Going Public
Airyn De Niro, daughter of Robert De Niro and Toukie Smith, has publicly come out as transgender at 29. In an interview with Them, she revealed the decision was prompted by tabloids discussing her “new look.” “There’s a difference between being visible and being seen,” she said. “I’ve been visible. I don’t think I’ve been seen yet.”

Life in the Shadows
Airyn and her twin brother Julian were kept out of the spotlight during childhood. “Obviously no parent is perfect, but I am grateful… They wanted me to have as much of a normal childhood as possible,” she shared.

Struggles with Identity
Growing up, Airyn felt isolated: “I was always told I was too much of something or not enough of something.” She also faced rejection from the gay community and struggled with self-worth during her early years.

Embracing Her Truth
Though she began femme-presenting in middle school, Airyn only started hormone therapy recently. Inspired by other trans women, she’s hopeful about the future, adding: “Maybe it’s not too late for me.