After one of his children came out as transgender, legendary actor Robert De Niro, 81, expressed love and support in a rare public statement. His daughter, Airyn De Niro, 29, came out in a candid interview with Them, revealing her transition and struggles with beauty standards.

“It just felt right,” Airyn said, explaining she began hormone therapy in November 2024 after finding inspiration in other trans women’s openness. Despite being born into Hollywood royalty, Airyn remained largely out of the public eye, a choice she said her parents made to give her a normal childhood.

“They wanted it to be extremely private,” she shared. “No parent is perfect, but I’m thankful.”

When asked about his daughter’s transition, De Niro told People, “I love and support Airyn as my daughter. I don’t see what the big deal is. I love all my kids.”

Airyn, who is studying to become a mental health counselor, hopes to inspire others, especially Black, queer individuals with diverse body types. Her coming out comes at a time of political tension around trans rights in the U.S., but she remains determined to be seen and succeed on her own terms.