Young Actresses with Famous Parents

The entertainment industry has long been shaped by families who pass their craft from one generation to the next. In recent years, a significant number of young actresses have emerged in Hollywood and international cinema, building upon the foundations established by their famous parents. These performers range from breakout stars in major streaming series to leads in acclaimed independent films. While their surnames often draw initial attention, many have worked to establish their own professional identities through diverse roles and critical recognition. This list explores fifty young actresses who are continuing their family legacies in the spotlight.

Maya Hawke

Maya Hawke is the daughter of Academy Award nominees Uma Thurman and Ethan Hawke. She made her professional acting debut as Jo March in the BBC adaptation of ‘Little Women’ (2017). Hawke gained widespread fame for her role as Robin Buckley in the Netflix series ‘Stranger Things’ (2016–PRESENT). She also appeared in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’ (2019) and the comedy ‘Do Revenge’ (2022). In addition to acting, she has released several folk-pop music albums.

Lily-Rose Depp

Lily-Rose Depp is the daughter of American actor Johnny Depp and French singer Vanessa Paradis. Her career began with a supporting role in ‘Tusk’ (2014) followed by a performance as Isadora Duncan in ‘The Dancer’ (2016). She starred opposite Timothée Chalamet in the historical drama ‘The King’ (2019). More recently, she led the cast of the HBO drama series ‘The Idol’ (2023) as a pop star navigating the music industry. She continues to divide her work between American and French cinema.

Kaia Gerber

Kaia Gerber is the daughter of supermodel Cindy Crawford and businessman Rande Gerber. Although she is primarily known for her successful modeling career, she has transitioned into acting with recurring roles. She appeared in ‘American Horror Story’ (2011–PRESENT) and the satirical comedy ‘Bottoms’ (2023). Gerber also secured a role in the period comedy series ‘Palm Royale’ (2024). She is increasingly focusing on feature film projects as her screen career matures.

Maude Apatow

Maude Apatow is the eldest daughter of filmmaker Judd Apatow and actress Leslie Mann. She frequently appeared in her father’s early comedies, such as ‘Knocked Up’ (2007) and ‘This Is 40’ (2012). Her career reached a new peak with her portrayal of Lexi Howard in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’ (2019–PRESENT). She also starred in the film ‘The King of Staten Island’ (2020) and made her off-Broadway debut in ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ (1982). Apatow has balanced her screen work with various theater and fashion collaborations.

Margaret Qualley

Margaret Qualley is the daughter of actress Andie MacDowell and Paul Qualley. She gained prominence for her role in the HBO drama ‘The Leftovers’ (2014–2017) before starring in ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’ (2019). Qualley received an Emmy nomination for her performance in the limited series ‘Maid’ (2021), where she starred alongside her real-life mother. Her recent work includes the surrealist film ‘Kinds of Kindness’ (2024) and the action-comedy ‘Drive-Away Dolls’ (2024). She is recognized for choosing complex and unconventional roles in independent cinema.

Iris Apatow

Iris Apatow is the younger daughter of Judd Apatow and Leslie Mann. Like her sister, she appeared in ‘Knocked Up’ (2007) and ‘Funny People’ (2009) during her childhood. She had a recurring role as Arya in the Netflix series ‘Love’ (2016–2018). In 2022, she appeared in the comedy film ‘The Bubble’ (2022) as a TikTok influencer. She continues to build a presence in the comedy genre while engaging with high-profile fashion projects.

Mia Threapleton

Mia Threapleton is the daughter of Academy Award winner Kate Winslet and director Jim Threapleton. She appeared in the film ‘A Little Chaos’ (2014) before taking on a lead role in the series ‘I Am Ruth’ (2022). In the latter project, she performed alongside her mother in a story exploring mental health and social media. She also appeared in the television series ‘Shadow and Bone’ (2021–2023). Threapleton has been noted for her grounded approach to the acting profession.

