Young Actors Who Have Famous Parents

The phenomenon of “nepo babies” has become a central topic of discussion in modern Hollywood, highlighting the significant number of performers who followed their parents into the entertainment industry. While some have faced scrutiny, many of these young actors have proven their talent through critically acclaimed roles and box office successes. From award-winning dramatic leads to rising stars in major franchises, the second generation of Hollywood talent is making a distinct mark on the silver screen. This list explores 50 young male actors who are carving out their own legacies while carrying some of the industry’s most recognizable last names.

Alexander Ludwig

Alexander Ludwig is the son of actress Sharlene Martin and businessman Harald Ludwig. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Cato in the 2012 film ‘The Hunger Games’. Ludwig later starred as Bjorn Ironside in the historical drama series ‘Vikings’ for several seasons. He has continued his television career with a lead role in the series ‘Heels’ alongside Stephen Amell. His filmography also includes appearances in ‘Lone Survivor’ and ‘Bad Boys for Life’.

Ben Platt

Ben Platt is the son of film, television, and theater producer Marc Platt. He first rose to fame as Benji Applebaum in the musical film ‘Pitch Perfect’ and its sequel. Platt achieved critical acclaim for originating the title role in the Broadway musical ‘Dear Evan Hansen’, a role he later reprised for the film adaptation. He has starred in the Netflix series ‘The Politician’, earning a Golden Globe nomination for his performance. Additionally, he has released multiple studio albums as a solo musical artist.

Bill Skarsgård

Bill Skarsgård is a member of the prominent Swedish acting family and the son of Stellan Skarsgård. He is best known for his portrayal of Pennywise the Dancing Clown in the modern adaptations of ‘It’ and ‘It Chapter Two’. Skarsgård has appeared in major action films, including a significant role as the antagonist in ‘John Wick: Chapter 4’. His television work includes lead roles in the horror series ‘Hemlock Grove’ and the psychological thriller ‘Castle Rock’. He is also set to star as the title character in the upcoming remake of ‘The Crow’.

Brandon Thomas Lee

Brandon Thomas Lee is the son of actress Pamela Anderson and Mötley Crüe drummer Tommy Lee. He began his professional acting career with roles in films such as ‘Sierra Burgess Is a Loser’ and ‘Cosmic Sin’. Lee gained broader public attention through his appearance in the reality television revival ‘The Hills: New Beginnings’. He has since transitioned into more dramatic work, including the Netflix film ‘The Last Son’. Lee also works as a professional model, appearing in various fashion campaigns for major designers.

Brian Gleeson

Brian Gleeson is the son of Irish actor Brendan Gleeson and the brother of actor Domhnall Gleeson. He has appeared in several high-profile television series, including ‘Peaky Blinders’ as Jimmy McCavern and ‘The Lazarus Project’. Gleeson starred alongside his father and brother in the comedy series ‘Frank of Ireland’, which he also co-created. His film credits include ‘Snow White and the Huntsman’, ‘Assassin’s Creed’, and the psychological thriller ‘Mother!’. He continues to work extensively in both Irish and international theater productions.

Charlie Hall

Charlie Hall is the son of actress Julia Louis-Dreyfus and producer Brad Hall. He has built a television career with recurring roles in series such as ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’ and ‘Bel-Air’. Hall appeared in the Disney+ series ‘Big Shot’ and the romantic comedy film ‘Sweethearts’. He previously played college basketball for Northwestern University before shifting his focus to the entertainment industry. His work often highlights his comedic timing, following in the footsteps of his parents’ backgrounds in sketch comedy.

Chet Hanks

Chet Hanks is the son of actors Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson. He has appeared in several notable television series, including ‘Empire’, where he played the character Blake. Hanks had a recurring role as Joey Malone in the Showtime legal drama ‘Your Honor’ alongside Bryan Cranston. His film credits include ‘Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull’ and ‘Larry Crowne’. Beyond acting, he has pursued a career in the music industry as a rapper and songwriter.

Cooper Hoffman

Cooper Hoffman is the son of the late Academy Award-winning actor Philip Seymour Hoffman. He made his professional acting debut as the lead character Gary Valentine in Paul Thomas Anderson’s 2021 film ‘Licorice Pizza’. For this breakout performance, he received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. Hoffman is part of the ensemble cast in the biographical comedy-drama ‘Saturday Night’. He is recognized for his choice in character-driven narratives early in his career.

