Robert De Niro Gave ‘Nonstop’ Support To Daughter Airyn After She Came Out As Trans

Nov 06, 2025 by apost team

In 2025, Robert De Niro’s daughter, Airyn De Niro, opened up about her journey, her identity, and the unwavering love she’s received from her famous father. For years, Airyn had primarily lived outside the Hollywood spotlight, but her decision to speak candidly about her life and transition marked a powerful new chapter.

Born to the acclaimed actor and actress Toukie Smith, Airyn and her twin brother Julian De Niro were raised with a blend of artistic influence and grounded values. In addition to Airyn and Julian, Robert shares seven kids in total, the youngest being Gia De Niro, whom he welcomed with his girlfriend, Tiffany Chen, in April 2023. 

Despite his reputation as one of Hollywood’s toughest performers, those closest to him often describe the actor as soft-spoken, attentive, and profoundly family-oriented. In April 2025, the Oscar winner publicly reaffirmed his love for his daughter, releasing a heartfelt statement that quickly resonated online.

“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,” he said, adding, “I love all my children.”

The simple sincerity of his words struck a chord with fans, especially at a time when conversations about gender identity and parental acceptance remain both urgent and deeply personal.

Beyond her family ties, Airyn has been carving out her own creative space. While she has not directly followed her father into acting, she has embraced music. She revealed in an October 2025 interview with Them: “The only people that have heard me sing are my mom, my dad, my sister and Ariana Grande.” 

Years ago, Airyn met the pop superstar, and the two reconnected while Grande was filming “Focker-in-Law” with Robert and Ben Stiller. Airyn said: “I sent her a little clip of me singing, and she was so kind about it. She really gave me a confidence boost.”

But it’s her reflections on her father’s support that reveal the heart of her story. Airyn shared that the love from her dad “has still been nonstop,” and she’s “so grateful.” She recalled how he once told her:

“You have somebody who loves you for you, and you don’t need to change yourself for anybody.” 

Together, they even attended therapy sessions to talk through her transition, a testament to Robert’s openness and commitment. Airyn recalled:

“He said, ‘There’s no other thing to do than accept your kid for who they are and where they decide to go in life.’” 

She continued:

“He’s very good at being a dad and, not just that, (but also) accepting people from all walks of life.” 

Then, with characteristic humor, she added that at his “ripe old age, he’s not even setting a high bar. It’s just like, that should be the standard.” Through her words, Airyn offers not only a glimpse into her life but also a reminder that empathy, love, and acceptance – the kind her father embodies – are timeless. 

Airyn has also been leaning into her love of alternative fashion and self-expression. She told Them that she’s been embracing her inner Goth – just in time for Halloween – and finding new ways to explore identity through aesthetics. She said:

“Getting to experience worlds, communities, aesthetics, and fashions in a body that you’ve always wanted to be in but weren’t before – it’s very healing for your younger self who couldn’t do that.”

apost.com

Airyn and Robert De Niro’s relationship is truly heartwarming! How do you think open conversations like these inspire more acceptance in the world? Let us know, and then pass this on to someone who could use a reminder that love and understanding should always be the standard!