Cover Arnold Schwarzenegger and Patrick Schwarzenegger at the Los Angeles premiere of ’The White Lotus’ season 3 (Photo: Emma McIntyre/Getty Images)
Arnold Schwarzenegger and Patrick Schwarzenegger at the Los Angeles premiere of ’The White Lotus’ season 3 (Photo: Emma McIntyre/Getty Images)
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Nepo babies or Hollywood legacies? These rising Hollywood actors are making names for themselves—on their own terms
The conversation around “nepo babies,” also known as children of Hollywood elites carving their own paths, has never been more relevant. While some lean in and embrace their famous last names, others work diligently to prove their worth beyond their family's legacy. These emerging talents, each the offspring of an established star, are navigating the industry with a mix of inherited charisma, personal ambition, and sure, sometimes a chip on their shoulder, too.
Here are seven young Hollywood actors rising above the label, determined to establish their legacies.
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Jack Quaid
The son of Meg Ryan and Dennis Quaid, Jack Quaid has steadily built his career, largely outside of his parents’ romantic comedy legacy. Jack Quiad first gained attention in The Hunger Games (2012) before breaking out as Hughie Campbell in Amazon’s The Boys. His work in Oppenheimer (2023) further cemented his reputation as a versatile and compelling actor. His latest film, Companion, has also been well-received by critics and fans.
Patrick Schwarzenegger
With Arnold Schwarzenegger as his father, Patrick Schwarzenegger could have easily been overshadowed by his father’s larger-than-life persona. Instead, he has carved out a niche with roles in The Staircase (2022) and Gen V (2023), demonstrating a range that extends beyond his famous surname. He is in his element in White Lotus season 3, where he plays a baffling airhead gym bro.
Hopper Penn
The son of two powerhouse Hollywood actors, Sean Penn and Robin Wright, Hopper Penn has followed an indie film trajectory rather than blockbuster stardom. He has gained recognition for roles in Devil’s Peak (2023) and Puppy Love (2023), showcasing a raw, unpolished talent that sets him apart from his high-profile lineage.
Scott Eastwood
Carrying the Eastwood name comes with weighty expectations, but Scott Eastwood has taken a steady approach to action and drama. The son of Clint Eastwood, he has appeared in major franchises like Suicide Squad (2016) and The Fate of the Furious (2017), proving his capability in high-stakes, big-budget productions.
Charlie Hall
With Seinfeld and Veep icon Julia Louis-Dreyfus as his mother and writer-producer Brad Hall as his father, Charlie Hall has comedic pedigree to spare. But instead of resting on it, he has carved his own space with roles in The Sex Lives of College Girls and Sweethearts (2024), showing a distinct comedic charm and screen presence.
Maya Hawke
Daughter of Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman, Maya Hawke has been a consistent presence in prestige projects. She became a fan favourite as Robin in Stranger Things before landing roles in Do Revenge (2022) and Maestro (2023), proving she can balance indie credibility with mainstream appeal.
Lewis Pullman
Son of Bill Pullman, Lewis Pullman has been quietly building an impressive résumé. His breakthrough came with Top Gun: Maverick (2022), and his turn in Lessons in Chemistry (2023) reinforced his ability to bring depth and nuance to every role.
These Hollywood actors may have famous surnames, but they seem to be doing everything they can to prove that it's not what defines them. Whether through blockbuster hits, indie films, or prestige television, they show that while Hollywood connections open doors, talent is what keeps you in the room.
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