Nico Parker

Nico Parker is the daughter of actress Thandiwe Newton and director Ol Parker. She made her debut as Milly Farrier in the live-action adaptation of ‘Dumbo’ (2019). Parker received critical acclaim for her role as Sarah Miller in the HBO series ‘The Last of Us’ (2023). She also appeared in the science fiction film ‘Reminiscence’ (2021) and the coming-of-age drama ‘Suncoast’ (2024). Her performance in ‘Suncoast’ (2024) earned her the Breakthrough Performance Award at the Sundance Film Festival.

West Duchovny

West Duchovny is the daughter of actors David Duchovny and Téa Leoni. She gained recognition for her role as Shannon Schaeffer in the Netflix limited series ‘Painkiller’ (2023). Duchovny also starred in the Hulu series ‘Saint X’ (2023) as Alison Thomas. Her early work includes a small appearance in the final season of ‘The X-Files’ (1993–2018). She is building a career focused on intense dramatic performances in television.

Harlow Jane

Harlow Jane is the daughter of actors Thomas Jane and Patricia Arquette. She began her career with roles in ‘Texas Rising’ (2015) and the film ‘Dig’ (2022). In 2023, she appeared in the comedy-drama series ‘High Desert’ (2023) playing a younger version of her mother’s character. She also landed a role in the comedy-drama film ‘She Came to Me’ (2023). Jane has pursued acting independently while occasionally collaborating on her parents’ projects.

Ella Beatty

Ella Beatty is the daughter of Hollywood veterans Warren Beatty and Annette Bening. She attended the Juilliard School to study drama before entering the professional industry. Her breakout role came in the Ryan Murphy series ‘Feud: Capote vs. The Swans’ (2024), where she played Kerry O’Shea. She also secured a recurring role in the medical drama ‘The Pitt’ (2025). Beatty is noted for her classical training and transition into prestige television.

Sadie Sandler

Sadie Sandler is the eldest daughter of comedian Adam Sandler and Jackie Sandler. She has appeared in many of her father’s productions, including ‘Bedtime Stories’ (2008) and ‘Grown Ups’ (2010). She voiced characters in the ‘Hotel Transylvania’ (2012) franchise and starred in ‘You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah’ (2023). In 2023, she also lent her voice to the animated film ‘Leo’ (2023). Her roles often highlight her comedic timing within her family’s production company, Happy Madison.

Sunny Sandler

Sunny Sandler is the younger daughter of Adam Sandler and Jackie Sandler. Her film credits include ‘Pixels’ (2015) and ‘Hubie Halloween’ (2020), usually appearing alongside her family members. She played the lead role of Stacy Friedman in ‘You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah’ (2023), which focused on a middle-school drama. Sunny also contributed voice work to the Netflix animated project ‘Leo’ (2023). She is a frequent collaborator in her father’s Netflix-based projects.

Ever Anderson

Ever Anderson is the daughter of actress Milla Jovovich and director Paul W. S. Anderson. She portrayed a young Natasha Romanoff in the Marvel Studios film ‘Black Widow’ (2021). Anderson also took on the lead role of Wendy Darling in the Disney+ film ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’ (2023). Her career started in modeling, but she has since focused on major franchise roles. She is set to appear in several upcoming science fiction and action features.

Iris Law

Iris Law is the daughter of actors Jude Law and Sadie Frost. While she is a prominent figure in the fashion world, she made her acting debut in the miniseries ‘Pistol’ (2022). In the series, she portrayed the real-life punk icon Soo Catwoman. She has since expressed interest in expanding her filmography while continuing her work as a brand ambassador. Law is known for her distinct personal style and creative choices in the arts.

Dylan Penn

Dylan Penn is the daughter of Academy Award winners Sean Penn and Robin Wright. She worked in modeling before transitioning to acting in films like ‘Condemned’ (2015) and ‘Elvis & Nixon’ (2016). She starred opposite her father in the drama ‘Flag Day’ (2021), which he also directed. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and highlighted her dramatic range. Penn has since appeared in various independent projects and short films.

