New York — Airyn De Niro, the 29-year-old daughter of renowned actor Robert De Niro, is publicly embracing her identity as a transgender woman. In her first interview, she revealed her journey, which began with hormone therapy in November 2022, and described how a recent film motivated her to take this crucial step.
De Niro highlighted that seeing Halle Bailey portray Ariel in the 2023 live-action adaptation of “The Little Mermaid” significantly influenced her. The film inspired her to visit a Black hair salon for the first time, symbolizing a broader connection to her identity. “I find that a major aspect of my transition is deeply rooted in the impact that Black women have had on me,” De Niro said, adding that embracing her new identity helps her feel more aligned with the community.
Born Aaron, Airyn articulated how transitioning involves being candid about her journey, especially in the public eye. The visibility of other transgender individuals has bolstered her determination. “Seeing others thrive made me think, ‘Maybe it’s not too late for me,’” she expressed, underscoring her resolve to carve her own path.
Raised away from the limelight by her famous parents, De Niro shared reflections on her unique upbringing. Her father, an Oscar-winning actor with a career spanning over 120 films, and her mother, a model and actress, prioritized providing her with a normal childhood. “They made choices to ensure I had as private a childhood as possible,” she explained, noting that her parents wanted her to find her own way without the burden of their fame.
While she aspires to follow in her mother’s artistic footsteps, Airyn is cautious about the “nepo baby” label. “I believe my success should come from my own efforts,” she stated, emphasizing that she was not raised to expect opportunities solely due to her family connections.
Discussing her struggles with body image, De Niro reflected on societal beauty standards that often left her feeling inadequate. “Growing up, I was frequently told I was either too much of something or not enough of something,” she shared. The pressure to conform to ideals of being thin, muscular, or racially ambiguous weighed heavily on her. She longed for acceptance in her own skin, a sentiment that many in the LGBTQ+ community can relate to.
In sharing her story, Airyn hopes to empower others facing similar challenges. “There’s a difference between being visible and being seen,” she remarked, noting that while she has been open about her identity, she still seeks genuine acknowledgment and understanding from those around her.
As the daughter of a megastar, De Niro is one of seven siblings, which includes her twin brother, Julian, and a diverse mix of siblings from her father’s previous relationships. In her journey of self-discovery, she continues to embrace her roots while aspiring to inspire others through her experiences.