Robert De Niro shared powerful words of “love and support” for his daughter, Airyn, after she came out as transgender during an interview with Them published on April 29.
During the sit down, Airyn De Niro talked about growing up as one of De Niro’s seven children, whom he shares with ex-wife Grace Hightower, and how that upbringing has guided her as she “step[s] into this new identity.” “There’s a difference between being visible and being seen,” Airyn clarified. “I’ve been visible. I don’t think I’ve been seen yet.”
Airyn continued: “No parent is perfect, but I am grateful that both my parents agreed to keep me out of the limelight. They have told me they wanted me to have as much of a normal childhood as possible.”
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Following the publication of Airyn’s interview, her father issued a statement to several outlets (including Variety) voicing his unequivocal support. “I loved and supported Aaron as my son, and now I love and support Airyn as my daughter,” the Oscar-winning actor said. “I don’t know what the big deal is,” De Niro added. “I love all my children.”
Airyn said she was inspired to come out after seeing actors such as Laverne Cox go on to achieve success after doing the same. She was inspired by “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,’” Airyn said.
After the interview was published, she took to Instagram to thank her legion of supporters. “Thank you to everyone who’s been so sweet and supportive! I’m not used to all these eyes on me,” she wrote. “Also for the folks asking if I have representation or signed to anyone, I am literally just a girl with a phone, so sorry if I miss your messages!”
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Author: Declan Gallagher