Movies

Meet the Anti-Nepo Babies

BBG News

Over the past few years, there has been a surge of individuals often referred to as “nepotism offspring” or “nepo babies” in Hollywood, leveraging their family connections and parental fame to establish high-profile careers of their own.

Here are some examples of young actors who follow in the footsteps of their famous parents, such as Maya Hawke (Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman’s daughter), Lily-Rose Depp (Johnny Depp and Vanessa Paradis’ daughter), and Jack Quaid (Dennis Quaid and Meg Ryan’s son). These are just a few of many.

Recently, it was in the news that actor Ben Affleck’s older children, Violet (age 19) and Fin (age 16), are employed in typical jobs, even though both he and his ex-wife Jennifer Garner have had illustrious careers in Hollywood.

52-year-old actor, along with his ex-wife Jennifer Garner, co-parents 13-year-old Samuel. Recently, the teenager made headlines for requesting a pair of Dior Air Jordan 1 sneakers valued at $6K from his wealthy father, Affleck – a request that was declined by him.

There are numerous children of famous celebrities who have carved out remarkably ordinary lives away from the spotlight – such as Arnold Schwarzenegger’s son Joseph Baena, who is a realtor, Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman’s daughter Bella, who is an artist, and Bruce Springsteen and Patti Scialfa’s son Samuel, who serves as a firefighter.

Now, DailyMail.com lists the top 10 Anti-Nepo babies…

JOSEPH BAENA – Son of Arnold Schwarzenegger

Occupation: Real Estate Agent

In 2011, Joseph Banea, who is now 27 years old, found himself under the public eye when it became known that he was the son of Arnold Schwarzenegger, aged 77, and his one-time housekeeper Mildred Patricia “Patty” Peña.

Initially, it appeared as though he was attempting to emulate his father’s renown, by starring in the 2016 remake of Terminator 2, portraying his father’s legendary Terminator role.

Additionally, it appeared he had a strong interest in continuing Arnold’s legacy within bodybuilding, often seen at the renowned Gold’s Gym in Venice, and occasionally participating in fitness modeling.

In 2022, towering dancer Baena made an appearance on ABC’s Dancing With the Stars, partnered with Daniella Karagach. However, their journey ended in 11th position.

Or, more casually:
In 2022, the tall dance pro, Baena, competed on Dancing With the Stars alongside Daniella Karagach. Unfortunately, they got eliminated in 11th place.

In addition to his passion for fitness and acting, Baena has also completed his education, earning a business degree from Pepperdine University in the year 2019.

he obtained his college degree and then successfully entered the real estate industry by passing the required state exams, securing him a California Real Estate License in the year 2022.

Jaime Baena, who boasts multiple skills, is connected with Aria Properties. He has a distinct Instagram account, @jb.properties, dedicated solely to his real estate transactions. This includes the sale of a Santa Monica condo for $1.365 million that took place in November 2024.

Despite his ongoing acting roles in three movies currently underway – notably “Dog Patrol” set for release on September 26, 2025, with Cuba Gooding Jr. – Baena finds ease and tranquility just as effortlessly outside the limelight.

MERCY JAMES – Daughter of Madonna

Occupation: Makeup Artist Assistant

Although Lourdes, Madonna’s best-known child, has ventured into the limelight as a model and musician like her mom, Mercy James, who is 19 years old, hasn’t chosen to do so yet.

In May 2009, the 66-year-old artist initially sought to adopt Chifundo “Mercy” James from Malawi, but the country declined her application since Madonna was not a resident of Africa at that time.

In June of 2009, a month after I’d given my application another go, I was officially welcomed into the role of mother to my beautiful daughter, a talented makeup artist assistant who prefers to work behind the scenes.

Additionally, she delves into various artistic ventures, as Madonna referred to her as “a gifted musician, a skilled photographer, and quite sensibly, one of my mature children,” in a social media tribute on her 19th birthday in January.

You’re the go-to person for guidance and comfort, a beacon of support for many. Your presence holds a unique significance in the hearts of those who know you, and I, in particular, feel this strongly. (Madonna included)

Despite the lack of information about whom she is employed by, her Instagram account showcases photos taken in London, Greece, and Tokyo during the past year.

Additionally, she is actively involved with her mother’s charity organization, Raising Malawi, which includes a hospital back home called The Mercy James Centre, named after her.