Grace Van Dien

Grace Van Dien is the daughter of actor Casper Van Dien and Carrie Mitchum. She is widely known for her role as Chrissy Cunningham in the fourth season of ‘Stranger Things’ (2016–PRESENT). Prior to this, she starred in the NBC series ‘The Village’ (2019) and the teen drama ‘Greenhouse Academy’ (2017–2020). Van Dien is also an active presence in the digital space through live streaming and gaming. She continues to take on roles in horror and thriller cinema.

Harley Quinn Smith

Harley Quinn Smith is the daughter of filmmaker Kevin Smith and Jennifer Schwalbach Smith. She starred in her father’s films ‘Tusk’ (2014) and ‘Yoga Hosers’ (2016) alongside Lily-Rose Depp. Her career expanded with a lead role in the Freeform series ‘Cruel Summer’ (2021–2023). She has also appeared in ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’ (2019) and voiced characters in various animated projects. Smith is an advocate for veganism and animal rights outside of her acting work.

Lily Mo Sheen

Lily Sheen is the daughter of actors Kate Beckinsale and Michael Sheen. She appeared as a child in films starring her mother, such as ‘Underworld: Evolution’ (2006) and ‘Everybody’s Fine’ (2009). Her adult breakout role occurred in ‘The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent’ (2022), where she played the daughter of Nicolas Cage’s character. She has since been involved in various theatrical and film auditions in Los Angeles. Sheen balances her acting pursuits with her studies and personal interests.

Sosie Bacon

Sosie Bacon is the daughter of Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick. She made her debut in the film ‘Loverboy’ (2005) and later appeared in the series ‘The Closer’ (2005–2012). Her career gained significant momentum after she played Skye Miller in ’13 Reasons Why’ (2017–2020). In 2022, she headlined the psychological horror film ‘Smile’ (2022), which became a box office success. Bacon is recognized for her performances in dark and emotionally demanding narratives.

Francesca Eastwood

Francesca Eastwood is the daughter of actor-director Clint Eastwood and actress Frances Fisher. She gained early public attention through the reality series ‘Mrs. Eastwood & Company’ (2012). Her acting roles include appearances in ‘Jersey Boys’ (2014) and the television revival ‘Twin Peaks’ (2017). She also starred in the M. Night Shyamalan thriller ‘Old’ (2021) and the film ‘The Vault’ (2017). Eastwood has worked consistently in both mainstream and independent horror films.

Sistine Rose Stallone

Sistine Stallone is the daughter of Sylvester Stallone and Jennifer Flavin. She made her acting debut in the survival horror film ’47 Meters Down: Uncaged’ (2019). Following her debut, she appeared in the action film ‘Midnight in the Switchgrass’ (2021) alongside Megan Fox and Bruce Willis. She is also a successful fashion model and has appeared on several international magazine covers. Stallone often shares glimpses of her professional life on the family reality show ‘The Family Stallone’ (2023–PRESENT).

Scarlet Rose Stallone

Scarlet Stallone is the youngest daughter of Sylvester Stallone and Jennifer Flavin. She made her television debut in the Paramount+ series ‘Tulsa King’ (2022–PRESENT), playing the character Spencer. Like her sisters, she has appeared on the reality series ‘The Family Stallone’ (2023–PRESENT). While her acting career is in its early stages, she has gained a significant following through social media and television appearances. She continues to pursue roles while completing her education.

Corinne Foxx

Corinne Foxx is the daughter of actor and musician Jamie Foxx. She made her film debut in ’47 Meters Down: Uncaged’ (2019) and appeared in the series ‘Dad Stop Embarrassing Me!’ (2021). Foxx has also served as the DJ for the game show ‘Beat Shazam’ (2017–PRESENT), which her father hosts. In addition to acting, she has worked as a producer on projects like the documentary ‘Sweetwater’ (2023). She is active in mental health advocacy and various philanthropic ventures.

