Caitlyn Jenner Opens Up: Her Kids Still Call Her “Dad” — A Powerful Reflection on Family, Identity, and Love

In a recent, deeply personal interview, Caitlyn Jenner shared a revelation that has resonated widely: despite her public and transformative gender transition, her children continue to call her “Dad.” Far from seeing this as a complication, Jenner embraces this choice, stating simply, “I’m still Dad, and that will never change.”

The Complexity of Identity and Family Ties

Caitlyn Jenner’s journey—from Olympic champion Bruce Jenner to one of the most prominent transgender icons in the world—has been nothing short of groundbreaking. Since publicly coming out as transgender in 2015, Jenner has faced intense scrutiny, admiration, and criticism. Yet her latest insight into her family life offers a poignant reminder: while individual identity evolves, the fundamental bonds of family endure.

“Family is complicated,” Jenner acknowledged. “But what matters most is love and respect. My children have their own ways of processing things, and this is theirs. I honor it, and I honor them.”

Why “Dad” Still Matters

The fact that Jenner’s children still call her “Dad” is meaningful on many levels. It challenges the conventional notion that labels must strictly follow gender identity, revealing that family roles can transcend terminology.

For Jenner’s children, “Dad” represents more than a word; it’s a symbol of their shared history, protection, and guidance. It’s a term rooted in years of experiences and emotional connections that aren’t easily reshaped by changes in gender expression.

“I’m not offended,” Jenner said. “It’s who I was for them growing up. It’s part of our story. And even now, it’s part of our present.”

Navigating Public and Private Spheres

Caitlyn Jenner’s life is lived largely in the public eye, with every personal detail often subject to media commentary. Discussing such an intimate family dynamic publicly invites empathy but also highlights the challenge many transgender parents face—balancing self-identity with parental roles.

Experts note that Jenner’s openness helps destigmatize transgender parenting by showing that love, not labels, defines parenthood.

“Jenner’s experience sheds light on how families adapt and create new norms that honor everyone’s identity and feelings,” says Dr. Emily Stanton, a family therapist specializing in LGBTQ+ issues. “Her children’s choice to call her ‘Dad’ illustrates that identity within families can be fluid and uniquely defined by those involved.”

Broader Cultural Conversations

Jenner’s remarks come amid ongoing societal debates about gender, identity, and family roles. As more individuals embrace non-binary and transgender identities, families are discovering new ways to communicate and connect.

Traditional expectations about fathers and mothers are shifting, yet the emotional essence of those roles—support, protection, love—remains constant.

In many ways, Jenner’s family story is emblematic of larger cultural changes. It challenges people to reconsider what “family” means and how flexible those definitions can be.

The Emotional Impact on Jenner’s Children

While Jenner has publicly embraced her children’s use of “Dad,” the impact on her kids is complex and personal. In interviews and public appearances, she has stressed the importance of their feelings and experiences.

“Every child handles this differently,” Jenner explained. “It’s a process, not a moment. My hope is that my kids feel loved and supported no matter what names or labels they use.”

This sensitive approach shows a commitment to her children’s well-being over public perceptions or rigid social norms.

The Role of Visibility and Representation

Caitlyn Jenner’s visibility as a transgender parent is a powerful example for many families navigating similar journeys. Her honesty helps normalize transgender identities within family contexts, encouraging broader acceptance.

Representation matters, especially for young people grappling with identity. Jenner’s story offers hope that it is possible to maintain strong family bonds even as individual members evolve and grow.

A Legacy Beyond Labels

From Olympic gold medals to headline-making gender transition, Caitlyn Jenner’s life is marked by transformation and resilience. But perhaps her most enduring legacy will be the example she sets as a parent who prioritizes love over labels.

As Jenner herself put it: “At the end of the day, I’m a parent. I’m their Dad. And that’s what counts.”