1. Tracee Ellis Ross – Daughter of Diana Ross
You know her from Black-ish and Girlfriends, but did you know her mom is music royalty? Tracee Ellis Ross is the daughter of Diana Ross, the Motown legend who shaped generations with her voice and presence. Growing up in such a household, Tracee could have leaned on her family name, but she chose to carve her own path. With her charisma, confidence, and natural humor, she built a career that feels authentic and true to her. She often says her mom is her biggest supporter, and that balance helped her shine as her own kind of star.
2. Rashida Jones – Daughter of Quincy Jones and Peggy Lipton
Her calm wit and subtle charm made Rashida Jones a standout in Parks and Recreation and The Office, but her family ties are just as remarkable. Rashida is the daughter of legendary music producer Quincy Jones and actress Peggy Lipton, known for The Mod Squad. Despite growing up in the middle of fame, Rashida built her success carefully, pursuing acting, writing, and producing on her own terms. She once noted that her family inspired her but never pressured her into one direction. That independence has allowed her to create a career marked by balance, creativity, and quiet brilliance.
3. Dakota Johnson – Daughter of Don Johnson and Melanie Griffith
Dakota Johnson may be best known for her breakout in Fifty Shades of Grey, but Hollywood runs in her bloodline. She is the daughter of Don Johnson, the Miami Vice star, and Melanie Griffith, the Golden Globe winning actress from Working Girl. If that was not enough, her grandmother is Tippi Hedren, the unforgettable star of Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds. Still, Dakota wanted to make her own name, building a career defined by her charm and understated performances. She has said that storytelling runs in her family, but she continues to tell stories in her own unique way.
4. Lily Collins – Daughter of Phil Collins
Lily Collins has captured hearts with roles in films and especially as Emily in Paris, but many are surprised to learn her father is Phil Collins, the music legend behind hits like In the Air Tonight. While she grew up surrounded by fame, Lily has been clear about carving out her own place. She worked her way up through acting, writing, and fashion, often sharing that she had to prove herself apart from her father’s name. That determination paid off. Lily brings charm, grace, and relatability to every project, and her career shines as brightly as her father’s music.
5. Zoë Kravitz – Daughter of Lenny Kravitz and Lisa Bonet
Zoë Kravitz has a magnetic quality that makes her unforgettable, whether in Big Little Lies, High Fidelity, or The Batman. But her famous parents may surprise some. She is the daughter of Lenny Kravitz, the Grammy winning rock star, and Lisa Bonet, who captured audiences on The Cosby Show. Growing up with such cool credentials, Zoë could have coasted on family fame, yet she chose to build her artistry with depth and individuality. She once said she wanted to make her own mark, and that shines through. With acting, music, and style, Zoë continues to define herself beautifully.
6. Emma Roberts – Daughter of Eric Roberts, Niece of Julia Roberts
Emma Roberts has proven herself a versatile actress, often called a scream queen for her roles in American Horror Story and Scream Queens. Still, her family connections run deep in Hollywood. She is the daughter of actor Eric Roberts and the niece of Julia Roberts, one of the most beloved actresses in the world. Despite this famous background, Emma has said she wanted to create her own career rather than rely on family. That determination led her to bold roles that mix humor and edge. Today, she shines with a talent that feels both inherited and distinctly her own.
7. John David Washington – Son of Denzel Washington
When John David Washington appeared in BlacKkKlansman and Tenet, audiences were impressed by his charisma and talent. What many did not know at first is that he is the son of Denzel Washington, one of Hollywood’s most respected actors. John David intentionally kept his family connection quiet early in his career, wanting his work to be recognized on its own merit. That decision made his rise all the more genuine. He has since spoken about how his father supports him without overshadowing him. With every role, John David shows he is a star entirely in his own right.
8. Margaret Qualley – Daughter of Andie MacDowell
Margaret Qualley earned widespread acclaim for her stunning performance in Maid, where her emotional depth left audiences captivated. Yet behind the scenes, she comes from Hollywood roots. She is the daughter of Andie MacDowell, who charmed the world in films like Groundhog Day and Four Weddings and a Funeral. Margaret has said her mother has been both a role model and a friend, yet she was determined to build her own reputation. That determination shines in her thoughtful, layered performances. While Andie defined romantic comedies of the past, Margaret is setting the stage for powerful new storytelling today.
9. Jack Quaid – Son of Dennis Quaid and Meg Ryan
Jack Quaid has become a breakout star with his witty and engaging performances in The Boys and Oppenheimer. His parents are Dennis Quaid and Meg Ryan, two of the most recognizable stars of the 1990s. While growing up in that household could have made acting easier, Jack has been open about wanting to make his own way. He said he pursued acting because he truly loved it, not because of family pressure. Fans appreciate his charm and relatability, which make him stand out as a performer. Jack may come from a famous family, but his talent speaks louder.
10. Maude Apatow – Daughter of Judd Apatow and Leslie Mann
Maude Apatow grew up surrounded by comedy, with her father, Judd Apatow, creating hits like Knocked Up and her mother, Leslie Mann, starring in many of them. Yet Maude’s breakout role in Euphoria showed a softer, more dramatic side that surprised audiences. She has said she does not want to be known only as Judd’s daughter, and her acting proves that point. As Lexi, she displayed quiet brilliance and emotional depth. Her performances feel thoughtful and personal, making it clear she is building a career that will stand apart. Maude is a star with her own distinct light.
11. Chris Pine – Son of Robert Pine
Chris Pine has become a household name through roles in Star Trek and Wonder Woman, but his roots in acting run deeper than many realize. He is the son of Robert Pine, a longtime television actor best known for his role in the classic series CHiPs. Chris once said he admired his father’s work ethic and steady career, and that influence helped guide his own choices. While Robert made his mark on television, Chris expanded into blockbuster films. His charm, versatility, and leadership on screen show how a legacy can continue with fresh energy and modern storytelling.