It isn’t certain yet whether Mercy James intends to pursue her singing aspirations professionally, much like her mother did.

SURI CRUISE – Daughter of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes

Occupation: College Student

Born into fame at birth, Suri gained widespread recognition in April 2006 as daughter to Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes. Despite this, she appears to prefer staying away from the public eye.

Born into a public eye, she was their sole offspring, Cruise and Holmes, whose marriage spanned from 2006 to 2012. Essentially, she spent most of her childhood years under the glare of the limelight.

As a lifestyle guide, I’d say, from my personal journey, I’ve found myself exploring various creative avenues much like numerous individuals who’ve been fortunate enough to grow up with opportunities within their family circles.

In various high school productions, Suri took on leading parts such as playing Morticia Addams in “The Addams Family: A New Musical.

Apart from that, she had her first professional singing appearance as well, crooning a rendition of “Blue Moon” during the introductory credits of her mother’s 2022 movie “Alone Together,” where Katie acted and took the director’s chair.

Presently, Suri attends Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh as a first-year student, majoring in the esteemed School of Drama.

It hasn’t been revealed yet what field Katie’s major is in, but she did share with Town and Country that Suri intends to pursue a career in acting and dancing.

If she chooses to become an actress, it appears she intends to shape her own journey by furthering her education independently.

BELLA KIDMAN CRUISE – Daughter of Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman

Occupation: Artist

Tom Cruise’s oldest child – 32-year-old daughter Bella – has shied away from the spotlight as well.

In December 1992, Tom and his wife at the time, Nicole Kidman, gave birth to their daughter, Bella. Even with the immense celebrity status of her parents, Bella has seldom ventured into the limelight.

Both Cruise and Kidman have shown great respect for their privacy. In fact, Kidman expressed in 2018, “I keep a low profile when it comes to personal matters. I need to safeguard all my relationships. I am absolutely certain that I would sacrifice my life for my children as it’s what gives my life purpose.

Despite her parents’ ongoing success in major films and television productions, Bella has discovered her passion in the art world.

Bella Kidman Cruise personally manages her own website, BellaKidmanCruise.com, which serves as an online store for her artwork, including art prints, t-shirts, pins, and tote bags.

Bella does indeed possess a verified Instagram account boasting more than 56,000 followers. However, it has been almost a year since her last post, which was in early July of 2024.

Despite Bella not appearing to venture into acting like her parents, she did take after her father Tom in joining Scientology.

In a 2019 letter, she expressed that Scientology was the ideal choice for her as she underwent training to become an auditor.

RUBY GUEST – Daughter of Jamie Lee Curtis and Christopher Guest

Occupation: Video Editor

Jamie Lee Curtis and her spouse, Christopher Guest, welcomed two daughters into their family: Annie, born in 1986, and Ruby, who joined them in 1996. While Annie has been more publicly visible, Ruby tends to prefer a less prominent role.

In 2021, Ruby gained attention as she publicly identified as transgender. Both her parents expressed their full support for this choice.

In 2021, Jamie Lee openly stated, “I’m embarking on a journey of learning a new tongue. I’m grasping fresh terms and vocabulary. Frankly, I’m still a novice in this field. I’m not feigning expertise about it.

I confide, ‘I might slip up, I may commit errors. My ardent wish is to steer clear of major blunders.'”

This version maintains the original sentiment while using first-person language and a more natural, conversational tone.

According to reports, she is employed as a video editor for an unidentified YouTube gaming star.

2023 saw me, an ardent admirer, privileged to delve into an intimate conversation with the esteemed guest on her blog, Into More. She graciously shared her journey of self-discovery and embracing her identity as a transgender woman. In this heartfelt discourse, she generously offered guidance for fellow travelers embarking on their own coming-out journeys.

She mentioned that everyone’s circumstances are unique, and some might find safety by staying hidden. However, if you don’t fear eviction from your home or immediate danger, then it could be beneficial for you to emerge, especially to people you trust. This action may bring you a sense of relief, even though it’s only temporary.

Alternatively, share your thoughts with a reliable person, and then you can embark on your journey, where one of the steps is to make clear your chosen pronouns to all.