Willow Smith

Willow Smith is the daughter of Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith. She began her acting career as a child in the film ‘I Am Legend’ (2007) and voiced a character in ‘Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa’ (2008). While she shifted her primary focus to a successful music career, she has continued to appear in various media projects. Smith was a co-host on the talk show ‘Red Table Talk’ (2018–2023), earning a Daytime Emmy Award. She remains an influential figure in Gen Z culture across music, fashion, and television.

Ella Bleu Travolta

Ella Bleu Travolta is the daughter of actors John Travolta and Kelly Preston. She made her film debut in the comedy ‘Old Dogs’ (2009) and later appeared in the thriller ‘The Poison Rose’ (2019). In 2024, she took on a lead role in the reimagined fairy tale film ‘Get Lost’ (2024). She has also pursued a career in music, releasing her first singles in recent years. Travolta continues to honor her parents’ legacy while developing her own artistic path.

Zoey Deutch

Zoey Deutch is the daughter of actress Lea Thompson and director Howard Deutch. She rose to fame with roles in ‘Vampire Academy’ (2014) and the Netflix romantic comedy ‘Set It Up’ (2018). She also starred in the satirical series ‘The Politician’ (2019–2020) and the film ‘Not Okay’ (2022). Deutch has produced several of her own projects, including ‘Buffaloed’ (2019). She is recognized for her versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles.

Billie Lourd

Billie Lourd is the daughter of the late Carrie Fisher and talent agent Bryan Lourd. She is known for her roles in the ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy (2015–2019) and the horror-comedy series ‘Scream Queens’ (2015–2016). Lourd became a staple of the ‘American Horror Story’ (2011–PRESENT) franchise, appearing in multiple seasons. She also had a standout role in the coming-of-age film ‘Booksmart’ (2019). She often discusses the influence of her mother and grandmother, Debbie Reynolds, on her career.

Louisa Jacobson

Louisa Jacobson is the youngest daughter of Meryl Streep and Don Gummer. She made her major television debut as Marian Brook in the HBO period drama ‘The Gilded Age’ (2022–PRESENT). Before her screen career, she worked in professional theater, including a production of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ (1597). Jacobson uses her mother’s maiden name as her professional surname to distinguish herself. She has received praise for her portrayal of a young woman navigating 19th-century New York society.

Hannah Einbinder

Hannah Einbinder is the daughter of ‘Saturday Night Live’ (1975–PRESENT) original cast member Laraine Newman. She is a stand-up comedian and actress who achieved a breakthrough role in the series ‘Hacks’ (2021–PRESENT). Her performance as Ava Daniels earned her multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. Einbinder is known for her deadpan humor and has toured extensively as a stand-up comic. She continues to be a prominent voice in modern television comedy.

Janhvi Kapoor

Janhvi Kapoor is the daughter of Indian film icon Sridevi and producer Boney Kapoor. She made her debut in the Hindi film ‘Dhadak’ (2018), which was a significant commercial success. Kapoor has since starred in diverse projects like ‘Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl’ (2020) and the horror-comedy ‘Roohi’ (2021). She is one of the most followed young actresses in Bollywood and a major brand ambassador. Her filmography includes a mix of female-led dramas and commercial entertainers.

Sara Ali Khan

Sara Ali Khan is the daughter of Bollywood actors Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh. She entered the film industry with the drama ‘Kedarnath’ (2018) and the action film ‘Simmba’ (2018). Khan is known for her vibrant public persona and roles in films like ‘Atrangi Re’ (2021) and ‘Gaslight’ (2023). She is a graduate of Columbia University, often balancing her academic background with her acting career. She is considered a leading figure among the new generation of Indian cinema stars.

Suhana Khan

Suhana Khan is the daughter of global superstar Shah Rukh Khan and producer Gauri Khan. She made her professional acting debut in the Netflix musical film ‘The Archies’ (2023). Khan has been featured in several high-profile fashion magazines and serves as a brand ambassador for major beauty labels. She studied drama at New York University before beginning her film career in India. Her future projects are highly anticipated by the Indian film industry and global fans.

