X-Men actor Liev Schreiber is opening up about his unwavering support for his 16-year-old daughter Kai, who recently came out as transgender. In a candid interview with Variety published on May 8, Schreiber reflected on his daughter’s journey and the importance of embracing her identity.
“Kai was always who Kai is,” he shared. “The most profound moment, I suppose, was when she asked us to start using different pronouns. But honestly, it didn’t feel like a huge deal—Kai had been so feminine for so long.”
Now 57, Schreiber spoke with pride about Kai’s courage and resilience, especially as she navigates the public eye as the child of celebrities.
“Kai is such a fighter,” he said. “It’s powerful to watch her stand in her truth and say, ‘Hey, I’m trans,’ and, ‘Look at me.’ That kind of confidence is inspiring.”
Schreiber also acknowledged that his daughter’s experience differs significantly from that of many transgender youth who don’t have access to the same resources or family support. To help bridge that gap, Schreiber, his wife Taylor Neisen, and Kai are supporting the Ali Forney Center, a New York-based nonprofit that provides shelter and services for homeless LGBTQ+ youth.
“This isn’t just about representation,” he emphasized. “This is a community of people who are often rejected, without access to support, and facing some of the harshest realities. Some don’t survive it. They deserve better.”
When asked what advice he would give to parents of trans teens, Schreiber responded with honesty and humor.
“Teenagers are a f–king headache,” he said with a laugh. “It doesn’t matter if they’re trans or not—you’ll come out the other side. But a trans teen is still just a teen, navigating all the same chaos.”
Kai has not only found strength in her identity but is also making waves in the fashion world. Earlier this year, she made her runway debut during Valentino’s March 9 showcase at Paris Fashion Week—an achievement her mother, actress Naomi Watts, proudly celebrated on Instagram.
“That’s my @maisonvalentino baby!” Naomi wrote. “I’m squealing with pride.”