JACK DEPP – Son of Johnny Depp and Vanessa Paradis

Occupation: Bartender

In the spirit of transparency, I recently unearthed some intriguing news from Daily Mail in December – it appears that Johnny Depp and Vanessa Paradis’ son, Jack, has taken up the role of a mixologist right here in the vibrant city of Paris.

Amongst Depp’s and Paradis’s two offspring, the 22-year-old is the youngest; the elder one being actress Lily-Rose Depp at 25 years old, who were born during their marriage spanning from 1998 to 2012.

In stark contrast to my family, who are deeply immersed in the world of acting, I, Jack, have chosen a different path. Instead of following the footsteps of my parents and sister on the silver screen, I’ve found a passion for the culinary arts at a trendy Lebanese restaurant named L’Area, nestled in the vibrant Bastille quarter.

According to the Daily Mail’s report from December, it was found that Jack was not only working shifts at the bar but also preparing a delicious mixed mezze down in the kitchen.

The December report by Daily Mail showed that Jack was handling both bar shifts and cooking up an appetizing mix of mezzes downstairs in the kitchen.

Or:
Back in December, the Daily Mail reported that Jack had a dual role, serving behind the bar during his shifts while also preparing an impressive mixed mezze down in the kitchen.

Photos showing him working at the restaurant have been shared on their social media platforms, accompanied by videos of Lily-Rose mixing drinks at the bar.

For the past two years, Jack worked at The Area and then departed, however, its proprietor, Edouard Chueke, anticipates his return sometime next year.

In simpler terms, Mr. Chueke informed TopMob that ‘Jack is an outstanding individual who prefers to stay out of the spotlight. He’s been working diligently both behind the bar and in our kitchen.’

Chueke mentioned that the individual was an excellent worker who recently departed, but he anticipates his return sometime in the following year. He also noted that finding quality employees can be challenging.

“Chueke stated that the guy was a great employee who just left a few months ago, but he believes he’ll come back by next year. It’s tough to find good workers.

SAM SPRINGSTEEN – Son of Bruce Springsteen and Patti Scialfa

Occupation: Firefighter

Bruce Springsteen stands out as one of the most emblematic singers America has produced, yet unlike him, none of his offspring chose to step into the spotlight.

The venerable rock musician and his longtime spouse, both aged 71, are now proud parents to three grown-up offspring: Evan (34 years old), Jessica (33 years old), and Samuel (31 years old).

Among all the children, it was just Evan who pursued a career in music. He’s now employed as a music programmer at Apple, having earlier worked for Sirius XM.

Jessica, the middle child among her siblings, achieved Olympic success as an equestrian, earning a silver medal in the team event. Beyond her Olympic accolades, she is a highly skilled professional show jumper and serves as a representative for prestigious brands such as Polo by Ralph Lauren and Gucci.

Instead, it was Sam who fully adopted his father’s working-class mindset, taking on the role of a firefighter for Jersey City, New Jersey, starting from 2021.

A challenging path led up to that point too; Sam completed his training at the Monmouth County Fire Academy in 2014, and prior to landing the job in Jersey City, he served as a volunteer firefighter at three distinct stations.

2021 saw Bruce express his pride, stating that it had been a lengthy journey, but due to his exceptional dedication, it was worth every year. Today, we share in his excitement.

Additionally, he is recognized for being the one who made Bruce Springsteen (referred to as The Boss) a grandparent, as he welcomed his daughter, Lily Harper, along with his spouse, Alex Reph, in 2022.

IRELAND BALDWIN – Daughter of Alec Baldwin and Kim Basinger

Occupation: Homemaker in Oregon 

In the beginning, I was all set to tread the same path as my legendary mom, but then something shifted inside me. Instead of getting swept up by the whirlwind of Hollywood in Los Angeles, I chose a more tranquil existence with my loved ones in Oregon.

At the tender age of 17 in 2013, this 29-year-old secured a contract with IMG Models. Since then, they’ve adorned the covers of prestigious fashion publications such as Elle and Vanity Fair.

In 2014, she first appeared on screen acting together with her mother Kim in the movie “Grudge Match”. However, unlike her mother, she wasn’t particularly skilled at acting yet.

OR

Although her debut performance as an actress was in the 2014 film “Grudge Match”, alongside her mother Kim, she didn’t display exceptional acting skills like her mother did at that time.

In his conversation on the High Low with EmRata podcast a year ago, Alec Baldwin confessed that he struggles with acting and it doesn’t seem to be something he was naturally born to do.