Damian Hurley

Damian Hurley is the son of actress Elizabeth Hurley and American businessman Steve Bing. He made his acting debut playing Prince Hansel von Liechtenstein in the E! series ‘The Royals’, appearing alongside his mother. Hurley is also a high-profile model, having signed with major agencies and fronted campaigns for brands like Pat McGrath Labs. In 2024, he made his directorial debut with the mystery thriller film ‘Strictly Confidential’. He frequently collaborates with his mother on various creative projects and public appearances.

Deacon Phillippe

Deacon Phillippe is the son of actors Reese Witherspoon and Ryan Phillippe. He made his acting debut in 2022 with a guest role in the third season of the Netflix hit ‘Never Have I Ever’. Phillippe portrays a member of a rival debate team in the series, showcasing his interest in following his parents’ career paths. In addition to acting, he is a songwriter and music producer who has released original tracks. He continues to balance his academic pursuits with emerging roles in the entertainment sector.

Duke Nicholson

Duke Nicholson is the grandson of legendary actor Jack Nicholson and the son of Jennifer Nicholson. He made a memorable film debut in Jordan Peele’s 2019 horror film ‘Us’ as the character Danny. Nicholson also appeared on the cover of Lana Del Rey’s Grammy-nominated album ‘Norman Fucking Rockwell!’. He had a role in the 2021 thriller ‘Crisis’ alongside Gary Oldman and Armie Hammer. Despite his famous lineage, he maintains a relatively low public profile while selecting specific artistic projects.

Dylan Jagger Lee

Dylan Jagger Lee is the son of Pamela Anderson and Tommy Lee, and the younger brother of Brandon Thomas Lee. He has appeared in various fashion-related film projects and short films. Lee is primarily known for his work as a model and musician, having worked with designers like Saint Laurent. He has been involved in several creative media projects that bridge the gap between music and visual storytelling. His public appearances often highlight his interest in the intersection of the fashion and entertainment industries.

Ethan Peck

Ethan Peck is the grandson of legendary Hollywood icon Gregory Peck. He achieved widespread recognition for his portrayal of Spock in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ and the spin-off series ‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’. His early career included roles in the television series ’10 Things I Hate About You’ and the film ‘In Time’. Peck has also voiced characters in major video games, such as ‘Halo 4’ and ‘Gears 5’. He has earned praise for bringing a modern interpretation to one of science fiction’s most classic characters.

Evan Ross

Evan Ross is the son of legendary singer Diana Ross and businessman Arne Næss Jr. He is well known for his role as Messalla in ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1’ and ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2’. Ross also starred in the musical drama series ‘Star’ and the reality series ‘Ashlee + Evan’ with his wife, Ashlee Simpson. His filmography includes roles in ‘ATL’ and the biographical film ‘The United States vs. Billie Holiday’. He continues to work as both an actor and a musician.

Harry Holland

Harry Holland is the son of comedian and author Dominic Holland and the brother of actor Tom Holland. He has appeared in small roles and cameos in major films such as ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ and ‘Cherry’. Holland is also an aspiring director and has worked behind the scenes on several of his brother’s film sets. He directed the short film ‘Roses for Lily’ and frequently collaborates on creative video content. His work often bridges the gap between acting and professional cinematography.

Hero Fiennes Tiffin

Hero Fiennes Tiffin is the son of director Martha Fiennes and the nephew of actors Ralph and Joseph Fiennes. He gained international fame for his lead role as Hardin Scott in the ‘After’ film franchise. Tiffin previously portrayed the young Tom Riddle in ‘Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince’. He has also modeled for luxury brands such as Dolce & Gabbana and Ferragamo. His recent work includes the historical epic ‘The Woman King’ alongside Viola Davis.

Hopper Penn

Hopper Penn is the son of Academy Award winners Sean Penn and Robin Wright. He has appeared in several feature films, including ‘The Last Face’ and the war drama ‘War Machine’. Penn starred alongside his father in the 2021 film ‘Flag Day’ and appeared in the thriller ‘Devil’s Peak’. His work often explores gritty, character-driven narratives in independent cinema. He continues to establish himself as a serious actor in both film and television.

