Robert De Niro's child, Airyn, 29, has publicly identified as a transgender female, sharing her journey in the hopes of inspiring queer women of colour.

Previously known as Aaron Kendrick De Niro, Airyn was born on October 20, 1995, alongside her twin, Julian Henry Deon, to Robert De Niro and his former partner, Toukie Smith, during their relationship from 1988 to 1996. In her first interview following the start of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) last November, Airyn expressed that witnessing other trans women being “honest and open” online made her realise it was not “too late” for her to embrace her true self.

HRT plays a significant role in the transition process for many transgender individuals, as it involves administering hormones to help align physical characteristics with one's gender identity.

Speaking to Them magazine, Airyn said she wanted to address her transition publicly for one specific reason: “There's a difference between being visible and being seen. I don't think I've been seen yet.”

Airyn, who came out as a gay man while in high school, said she never felt as though she fit in.

“I was always told I was too much of something or not enough of something growing up: Too big, not skinny enough. Not Black enough, not white enough. Too feminine, not masculine enough. It was never just, ‘You're just right, just the way you are.’

“I think a big part of [my transition] is also the influence Black women have had on me. I think stepping into this new identity, while also being more proud of my Blackness, makes me feel closer to them in some way."

In the interview, Airyn admitted she doesn’t see herself as a 'nepo baby' although she is the daughter of two actors and has grown up surrounded by famous people.

She revealed having had unsuccessful auditions for the video game League of Legends she is now hoping to diversify what transwomen in the public eye look like.

Airyn emphasised the importance of representation, saying: "Trans women being honest and open, especially in public spaces like social media, makes me think I can start my own journey."

Her hope is that by sharing her story, she can inspire others who might feel hesitant or unsure about their own identities.