Washington DC [US], May 1 (ANI): Veteran actor Robert De Niro showcased 'love and support' for his daughter Airyn De Niro, after she recently came out as a transgender, reported Variety.

In a statement to Variety, De Niro said, 'I loved and supported Aaron as my son, and now I love and support Airyn as my daughter. I don't know what the big deal is.'

The actor further stated that he loves all his children. 'I love all my children', he added as quoted by Variety.

In a recent sit-down, Airyn De Niro discussed 'stepping into this new identity,' as well as growing up as one of seven children in the De Niro household, reported Variety.

'There's a difference between being visible and being seen,' Airyn De Niro said. 'I've been visible. I don't think I've been seen yet,' added Airyn De Niro as quoted by Variety.

Airyn De Niro also expressed gratitude to her parents for keeping her away from the limelight during her childhood.

'No parent is perfect, but I am grateful that both my parents agreed to keep me out of the limelight. They have told me they wanted me to have as much of a normal childhood as possible,' said Airyn De Niro as quoted by Variety.

In the same interview, Airyn De Niro discussed her inspirations for going public with her transition. Among them was actress Laverne Cox.

'Trans women being honest and open, especially [in] public spaces like social media and getting to see them in their success,' she said. 'I'm like, 'You know what? Maybe it's not too late for me,' as quote dby Variety

After the interview went live, Airyn De Niro took to Instagram to express her gratitude for the support of her fans.

'Thank you to everyone who's been so sweet and supportive! I'm not used to all these eyes on me,' she wrote. 'Also, for the folks asking if I have representation or signed to anyone, I am literally just a girl with a phone, so sorry if I miss your messages!' said De Niro.

Robert De Niro is known for movies like Taxi Driver, Goodfellas and The Irishman. (ANI)