Jack Kilmer

Jack Kilmer is the son of actors Val Kilmer and Joanne Whalley. He made his film debut in the 2013 drama ‘Palo Alto’, directed by Gia Coppola. Kilmer is also known for his role as Pelle in the biographical black metal film ‘Lords of Chaos’. He provided the narration for the documentary ‘Val’, which chronicles his father’s life and career. Additionally, he has worked as a model for Saint Laurent and continues to take on diverse roles in independent films.

Jack Quaid

Jack Quaid is the son of actors Dennis Quaid and Meg Ryan. He rose to international prominence for his lead role as Hughie Campbell in the superhero satire series ‘The Boys’. Quaid made his film debut in ‘The Hunger Games’ and has since appeared in high-profile projects like ‘Scream’ and ‘Oppenheimer’. He also voices the character Brad Boimler in the animated series ‘Star Trek: Lower Decks’. His career is noted for a wide range of roles in both comedic and dramatic productions.

Jackson White

Jackson White is the son of actress and singer Katey Sagal and drummer Jack White. He gained significant attention for his starring role as Stephen DeMarco in the Hulu original series ‘Tell Me Lies’. White has appeared in films such as ‘The Many Saints of Newark’ and the 2023 horror film ‘Pet Sematary: Bloodlines’. His television credits also include a recurring role in the medical drama ‘The Resident’. He is an accomplished musician, often incorporating his musical background into his creative life.

Jaden Smith

Jaden Smith is the son of actors Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith. He made his acting debut alongside his father in ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ and later starred in the remake of ‘The Karate Kid’. Smith has appeared in the science fiction film ‘After Earth’ and the Netflix series ‘The Get Down’. He is also a successful recording artist and fashion icon known for his philanthropic work. His career spans film, music, and environmental activism through his company Just Water.

Jake Bongiovi

Jake Bongiovi is the son of rock legend Jon Bon Jovi and Dorothea Hurley. He made his professional acting debut in the romantic comedy film ‘Sweethearts’. Bongiovi is also known for his high-profile relationship and marriage to actress Millie Bobby Brown. He has appeared in various fashion editorials and is expanding his presence in the film industry. His future projects include roles in upcoming independent feature films.

John David Washington

John David Washington is the son of Academy Award-winning actor Denzel Washington and Pauletta Washington. Before pursuing acting, he played professional football in the NFL and UFL. He had his breakout role in the HBO series ‘Ballers’ before starring in Spike Lee’s ‘BlacKkKlansman’. Washington led the cast of Christopher Nolan’s blockbuster ‘Tenet’ and starred in the drama ‘Malcolm & Marie’. He has received multiple award nominations for his work in film and on Broadway.

Joseph Baena

Joseph Baena is the son of actor and former governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and Mildred Patricia Baena. He has pursued a career in acting with roles in films such as ‘Bully High’ and ‘Lava’. Baena is also an athlete and real estate agent who frequently shares his bodybuilding progress on social media. He has appeared in television competitions, including a stint on ‘Dancing with the Stars’. His acting style often pays homage to the action-hero roles made famous by his father.

Julian De Niro

Julian De Niro is the son of legendary actor Robert De Niro and Toukie Smith. He made his television debut portraying a young Barack Obama in the Showtime anthology series ‘The First Lady’. De Niro has also worked as a professional model, appearing in various high-fashion campaigns. He continues to pursue acting roles while maintaining a private personal life. His casting in historical and political dramas has drawn attention to his potential as a dramatic actor.

Levon Hawke

Levon Roan Thurman-Hawke is the son of actors Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman. He made his professional screen debut in the Netflix series ‘The Crowded Room’ starring Tom Holland. He has also appeared in the film ‘Blink Twice’, directed by Zoë Kravitz. Like his sister Maya Hawke, he is involved in both acting and music. He is frequently seen supporting his parents’ work at major international film festivals.

