Renowned American actor Robert De Niro has publicly supported his transgender daughter, Airyn, a day after she came out as a trans woman.
The Hollywood legend has insisted that he “loves and supports” Airyn, who is one of his seven children.
In a statement to Hollywood Reporter, the 81-year-old said: “I loved and supported Aaron as my son, and now I love and support Airyn as my daughter.
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“I don’t know what the big deal is … I love all my children.”
Airyn, who is currently 29 years old, began hormone therapy last year.
De Niro shares Airyn and her twin brother Julian with actress Toukie Smith, 72.
The pair dated from 1988 to 1996.
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De Niro’s public backing follows an extensive interview that Airyn granted about her coming out journey to a prominent gay, lesbian, and trans magazine.
Airyn Talks About Trans Journey
The Goodfellas actor’s trans daughter, 29, noted how she began to transition last year because, as a transgender women, “there’s a difference between being visible and being seen.
“I’ve been visible. I don’t think I’ve been seen yet.”
Airyn, daughter of De Niro and Toukie Smith, also said the actress Laverne Cox had been an inspiration and that she now hoped to help expand trans visibility and to honour her black queer ancestors.
“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.”
And with regard to the experience of being one of seven De Niro children, she went on to say that “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.”
