Hollywood veteran Robert De Niro has disclosed his fundamental approach to raising his seven children following his daughter Airyn’s public announcement of her transgender identity.
De Niro’s children span a wide age range, with his oldest being 57 years old while his youngest daughter Gia is only two years old.
Recently, his 29-year-old daughter Airyn publicly shared her transgender identity. In a heartfelt interview with a magazine, she described how embracing her feminine presentation felt authentic and correct.
Airyn explained her feelings about her transition: “I feel like I’m meant to be doing this.”
She also addressed a media report that misidentified her and used outdated terminology, stating: “Not only did they get information wrong about me… They just sort of reminded me that people really don’t know anything about me.”
This particular article unexpectedly thrust Airyn into public attention after she had previously maintained a largely private existence.
Reflecting on her upbringing, she expressed gratitude: “I am grateful that both my parents agreed to keep me out of the limelight. They wanted it very private. They have told me they wanted me to have as much of a normal childhood as possible.”
Although Airyn had concerns about her family’s reaction to her transition, her renowned father has demonstrated unwavering support.
De Niro stated: “I love and support Airyn as my daughter. I don’t know what the big deal is. I love all my children.”
The accomplished actor has now elaborated on his parenting philosophy in greater detail.
Speaking to Entertainment Tonight, the father of seven explained: “The main thing is to support your kids. As long as they’re not hurting themselves, doing anything destructive or anything like that, you have to support them — period.”
The actor continued: “They have to know that you support them. Always.”
De Niro also offered rare comments about his youngest daughter Gia, whom he shares with his partner Tiffany Chen, age 46.
“She’s just pure joy,” he said about his two-year-old. “She’s two now, so as they get older and older then… you know? But it’s always wonderful. Pure joy, what can I say?”
According to reports, Chen and De Niro first met while working on his 2015 film The Intern, which also starred Anne Hathaway.
In 2021, the couple was photographed vacationing together in France and sharing an intimate moment, seemingly confirming their romantic relationship.
By 2023, they quietly welcomed daughter Gia, who became De Niro’s seventh child.