Airyn, the 29-year-old child of actor Robert De Niro and Toukie Smith, has announced their decision to identify as transgender, a move that has sparked discussion about personal choices and societal trends.
According to Breitbart, previously known as Aaron, Airyn disclosed in a 2024 Them magazine interview that they began hormone treatments in 2024, outlining their choice to pursue a transgender lifestyle.
Born via surrogate to De Niro and Smith, Airyn noted that their parents have supported their privacy, allowing them to make personal decisions without public interference, a stance consistent with traditional family values.
Airyn acknowledged their parents’ efforts to keep them grounded. “My parents did their best to keep me out of the public eye,” they told Them, emphasizing the importance of a private upbringing in a world obsessed with celebrity culture.
Raised away from Hollywood’s influence, Airyn was not involved in De Niro’s films or public life. “My dad wanted us to carve our own paths,” Airyn said, reflecting a belief in self-reliance over exploiting family fame.
Airyn cited struggles with societal pressures, particularly around beauty and gender norms, as influencing their transition. “I was told I didn’t fit in—too much of this, not enough of that,” they said, pointing to cultural expectations that some argue have been amplified by progressive ideologies.
Airyn also highlighted the influence of Black women in their life, crediting them for shaping their connection to heritage and identity, though some might question the necessity of framing personal choices through racial lenses.
Airyn expressed a desire to be publicly visible as a transgender individual. “There’s a difference between being visible and being seen,” they said, aiming to promote their lifestyle while seeking broader recognition, a move that aligns with modern identity politics.
Their openness stems from personal experiences and societal influences, though critics might argue it reflects a broader trend of prioritizing individual expression over collective norms.
One of Robert De Niro’s seven children, Airyn shares a twin, Julian, and has five other siblings. This large family structure, rooted in traditional dynamics, provided a foundation for Airyn’s personal decisions, even as they embrace a non-traditional path.
Airyn’s public announcement aims to live authentically while engaging in debates about identity, though some may see it as contributing to the erosion of established societal standards.
Airyn plans to advocate for gender identity issues, focusing on personal authenticity in public discourse. Their efforts align with progressive causes, which some view as challenging the traditional values that prioritize stability and cohesion.
Airyn’s disclosure underscores their personal journey but also fuels debates about transgender issues and societal change. While family support has been key, their story raises questions about the balance between individual freedom and the preservation of cultural norms.
