Why Celebrities Like Tom Cruise and Angelina Jolie Chose Not to Raise Nepotism Babies
Imagine this: You’re brought into a world where cameras are perpetually flashing, your morning meal is shared on Instagram before you’ve even had a chance to enjoy it, and you’re labeled a “nepo baby” simply for being born. Constantly, you question the intentions of those who befriend you — do they genuinely care, or do they just want exclusive concert passes?
This is the tumultuous reality for anyone with famous parents. While having a renowned last name can open many doors, numerous children of celebrities are opting for lives away from the limelight and pursuing more conventional careers.
Consider Bruce Springsteen’s younger son, Sam. While his dad stands as a monumental figure in rock history, the 31-year-old has chosen a different path: he serves as a firefighter in New York, earning his father’s pride. “It was a lengthy journey,” Springsteen remarked to The New York Times upon Sam’s completion of training. “He demonstrated great dedication for several years, and we are truly thrilled for him today.”
Bella Cruise, the daughter of Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman, is another example. At 32, she has no desire for the spotlight. Instead, she channels her creativity into digital art while leading a simple life in London, designing charming tote bags and embodying the trendy, artistic urban lifestyle.
She isn’t the sole offspring of stars showcasing their artistic talents elsewhere: both Harrison Ford and Bill Murray have children making their mark in the culinary world! Ford’s son Ben operates a cozy diner at LAX and a market. Surprisingly, given their diverse careers, he mentions how his father’s achievements have motivated him. “My father played an active role in my upbringing, and he enjoys cooking too,” Ben, 58, explained. “His dedication to his craft has profoundly influenced me as a chef.”
Murray’s son Homer, aged 42, runs a trendy restaurant in Brooklyn, and his father, the Ghostbusters star, expressed happiness at his son’s deviation from the acting path, stating during the opening event, “I am thrilled — he hasn’t followed in the family business!”
At the same time, many younger descendants of Hollywood are venturing into diverse realms. Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt’s son Maddox, now 23, is pursuing biochemistry; Jerry Seinfeld’s son Julian, 21, is focused on sociology, and this year, both Violet Affleck, 19, and Moses Martin, 18, are among the A-listers’ kids choosing higher education over immediate Hollywood careers. (Parents Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner as well as Chris Martin and Gwyneth Paltrow are undoubtedly proud!)
What’s prompting so many offspring of celebrities to veer away from their parents’ footsteps? Clearly, the vast wealth and success of their families have empowered them to explore various avenues — if their endeavors don’t pan out, they’re unlikely to face financial struggles. Importantly, they are rejecting the glitzy lifestyles they were raised in. Despite enjoying the perks of fame, such as living in stunning homes and traveling frequently, they have also witnessed the downsides: lack of privacy, immense pressure, and the superficiality of Hollywood life.
Consequently, many are pursuing lives rich in purpose and stability. Moreover, they are not isolated in redefining success. In our current age, two decades into the ascendance of social media and reality television, it’s evident that fame isn’t always the golden ticket. Perhaps more typical kids will also observe these well-known figures actively denying fame and fortune and contemplate whether a life outside the media spotlight is ultimately more fulfilling — even if it means foregoing summers on luxurious yachts.