Khushi Kapoor

Khushi Kapoor is the younger daughter of Sridevi and Boney Kapoor. She debuted alongside Suhana Khan in the 2023 Netflix film ‘The Archies’ (2023). Before acting, she was known for her fashion presence and social media following. Kapoor has reportedly signed on for multiple upcoming feature films in Bollywood. She continues the legacy of her mother, who was one of India’s most celebrated actresses.

Alaya F

Alaya F is the daughter of actress Pooja Bedi and granddaughter of veteran actor Kabir Bedi. She received critical acclaim and a Filmfare Award for her debut in ‘Jawaani Jaaneman’ (2020). Alaya has since appeared in the psychological thriller ‘Freddy’ (2022) and the supernatural film ‘U-Turn’ (2023). She is noted for her disciplined approach to fitness and her candid social media presence. Her choice of unconventional scripts has set her apart in the Bollywood industry.

Ananya Panday

Ananya Panday is the daughter of Indian actor Chunky Panday. She made her debut in ‘Student of the Year 2’ (2019) and appeared in the romantic drama ‘Gehraiyaan’ (2022). Panday has starred in several successful commercial films, including ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh’ (2019). She is the founder of the ‘So Positive’ (2019) initiative, which aims to combat social media bullying. She remains a prominent face in the Indian youth demographic and luxury brand circuit.

Deva Cassel

Deva Cassel is the daughter of Italian actress Monica Bellucci and French actor Vincent Cassel. She began her career in high fashion before making her acting debut in the film ‘The Beautiful Summer’ (2023). Cassel also landed a role in the Netflix series ‘The Leopard’ (2025), a modern adaptation of the classic Italian novel. She is celebrated for her striking resemblance to her mother and her ability to work across European markets. Her career reflects a blend of cinematic tradition and contemporary fashion.

Clara McGregor

Clara McGregor is the eldest daughter of Scottish actor Ewan McGregor. she has appeared in several films, including ‘The Birthday Cake’ (2021) and ‘Bleeding Love’ (2023). In ‘Bleeding Love’ (2023), she starred alongside her father in a story she also helped develop. McGregor has worked as a model and producer, showing an interest in the creative process behind the camera. She continues to take on roles in the independent film sector.

Esther-Rose McGregor

Esther Rose McGregor is the daughter of Ewan McGregor and Eve Mavrakis. She made her screen debut in the Disney+ series ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’ (2022), appearing in a cameo role during her father’s return to the franchise. She also starred in the independent film ‘Bleeding Love’ (2023) with her sister and father. Beyond acting, Esther is a musician and often shares her work through digital platforms. She is part of the emerging group of creatives following the McGregor family path.

Taylor Dearden

Taylor Dearden is the daughter of ‘Breaking Bad’ (2008–2013) star Bryan Cranston. She is best known for her lead role as Ophelia Mayer in the MTV series ‘Sweet/Vicious’ (2016–2017). Dearden also appeared in the television series ‘American Vandal’ (2017–2018) and ‘The Pitt’ (2025). She had a brief appearance in ‘Breaking Bad’ (2008–2013) early in her career. She has established herself as a versatile actress in both dramatic and comedic television projects.

Jamison Belushi

Jamison Belushi is the daughter of actor Jim Belushi and niece of the late John Belushi. She appeared in several episodes of her father’s sitcom ‘According to Jim’ (2001–2009) as a child. As an adult, she has pursued roles in films like ‘The Last Summer’ (2019) and various television guest spots. She is also a singer and has performed alongside her father’s musical groups. Belushi continues to audition and work within the Los Angeles acting community.