12. Ben Platt – Son of Marc Platt
Ben Platt made history with his role in Dear Evan Hansen, earning a Tony Award and cementing himself as a Broadway star. But his father, Marc Platt, is also a major Hollywood figure, producing hits like La La Land and Legally Blonde. Despite that connection, Ben has often talked about finding his own passion for performing at a young age, developing a love for music and theater that grew naturally. His journey feels authentic, with a voice that captures audiences every time. The Platt name may open doors, but Ben’s undeniable talent has kept those doors wide open.
13. Billie Lourd – Daughter of Carrie Fisher and Granddaughter of Debbie Reynolds
Billie Lourd may have grown up in Hollywood royalty, but she has steadily built her own reputation. She is the daughter of Carrie Fisher, the legendary Princess Leia from Star Wars, and the granddaughter of Debbie Reynolds, one of the most beloved stars of classic Hollywood. While that family tree could be overwhelming, Billie once said she found her strength in carving her own path. From Scream Queens to Booksmart, she has shown range and charisma. Her career reflects both a respect for her family’s legacy and a desire to stand as a distinct and talented actress herself.
14. Eve Hewson – Daughter of Bono
Eve Hewson has quietly built an impressive career, earning praise for her role in Bad Sisters and other standout performances. Many fans are surprised to learn she is the daughter of Bono, the frontman of U2. Eve decided early on to drop her last name and avoid leaning on her father’s fame, choosing instead to earn recognition for her acting. She has said she wanted to be seen for her work, not her parentage. That determination has paid off. With her charm, wit, and captivating performances, Eve is steadily proving herself as a star entirely on her own.
15. Maya Hawke – Daughter of Uma Thurman and Ethan Hawke
Maya Hawke charmed fans in Stranger Things, bringing a quirky wit and layered sensitivity to her role as Robin. But behind her success is a family connection to two of Hollywood’s biggest names: Uma Thurman and Ethan Hawke. Despite growing up with such parents, Maya has said she pursued acting for the love of storytelling, not for the spotlight. She brings a sense of ease and authenticity that feels refreshing. With more roles in film and television coming her way, it is clear Maya is building a career that honors her roots while standing firmly as her own.
16. Nico Parker – Daughter of Thandiwe Newton and Ol Parker
Nico Parker made waves with her moving role in The Last of Us, where audiences quickly recognized her raw talent. She is the daughter of actress Thandiwe Newton and director Ol Parker, yet Nico’s performances stand out as her own. She has shared that her parents encourage her to follow her passions while giving her the freedom to choose her path. That balance shows in how she carries herself with maturity and depth. With each new project, Nico is proving she has the ability to continue her family’s creative legacy while shaping a promising future of her own.
17. Grace Gummer – Daughter of Meryl Streep
Grace Gummer may not share her mother’s last name on screen, but she is the daughter of Meryl Streep, often hailed as the greatest living actress. Grace has built a career with roles in The Newsroom and Mr. Robot, where her quiet strength and thoughtful performances have impressed audiences. She once explained that using a different last name gave her the chance to grow outside of her mother’s shadow. That decision reflects her determination to succeed based on her own merit. While Meryl’s influence is undeniable, Grace is steadily proving her own place in the world of acting.
18. Wyatt Russell – Son of Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn
Wyatt Russell may have started as a professional hockey player, but he eventually turned to acting, where his career has taken off. Fans know him from roles in Overlord and The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, but many are surprised to learn he is the son of Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn. Wyatt has admitted that while growing up in a famous family shaped him, he wanted to build his success without comparisons. His thoughtful performances show both range and grit. Today, he is recognized for carving out a career that feels steady, intentional, and all his own.
19. Zoey Deutch – Daughter of Lea Thompson and Howard Deutch
Zoey Deutch has become a familiar face in romantic comedies and Netflix films, loved for her wit and relatability. She is the daughter of Lea Thompson, star of Back to the Future, and Howard Deutch, a director behind many classic 80s movies. Zoey has said she grew up surrounded by creativity, but she focused on hard work and persistence to build her own name. That approach is reflected in the variety of roles she chooses. Whether comedic or heartfelt, she carries a spark that keeps audiences watching. Her parents’ influence shows, but Zoey shines uniquely bright.
20. Kate Hudson – Daughter of Goldie Hawn, Raised by Kurt Russell
Kate Hudson’s rise in films like Almost Famous felt like destiny, especially once people realized her famous family background. She is the daughter of Goldie Hawn and was raised by Goldie’s longtime partner Kurt Russell, who helped shape her childhood. Kate often credits her parents for inspiring her but emphasizes that her success comes from her own passion for acting. Her roles blend warmth and charisma, qualities that feel familiar to anyone who loved her parents’ work. Kate’s career reflects how family inspiration and personal drive can come together to create a lasting, celebrated Hollywood presence.
21. Nicolas Cage – Nephew of Francis Ford Coppola
Nicolas Cage is not the child of a Hollywood star, but his family ties are still surprising. He was born Nicolas Coppola, nephew of famed director Francis Ford Coppola. Wanting to avoid assumptions about nepotism, he changed his name early in his career. Cage explained that he wanted his work to be judged independently, which led to some of the most memorable performances in modern cinema. From Leaving Las Vegas to National Treasure, his career has been eclectic and unpredictable. His story shows that even with family ties, reinvention and individuality can create a legacy of their own.
This story 21 Stars with Famous Parents (That You Might’ve Never Known About) was first published on Daily FETCH
