In a recent interview with Variety, actor Liev Schreiber opened up about his relationship with his 16-year-old trans daughter, Kai. Schreiber, who shares Kai and a son, Sasha, with ex-wife Naomi Watts, expressed his unwavering love and support for his daughter as she navigates her identity. He emphasized that Kai never formally came out as trans to him or her mother, stating, “Kai was always who Kai is.” This sentiment reflects a growing understanding among parents regarding the fluidity of gender identity and the importance of acceptance.
Understanding the journey of a trans youth
Schreiber recalled a pivotal moment when Kai requested a change in her pronouns, a request that he embraced without hesitation. He remarked, “To be honest with you, it didn’t feel like that big of a deal to me, only because Kai had been so feminine for so long.” This highlights a crucial aspect of parenting in the LGBTQ community: the need for open dialogue and acceptance. Kai’s recent modeling debut for Valentino and her participation in an ad campaign signify her growing presence in the fashion world, showcasing the potential for trans individuals to thrive in various fields.
Addressing the challenges faced by the trans community
While Schreiber acknowledges the privilege that comes with his daughter’s background, he is acutely aware of the broader challenges faced by many in the trans community. He stated, “This isn’t just about representing the trans community. This is actually a community of people who don’t have great resources, who don’t have access to help, who aren’t being protected and looked after by their families.” His words resonate deeply, emphasizing the urgent need for societal support and understanding for marginalized individuals.
Advice for parents of trans youth
When asked about his advice for other parents of trans children, Schreiber candidly admitted, “I don’t know the answer for your kid.” He acknowledged the complexities of parenting a trans teen, noting that adolescence is challenging regardless of gender identity. He humorously added, “Teenagers are a headache, they’re hard. It doesn’t matter whether they’re trans or not because you’ll come out of this.” This lighthearted yet poignant perspective serves as a reminder that every parent faces unique challenges, and empathy is key.
Schreiber’s support for Kai stands in stark contrast to other public figures who have not been as accepting. His commitment to advocating for the trans community, particularly through events like the Ali Forney Center’s A Place at the Table Gala, underscores the importance of community support for homeless LGBTQ youth. As he stated, “Kai is such a fighter. It’s important that she goes, ‘Hey, I am trans,’ and, ‘Look at me.’” This declaration not only empowers Kai but also inspires others to embrace their identities.