Lewis Pullman

Lewis Pullman is the son of actor Bill Pullman and dancer Tamara Hurwitz. He gained recognition for his roles in the films ‘Bad Times at the El Royale’ and ‘Top Gun: Maverick’. Pullman stars in the Amazon Prime series ‘Outer Range’ and the miniseries ‘Lessons in Chemistry’. His work has been praised for its versatility across different genres, from action to period drama. He is set to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the upcoming film ‘Thunderbolts*’.

Lucas Hedges

Lucas Hedges is the son of Oscar-nominated filmmaker Peter Hedges and actress Susan Bruce. He received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role in ‘Manchester by the Sea’. Hedges has starred in several critically acclaimed films, including ‘Lady Bird’, ‘Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri’, and ‘Boy Erased’. He has also performed on Broadway in productions such as ‘The Waverly Gallery’. His career is defined by his choices in sensitive, character-driven dramatic roles.

Mason Gooding

Mason Gooding is the son of Academy Award-winning actor Cuba Gooding Jr. He is best known for his roles in the teen comedy ‘Booksmart’ and the fifth and sixth installments of the ‘Scream’ franchise. Gooding also starred in the Hulu series ‘Love, Victor’ for three seasons. His filmography includes appearances in ‘Fall’ and the Netflix film ‘Let It Snow’. He continues to be a prominent figure in the new generation of horror and comedy actors.

Michael Consuelos

Michael Consuelos is the son of actors Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos. He is best known for playing the younger version of his father’s character, Hiram Lodge, on the CW series ‘Riverdale’. Consuelos has also appeared in the television movie ‘The Bensonhurst Spelling Bee’. He has worked in production and development behind the scenes in the television industry. His on-screen appearances are often noted for the striking physical resemblance to his father.

Michael Gandolfini

Michael Gandolfini is the son of the late actor James Gandolfini and Marcy Wudarski. He gained significant acclaim for portraying the younger version of his father’s iconic character, Tony Soprano, in the prequel film ‘The Many Saints of Newark’. Gandolfini has appeared in the film ‘Cherry’ and the Paramount+ series ‘The Offer’. He had a recurring role in the HBO series ‘The Deuce’ during its second and third seasons. His upcoming work includes a role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe series ‘Daredevil: Born Again’.

Micheál Richardson

Micheál Richardson is the son of actors Liam Neeson and the late Natasha Richardson. He starred alongside his father in the 2020 drama film ‘Made in Italy’. Richardson also appeared in the action thriller ‘Cold Pursuit’ and the film ‘Vox Lux’. He chose to use his mother’s surname professionally as a tribute to her legacy. His work has largely focused on dramatic roles in independent and mainstream cinema.

Milo Gibson

Milo Gibson is the son of actor and director Mel Gibson and Robyn Moore Gibson. He made his film debut in the Academy Award-winning war drama ‘Hacksaw Ridge’, which was directed by his father. Gibson has since taken on leading roles in action films such as ‘All the Devil’s Men’ and ‘Hurricane’. He also appeared in the historical drama ‘The Outpost’ and the film ‘Breaking & Exiting’. His career frequently features physically demanding roles in the action and drama genres.

O’Shea Jackson Jr.

O’Shea Jackson Jr. is the son of rapper and actor Ice Cube. He made his film debut portraying his father in the 2015 biographical film ‘Straight Outta Compton’. Since then, he has starred in major productions such as ‘Godzilla: King of the Monsters’, ‘Just Mercy’, and ‘Cocaine Bear’. Jackson also appeared in the Disney+ series ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’ as Kawlan Roken. He has earned praise for establishing a distinct acting career separate from his father’s musical and film legacy.

Paddy Holland

Paddy Holland is the youngest son of Dominic Holland and the brother of Tom Holland. He made his television debut in the series ‘Invasion’ and later starred as Bobby in the Netflix series ‘Lockwood & Co.’. Holland has also appeared in short films and made a cameo in the film ‘Holmes & Watson’. He continues to train in acting while appearing in various media projects alongside his brothers. His work in young adult fiction series has helped him gain a following of his own.

Patrick Schwarzenegger

Patrick Schwarzenegger is the son of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver. He has starred in films such as ‘Midnight Sun’, ‘Echo Boomers’, and the horror-comedy ‘Daniel Isn’t Real’. His television work includes a prominent role in the true-crime miniseries ‘The Staircase’ and the superhero series ‘Gen V’. Schwarzenegger is also a successful entrepreneur and model, having appeared in campaigns for Tom Ford. He is set to appear in the third season of the acclaimed series ‘The White Lotus’.

