In a heartwarming embrace of familial love, Robert De Niro, acclaimed actor and filmmaker, has shown his unwavering support for his daughter Airyn following her recent transition. In an interview with LGBTQ+ outlet Them, Airyn, who was previously known as Aaron, discussed her journey of "stepping into this new identity."
De Niro conveyed his feelings in a statement to Variety, saying, "I loved and supported Aaron as my son, and now I love and support Airyn as my daughter." He expressed incredulity at what he sees as the fuss surrounding his daughter's transition, adding, "I don’t know what the big deal is. I love all my children."
Airyn De Niro, now 29, began her transition last year and highlighted the distinction between being "visible" and "being seen" in her experience as a transgender woman. "I've been visible. I don't think I've been seen yet," she remarked. She cited actress Laverne Cox as a significant source of inspiration, stating her intention to enhance transgender visibility and honor her black queer ancestry.
Reflecting on her upbringing, Airyn mentioned gratitude for her parents' decision to shield her from the spotlight. She acknowledged, “No parent is perfect, but I am grateful that both my parents agreed to keep me out of the limelight,” emphasizing their desire for her to enjoy a regular childhood.
In the UK, discussions on transgender rights have gained traction, especially following a recent Supreme Court ruling that established a biological sex definition for women under equalities law. The only transgender judge in the UK is preparing to challenge this ruling at the European Court of Human Rights, claiming it infringes on her rights. Despite the ruling, Judge Lord Hodge noted that protections against discrimination for transgender individuals remain intact.
With her father’s support and growing visibility, Airyn De Niro is carving out her path as a transgender advocate in a society that continues to grapple with the complexities of gender identity.
