, which she said was a meaningful step toward embracing both her gender identity and her Black heritage. I think a big part of [my transition] is also the influence Black women have had on me, she said. Stepping into this new identity, while also being more proud of my Blackness, makes me feel closer to them in some way.
Born Aaron, Airyn said being a trans woman means living openly, especially in public spaces like social media. She credits the visibility of other trans individuals as a source of courage for her decision to come out. Im like, You know what? Maybe its not too late for me. Maybe I can start, she shared. Airyn reflected on growing up with famous parents who intentionally kept her out of the spotlight. Her father, 81, is one of Hollywoods most celebrated actors, with two Academy Awards and over 120 film credits, including Taxi Driver, The Godfather Part II, and Raging Bull. Her mother, Toukie Smith, 72, is a former model and actress.
Although Airyn expressed an interest in acting and modeling, she said she resists the “nepo baby” label. Obviously, no parent is perfect, but I am grateful that both my parents agreed to keep me out of the limelight. They wanted me to have as much of a normal childhood as possible, she said. I wasnt brought up having a side part in one of dads movies or going to business meetings or attending premieres. My dad was very big on us finding our own sort of path. I would want [success] to happen on my own merit. She also spoke candidly about struggling with body image growing up. I didnt fit the beauty standard, which is thin, white, muscular, or super fit, masculine. I was always told I was too much of something or not enough of something: Too big, not skinny enough. Not Black enough, not white enough. Too feminine, not masculine enough. It was never just, Youre just right, just the way you are. Airyn said she hopes sharing her story will empower others to embrace their identities. Theres a difference between being visible and being seen, she said. Ive been visible. I dont think Ive been seen yet. Airyn is one of Robert De Niros seven children. She has a twin brother, Julian, and five half-siblings: Drena, Raphael, Elliot, Helen, and Gia.