10 Nepo Babies Who Faced Public Backlash

Top-10-Nepo-Babies-Who-Faced-Public-Backlash

Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks at the privileged relatives of celebrities who drew criticism or were embroiled in controversy due to their behaviors, actions, and/or inability to overcome the “nepo baby” label.

#10: Deacon Philippe

You know that condo you build for your Sims after using the money cheat code? Deacon Philippe basically lives in it. Son of actors Reese Witherspoon and Ryan Philippe, Deacon studies in New York City and most definitely does not live in low priced student housing. TikTok star Caleb Simpson interviews New Yorkers on the street, asking them how much rent they pay and if he can have a quick tour. Philippe brought him up to his amazing and posh apartment, complete with spiral staircase, brick walls, artwork and a presumably very expensive music production setup. This, of course, drew criticism, especially given that Philippe never once mentioned his parents footing the bill (which, let’s face it, we all know is probably what’s happening here).

#9: Lottie Moss

Kate Moss has been a huge name in the fashion industry for decades, so it’s no wonder those in her orbit would have an advantage. Lottie Moss is Kate’s younger half-sister, and has become a model herself. This would be fine had Lottie not put out a spoiled, brattish message. In 2022, she tweeted acknowledging that nepotism gives folks “a leg up” in the industry, but simultaneously said she was tired of hearing others complain about it. She then said that “life isn’t fair.” In a subsequent Newsweek article, she defended her words, saying they came out wrong. She then told the story of her modeling and eventual content creator/OnlyFans career. It had a “poor me” vibe, and many didn’t like it.

#8: Chet Hanks

Chet Hanks has admitted to being a black sheep. He had a troubled childhood, with stints in boarding schools and therapy programs. Hanks has appeared in a handful of movie and TV roles, and has dabbled in the music world. However, controversy follows the son of Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson. In 2021, he released a single called “White Boy Summer” which drew ire with its merch reminiscent of a certain hate-fueled movement. He also did this whole bizarre Jamaican accent thing…not good. Chet’s history with substances, restraining orders and warrants for arrest haven’t helped his public standing. In stark contrast, his half-brother Colin Hanks is pretty squeaky clean, which probably draws comparison.

#7: Hailey Bieber

Modeling seems to be a popular choice for nepo babies. Hailey Bieber (née Baldwin… recognize that name?) has been prominent on the fashion scene since 2014, with campaigns for Vogue and Ralph Lauren on her resumé. Her father is Stephen Baldwin, member of the Baldwin family alongside brothers Alec, Daniel and William. There is absolutely no doubt that a name like that will open some doors in the entertainment industry, and Hailey is a clear example. She’s talented, of course. We’re not saying she has no merit, but that the way was paved decades ahead. She drew negative attention in 2023 for donning a “Nepo Baby” t-shirt, so she knows what she did. Perhaps it’s not necessary to rub it in the lay folks' faces?

#6: Ivanka Trump

Humility’s antagonist Donald Trump has a few children — five to be precise. Arguably the most publicly present is daughter Ivanka, through her appearances and his creepy comments. Ivanka is a businesswoman, having worked on a number of projects. She also had a fashion line, as well as a modeling career. But after her father was elected, she decided to serve in the White House. She held an advisory position, and was put in charge of the Office of Economic Initiatives and Entrepreneurship. There’s no doubt she got this far due to her father’s prominent position. She’s often been criticized for her part in the Trump administration, claims of female empowerment that have fallen flat, as well as ethical controversies.

#5: Gwyneth Paltrow

Oh, Gwyneth… we couldn’t possibly leave you off this list. Gwyneth Paltrow was born to filmmaker father Bruce Paltrow and actress Blythe Danner. Additionally, her godfather is Steven Spielberg, in case her parents’ names didn’t ring a privileged bell for you. She first acted in a movie directed by her dad in 1989, before consistently booking acting gigs. But it’s her controversial wellness business, goop, that has led to negative attention. Indeed, the company sells overpriced items, many of which have received backlash for perpetuating harmful, unproven fads. Remember the jade eggs thing? In 2023, Paltrow herself claimed that “nepo baby” is an “ugly moniker.” Perhaps she would prefer “Nepo Lady”?

#4: Dakota Johnson

Dakota Johnson’s parents were essentially Hollywood royalty when she was born in 1989. Father Don Johnson was wrapping up a 5 season stint on TV’s “Miami Vice”, and mother Melanie Griffith (daughter to Hitchcock muse Tippi Hedren) was an established movie star. To her credit, Dakota has publicly said that she was financially cut off by her dad when she chose to pursue an acting career. Her parents didn't support her foregoing higher education to do so. However, her name and affiliations undoubtedly gave her a foot in the Hollywood door. Johnson has called the “nepo baby” focus “annoying and boring”, and mocked her status in an “SNL” skit. While she’s largely a beloved actress, some of this discourse has not gone over well.

#3: Jaden Smith

Now this is a story all about how the Fresh Prince gave us his offspring to gawk at, whether we want to or not. Jaden, son of Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith, is an actor and rapper. He arguably isn’t a master at either craft, though he has received some awards. Interestingly, his parents have revealed that discipline wasn’t prominent in their household. To make matters worse, Jaden appeared on “Ellen” in 2013, boasting about everything being free at his father’s house. That same year, the home-schooled Smith said that those who attend “normal school” are just “so teenagery, so angsty.” As you can imagine, these aren’t the kinds of comments that go over well with people.

#2: Max Landis

Max Landis is the child of John Landis (famous for directing such films as “Spies Like Us” and “National Lampoon’s Animal House,” to name a few). Max is a filmmaker, albeit not as successful in the industry as his dad. His biggest hit was the 2012 movie “Chronicle”, for which he wrote the screenplay. However, he was reportedly banned from the set of the film by director Josh Trank for undisclosed reasons. These “reasons” were perhaps linked to the harassment and abuse allegations brought forth by at least 8 women. Landis allegedly used his position and status to get women in relationships with him, only to emotionally and physically abuse them.

#1: Charlie Sheen

Charlie Sheen is the son of award-winning actor Martin Sheen. When the former was born in 1965, Martin’s star was on the rise. Being one of 4 children, the road was paved for Charlie and his siblings Emilio, Ramon and Renée, who all opted to follow in their father’s footsteps. Charlie Sheen did have a very successful career, with credits in such classics as “Wall Street” and “Platoon”, among others. However, Sheen caused controversy on multiple occasions. Substance use, conspiracy theories, controversial opinions and a famous sitcom firing led to much backlash throughout his career. Though his presence in the entertainment world arguably outshines those of his siblings, it hasn’t been a clear path.

What should your parents be famous for? Let us know in the comments below!