Phoebe Dynevor

Phoebe Dynevor is the daughter of British actress Sally Dynevor, known for her long-running role in ‘Coronation Street’ (1960–PRESENT). She achieved global stardom as Daphne Bridgerton in the Netflix series ‘Bridgerton’ (2020–PRESENT). Before her breakout, she appeared in the series ‘Waterloo Road’ (2006–PRESENT) and ‘Snatch’ (2017–2018). In 2023, she starred in the critically acclaimed thriller ‘Fair Play’ (2023). Dynevor is now considered a leading talent in both television and feature films.

Honor Swinton Byrne

Honor Swinton Byrne is the daughter of Academy Award winner Tilda Swinton and playwright John Byrne. She received widespread critical acclaim for her lead role in ‘The Souvenir’ (2019) and its sequel ‘The Souvenir Part II’ (2021). In these films, she played a film student, appearing alongside her real-life mother. Swinton Byrne is noted for her naturalistic acting style and careful selection of artistic projects. She continues to work primarily in independent and auteur-driven cinema.

Rainey Qualley

Rainey Qualley is the daughter of Andie MacDowell and the older sister of Margaret Qualley. She has appeared in films such as ‘Ocean’s 8’ (2018) and ‘The Last Stop in Yuma County’ (2023). Qualley also starred in the series ‘Love in the Time of Corona’ (2020) during the pandemic. In addition to acting, she releases music under the name Rainsford. She maintains a presence in the fashion and independent film worlds.

Destry Allyn Spielberg

Destry Allyn Spielberg is the daughter of legendary director Steven Spielberg and actress Kate Capshaw. She began her career in modeling before moving into acting and directing. She appeared in the film ‘Licorice Pizza’ (2021) and directed the award-winning short film ‘Let Me Go the Right Way’ (2022). Spielberg has expressed a strong desire to build a career behind the camera as well as in front of it. She is part of a new wave of filmmakers with deep industry roots.

Emma Roberts

Emma Roberts is the daughter of actor Eric Roberts and the niece of Julia Roberts. She first rose to fame as the star of the Nickelodeon series ‘Unfabulous’ (2004–2007). Since then, she has become a mainstay of the ‘American Horror Story’ (2011–PRESENT) franchise and starred in the series ‘Scream Queens’ (2015–2016). Her film credits include ‘We’re the Millers’ (2013) and ‘Madame Web’ (2024). Roberts is also a producer and co-founder of the book club ‘Belletrist’ (2017).

Lily Collins

Lily Collins is the daughter of English musician Phil Collins and Jill Tavelman. She made her film debut in ‘The Blind Side’ (2009) before taking on lead roles in ‘Mirror Mirror’ (2012) and ‘The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones’ (2013). Collins received a Golden Globe nomination for her role in ‘Rules Don’t Apply’ (2016). Since 2020, she has starred in and produced the hit Netflix series ‘Emily in Paris’ (2020–PRESENT). She is widely recognized for her fashion influence and consistent work in romantic dramas.

Dakota Johnson

Dakota Johnson is the daughter of actors Don Johnson and Melanie Griffith. She achieved international fame for her portrayal of Anastasia Steele in the ‘Fifty Shades’ (2015–2018) film trilogy. Johnson has since earned critical respect for her roles in independent films like ‘Suspiria’ (2018) and ‘The Lost Daughter’ (2021). She also starred in the superhero film ‘Madame Web’ (2024) and founded her own production company, TeaTime Pictures. She remains one of the most prominent actresses of her generation.

Riley Keough

Riley Keough is the daughter of Lisa Marie Presley and the granddaughter of Elvis Presley. She made her debut in ‘The Runaways’ (2010) and has since become a respected actress in independent cinema. Keough received critical acclaim for her roles in ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ (2015) and ‘American Honey’ (2016). She starred in the Amazon series ‘Daisy Jones & The Six’ (2023), which earned her an Emmy nomination. She is also a director, having co-directed the film ‘War Pony’ (2022).

Which of these rising stars do you think has made the biggest impact on the industry so far? Please share your thoughts in the comments.