In the end, she chose to build a life with musician RAC (whose real name is Andre Allen Anjos). They were blessed with their first child, a girl, in May 2023.

In the year 2020, she relocated to Portland, Oregon together with her family. Notably, she shared that she found it difficult to cope with Hollywood, leading her to step away from that realm.

She mentioned that she felt unable to stay in Los Angeles any longer. The city was gradually wearing her down, and during the pandemic, it seemed particularly gloomy to her.

Ireland stated, “Los Angeles has many charming aspects, yet it can be deceptive. It’s teeming with numerous individuals who may not necessarily prioritize your well-being.

PARKER O’DONNELL – Son of Rosie O’Donnell

Occupation: Marine Corps

Comedian Rosie O’Donnell has taken on parenthood for five kids, starting with her son Parker, who picked a career path that would surprise his comedian mom: the armed forces.

Back in 1995, when Parker was still an infant, the 63-year-old man took him in as his adoptive son. As he grew older, Parker developed a deep interest and passion for the military.

Since childhood, that particular topic has always held his fascination. In much the same way I am passionate about Barbra Streisand and Bette Midler as well as entertainment, he could provide you with details on any general from any war, the types of tanks they used, and a vivid description of the battles themselves. This statement was made in 2011.

In 2011, when he was a teenager, he managed to persuade his mother to enroll him at Valley Forge Military Academy. This decision paved the way for his future military career in the Marines.

In 2014, during an episode of The View, O’Donnell humorously suggested, “To irritate your peace-loving, left-wing, anti-war mother, you might transform into a prominent figure in the military.

Additionally, he shared on Instagram that he earned the title of mixologist in 2016, suggesting he might be aiming to emulate his mother’s profession.

At the end of January, he posted on Instagram about completing his education at the Los Angeles Film School. It isn’t yet apparent what sort of film industry path he plans to follow.

I completed my studies today. I owe a big thank you to all my teachers and mentors for assisting me in earning this degree. A heartfelt appreciation also goes out to my family, who made it possible for me to pursue and successfully finish my higher education.

TOMMY ZISSO – Son of Erika Jayne 

Occupation: LAPD police officer

As a die-hard fan, I can’t help but sing the praises of Erika Jayne, who’s famously graced the screens in the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills franchise. Yet, it’s her first marriage to Thomas Zizzo that has truly left a lasting impression on L.A., producing one of its finest gems.

In December 1991, the 53-year-old celebrity from reality TV married Thomas Zizzo. They had a son, Tommy, in 1992. However, their marriage didn’t last long, as they divorced when Erika was only 20 years old.

She relocated to Los Angeles not long after the separation, thereby leaving Tommy with his dad in New York. In her own words from 2018, this action represented ‘the largest leap of faith I’ve ever dared to make.’

She expressed that she had been quite anxious, yet resolute on achieving her goals. Moreover, she believed that he would ultimately join her in this place.

Currently, Tommy is 32 years old and serves as a police officer for the Los Angeles Police Department. It seems Erika suggests that he may not be featured on the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills in the year 2019.

As a die-hard admirer, let me share with you what she expressed earlier: “I highly doubt it. Frankly, I believe it’s unlikely. You see, he leads a private life, and he’s a dedicated police officer.

In 2020, following the death of George Floyd, the reality TV personality promptly spoke up in defense of her child as well.

She was raised to avoid racism, and her duty is to safeguard and assist everyone, regardless of their ethnicity, not only those who share her complexion. I strongly discourage your presence on this platform.

In January Zizzo, testified in Los Angeles in the gun trial of rapper A$AP Rocky.

Zizzo was the first witness called in the highly publicized case.

In a recent court case, I, as Rihanna’s father (or more casually, Rocky), have been involved in an unfortunate incident. Back in 2021, I was accused of a grave offense – assault with a firearm. The allegations claimed that I discharged a firearm during an altercation with a friend. However, after thorough examination of the evidence, the court has reached a decision: I have been found not guilty. This is a relief for me and my family, but I hope this incident serves as a reminder to everyone to prioritize peace and understanding in our interactions with one another.

Officer Zizzo, who was among those who reacted to the reported gunfire incident, shared his insights after reaching the location.

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2025-05-11 00:07

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