Avielle Janelle Hernandez (born November 6, 2012) is the daughter of late NFL player Aaron Hernandez and his former fiancée Shayanna Jenkins.
Now 13 years old as of 2026, Avielle has grown up in the public eye due to her father’s highly publicized legal case and death in 2017. Despite that difficult backdrop, she has developed her own interests, ambitions, and identity.

Early Life and Special Birthday Connection
Avielle was born on November 6, 2012, sharing a birthday with her father. Aaron Hernandez once described her birth as the “best birthday gift” he ever received.
Her early childhood unfolded during the height of Hernandez’s legal battles, placing her family under intense media scrutiny.

Life After 2017
Following Aaron Hernandez’s death in 2017, Avielle was raised primarily by her mother, Shayanna Jenkins-Hernandez.
Although her father’s case remains widely discussed, her mother has worked to provide a stable upbringing while balancing public attention and privacy.

Avielle’s Interests and Activities
Despite growing up under public scrutiny, Avielle has built an active and well-rounded childhood.
Known Interests:
- Dance: She is an avid dancer and regularly competes and performs in recitals.
- Music: Her mother has shared her love of music.
- Kung Fu: She has explored martial arts training.
- Ice Skating: Another recreational interest she enjoys.
Dance appears to be her most consistent passion, with competition and performance playing a significant role in her activities.
Academic Goals and Aspirations
As of 2024, Avielle entered the 6th grade and reportedly expressed interest in becoming a pulmonologist — a physician specializing in respiratory health.
This ambition reflects a forward-looking mindset focused on academics and career development.

Family and Sibling Relationship
Avielle is also a big sister.
Her younger half-sister:
- Giselle Janelle (born 2018)
- Daughter of Shayanna Jenkins-Hernandez and Dino Guilmette
The two sisters share a close bond and are often seen together in family photos shared by their mother.
Trust Fund and Legal Disputes
After Aaron Hernandez’s death, a trust fund was established for Avielle’s benefit. She is reportedly the sole beneficiary.
However, the trust has been the subject of legal disputes in recent years.
The Controversy:
- A court-appointed trustee, David Schwartz, raised concerns.
- Allegations were made that funds were used for personal expenses.
- Disputed items reportedly included clothing and home decor purchases.
Shayanna Jenkins-Hernandez has denied wrongdoing, and the matter has involved ongoing legal review.
The situation underscores the complexities that can arise when managing trust funds tied to high-profile estates.
Avielle Janelle Hernandez – Key Attributes Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Avielle Janelle Hernandez |
| Date of Birth | November 6, 2012 |
| Age (2026) | 13 years old |
| Parents | Aaron Hernandez & Shayanna Jenkins-Hernandez |
| Birthday Connection | Shares birthday with her father |
| Sibling | Giselle Janelle (born 2018) |
| Main Hobby | Competitive Dance |
| Other Interests | Music, Kung Fu, Ice Skating |
| Career Aspiration | Pulmonologist |
| Trust Fund Status | Sole beneficiary |
Growing Beyond the Headlines
Although her name is often linked to her father’s criminal case, Avielle’s story today centers more on:
- School
- Extracurricular activities
- Personal development
- Family life
As she continues to grow, public focus has gradually shifted toward her interests and future goals rather than past events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How old is Avielle Janelle Hernandez?
As of 2026, she is 13 years old.
When was Avielle Hernandez born?
She was born on November 6, 2012.
Who are Avielle’s parents?
Her parents are Aaron Hernandez and Shayanna Jenkins-Hernandez.
Does Avielle have siblings?
Yes, she has a younger half-sister named Giselle Janelle, born in 2018.
What are Avielle’s hobbies?
She is passionate about dance and also enjoys music, kung fu, and ice skating.
What does Avielle want to be when she grows up?
As of 2024, she expressed interest in becoming a pulmonologist.
What is the trust fund controversy about?
There have been legal disputes between her mother and a court-appointed trustee regarding how trust funds were used.
Is Avielle active on social media?
She does not appear to have public social media accounts; most updates come from her mother.
Conclusion
Avielle Janelle Hernandez’s life began under extraordinary circumstances, but as she enters her teenage years, her identity increasingly reflects her own interests and ambitions rather than her father’s past.
From competitive dance to academic aspirations in medicine, her story is evolving — shaped more by growth and possibility than headlines.