Raff Law

Rafferty Law is the son of actors Jude Law and Sadie Frost. He starred as the title character in the 2021 film ‘Twist’, a modern retelling of ‘Oliver Twist’. Law has a lead role in the historical war drama miniseries ‘Masters of the Air’, produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks. He is also a musician in the band Outer Stella Overdrive and has modeled for brands like Dolce & Gabbana. His career often spans the creative disciplines of acting, music, and fashion.

Ray Nicholson

Ray Nicholson is the son of Academy Award winner Jack Nicholson and actress Rebecca Broussard. He is known for his roles in the Amazon Prime series ‘Panic’ and the 2022 horror hit ‘Smile’. Nicholson appeared in the film ‘Licorice Pizza’ and starred in the thriller ‘Out of the Blue’. His performances are frequently noted for his expressive screen presence. He continues to work in both independent films and major studio productions.

Sam Holland

Sam Holland is the son of Dominic Holland and a brother to Tom, Harry, and Paddy Holland. He appeared as a young boy in the 2012 disaster film ‘The Impossible’ alongside his brother Tom. Sam has worked on several short films and creative projects, often collaborating with his siblings. While he maintains a lower public profile than some of his brothers, he remains involved in the family’s creative ventures. He is also known for his philanthropic work through The Brothers Trust.

Sawyer Spielberg

Sawyer Spielberg is the son of legendary director Steven Spielberg and actress Kate Capshaw. He made his feature film acting debut as the lead in the 2020 horror film ‘Honeydew’. Spielberg has a background in theater and has performed in various stage productions in New York. He appeared in the Apple TV+ miniseries ‘Masters of the Air’. His approach to acting is often described as focused on independent and experimental projects.

Scott Eastwood

Scott Eastwood is the son of legendary actor and director Clint Eastwood. He has appeared in several major film franchises, including ‘Suicide Squad’, ‘The Fate of the Furious’, and ‘Pacific Rim: Uprising’. Eastwood starred in the romantic drama ‘The Longest Ride’ and the action film ‘Wrath of Man’. He has also worked with his father on films such as ‘Flags of Our Fathers’ and ‘Gran Torino’. Beyond acting, he is known for his interests in outdoor sports and fitness.

Truman Hanks

Truman Hanks is the youngest son of actors Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson. He made his significant acting debut playing the younger version of his father’s character in the 2022 film ‘A Man Called Otto’. Before transitioning to acting, he worked in the camera department on films like ‘Black Widow’ and ‘West Side Story’. His performance in ‘A Man Called Otto’ was noted for the natural chemistry he shared with the elder Hanks. He continues to explore opportunities both in front of and behind the camera.

Valter Skarsgård

Valter Skarsgård is the youngest son of Stellan Skarsgård and the brother of Alexander, Gustaf, and Bill Skarsgård. He has appeared in several Swedish and international projects, including the series ‘Katla’ and ‘Black Lake’. Skarsgård portrayed Bård “Faust” Eithun in the biographical film ‘Lords of Chaos’. He is also a prominent video game streamer and personality on platforms like Twitch. His work continues the family tradition of successful acting careers across various media.

Weston Cage

Weston Cage Coppola is the son of Academy Award-winning actor Nicolas Cage and Christina Fulton. He has appeared in films such as ‘Lord of War’, ‘Drive Angry’, and ‘Get Gone’. Coppola is also a musician, having performed as the lead singer for the black metal band Eyes of Noctum. He has contributed to film soundtracks and continues to take on roles in independent action and horror films. His creative work often reflects his interest in dark and intense themes.

Wyatt Russell

Wyatt Russell is the son of actors Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn. He is well known for his role as John Walker in the Marvel Cinematic Universe series ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’. Russell stars alongside his father in the Apple TV+ series ‘Monarch: Legacy of Monsters’. His film credits include ’22 Jump Street’, ‘Everybody Wants Some!!’, and ‘Overlord’. Before becoming an actor, he pursued a professional career in ice hockey.

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