Airyn De Niro, the 29-year-old daughter of legendary actor Robert De Niro, has opened up about the actor’s unconditional support since she came out as transgender earlier this year — describing it as “non-stop” and deeply affirming.
Speaking to Them, Airyn reflected on her transition journey and the vital role her 82-year-old father has played in it.
“The support has still been non-stop from him, and I’m so grateful,” she said.
“I told him I wanted to do some touch-ups just so I can feel more confident. The way he spoke to me was so affirming — he said, ‘You’re a good-looking kid. You don’t need to do anything to change yourself.’”
A Father’s Love, Loud and Clear
Robert De Niro, a two-time Academy Award winner known for roles in Taxi Driver and Goodfellas, publicly voiced his support for Airyn after she came out in May, telling The Hollywood Reporter that he “loves and supports” his daughter wholeheartedly.
According to Airyn, his allyship goes beyond words. She revealed that De Niro even offered to accompany her when she went to access gender-affirming hormone therapy, showing a level of hands-on care that moved her deeply.
“There’s no other thing to do than accept your kid for who they are,” De Niro reportedly said during a group therapy session, when asked how he felt about his daughter’s transition.
“He Just Wants Me to Be Safe”
Airyn also spoke about a recent conversation with her father regarding her interest in gender-affirming surgeries. Although De Niro initially expressed concern, she said he was open to learning more and ultimately expressed support.
“I explained it to him from the perspective of a trans woman who started transitioning late,” she shared.
“He understood and accepted it. He just really wants me to be careful and know what I’m doing. He says I don’t need it, but he supports me if I want to — which is the best thing any trans kid could ask for from their parent.”
A Quiet Role Model for Allyship
Airyn praised her father not just for supporting her but for modelling acceptance more broadly.
“He’s very good at being a dad — and at accepting people from all walks of life,” she said.
Since publicly coming out, Airyn has become a visible figure in the trans community, using her platform to speak openly about late transitions, navigating family dynamics, and the importance of having affirming parents.
