NEPO | Up To Date

Nepotism is undoubtedly a privilege at the heart of many Hollywood success stories. In today’s film and music culture, how often do we see a truly authentic, fresh-faced star whose fame isn't a result of familial connections?

In 2017, Martin Weigel wrote that the public is drawn to humble success stories because of the “inevitability,” uncertainty, and unlikelihood that we ourselves will lead aspirational lives filled with riches and status. The idea of such power and security is understandably intoxicating, especially considering that nearly half the world’s population (44%) is classified as ‘societally poor.’

One widely cited rags-to-riches story is that of singer Rihanna. Born in Barbados 37 years ago, she grew up in a household marked by poverty, addiction, and educational disruption. Yet today, she is one of the most influential singers and businesswomen of her generation, with a net worth exceeding $1.4 billion. To many, her success feels genuinely earned despite her humble beginnings.

But in 2025, such relatable celebrity narratives are increasingly rare. “Up-and-coming” stars often seem to appear out of nowhere—not by earning their opportunities, but by being handed them.

Despite this, many celebrities seem reluctant to acknowledge the role nepotism and privilege have played in their careers. In November 2022, Lily-Rose Depp, daughter of Johnny Depp, criticized the term nepo baby as “sexist” and degrading.

Depp, in particular, has been central to this conversation since entering the modeling world. At just 5'3", she is considerably shorter than the typical model, who generally stands between 5'9" and 6'1".

Conversely, other stars have openly acknowledged the advantages of growing up in the spotlight. Maya Hawke, daughter of Uma Thurman and Ethan Hawke—who rose to fame through her role in Netflix’s Stranger Things—told Rolling Stone:

“The internet cares a lot more about who your family is than the people who are casting you in things. Maybe you get your foot in the door, but you still just have your foot in the door. There’s a lot of work that comes after that.”

Similarly, Hailey Bieber, daughter of Stephen Baldwin and niece of Alec Baldwin, was photographed in January 2023 wearing a cropped white T-shirt boldly printed with the phrase “Nepo Baby.”

But nepotism in Hollywood doesn’t only apply to those already in the industry. BuzzFeed has argued that individuals born into “social privilege” should also be included in this conversation. These are families whose financial or social influence gives their children a similar “step through the door.”

Take Taylor Swift as an example. Her father was a stockbroker and her mother a marketing executive. In 2005, she signed a deal with Scott Borchetta’s Big Machine Records—shortly after her father reportedly purchased a $120,000 stake in the label.

However, is nepotism limited to the entertainment industry? Absolutely not. It's also evident in political dynasties like the Kennedys and Bushes, as well as in corporate boardrooms and family-run businesses.

Ultimately, nepotism isn’t going anywhere. It’s arguably a fixture of society—and of capitalism itself. As Soni Razdan once said:

“Nepotism is a natural thing that happens in every field.”

While privilege—whether financial or familial—may increase one’s chances of success, not everyone who is privileged possesses the talent or stamina to turn opportunity into longevity.

Yes, some are handed their first break. But, as Maya Hawke pointed out:

“If you do a bad job, the chances will stop.”