Hollywood has long been fascinated by stories of legacy, and audiences remain endlessly intrigued by talent that flows from one generation to the next. These family duos and trios of parents and children reveal how success in the entertainment industry can become a true family affair, often shaped by shared passion, inherited artistry, and the undeniable pull of a famous name. Yet alongside the glamour comes the weight of expectations, comparisons, and pressure to live up to those who came before. Whether following similar creative paths or forging entirely different careers, these families demonstrate that talent—and sometimes the spotlight itself—can run deep in the bloodline.
15. Liv Tyler & Steven Tyler
Liv Tyler carved out her own space in Hollywood with roles that emphasized grace and quiet strength, most famously as Arwen in The Lord of the Rings. Before acting, she worked as a model, gradually stepping into a career that felt distinctly her own despite her rock-star roots.
Her connection to Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler became public later than most celebrity family stories. Liv didn’t learn Steven was her biological father until she was around ten years old, after noticing how closely they resembled each other. Since then, their bond has grown strong, becoming one of Hollywood’s most fascinating and heartfelt father-daughter stories.
14. Riley Keough & Lisa Marie Presley (and Elvis Presley)
Riley Keough was born into one of America’s most legendary families, but she never relied on nostalgia to define her career. As the daughter of Lisa Marie Presley and granddaughter of Elvis Presley, expectations followed her from the start.
Rather than leaning into music, Riley chose acting and quickly earned respect for roles in Mad Max: Fury Road and Daisy Jones & the Six. While she’s acknowledged the weight of her family legacy, she’s also proven she can stand confidently on her own, honoring the Presley name while building something entirely personal.
13. Lily Collins & Phil Collins
Lily Collins grew up surrounded by music royalty, thanks to her father, Genesis frontman and solo legend Phil Collins. Still, she pursued acting, eventually landing leading roles that showcased both charm and emotional range.
Lily has been candid about the double-edged sword of her famous surname, admitting it opened doors but didn’t guarantee longevity. One of their sweetest connections came when Phil wrote “You’ll Be In My Heart” for Tarzan, a song inspired by his love for her—a rare blend of family and art.
12. Maya Hawke, Uma Thurman & Ethan Hawke
Maya Hawke entered the spotlight carrying two instantly recognizable last names. As the daughter of Uma Thurman and Ethan Hawke, curiosity about her career came fast—and loud.
Her breakout role on Stranger Things silenced doubts, proving she could hold her own. While she’s clearly influenced by her parents’ creative backgrounds, Maya has steadily shaped a career defined by individuality rather than inheritance.
11. Allison Williams & Brian Williams
Allison Williams followed a different path than her father, longtime news anchor Brian Williams. While he became a fixture in American journalism, Allison found success in television and film.
She’s spoken openly about navigating public scrutiny and expectations, especially when her career began gaining traction. Their story reflects how fame can look very different across industries—yet still shape family dynamics in meaningful ways.
10. Billie Lourd, Carrie Fisher & Debbie Reynolds
Billie Lourd represents a rare three-generation Hollywood lineage. Her mother, Carrie Fisher, and grandmother, Debbie Reynold,s both left lasting marks on film history.
Despite profound personal loss, Billie has continued acting with quiet confidence, appearing in projects like American Horror Story and Star Wars. Her career honors her family’s legacy while embracing a modern, understated approach to fame.
9. Liza Minnelli & Judy Garland
Judy Garland was already a legend when Liza Minnelli was born, setting a daunting standard few could match. Yet Liza did exactly that, becoming an icon in her own right.
Their relationship was layered and complex, shaped by success, pressure, and vulnerability. Together, they remain one of the most powerful examples of talent passed through generations—along with the emotional weight that often comes with it.
8. Tracee Ellis Ross & Diana Ross
Tracee Ellis Ross grew up watching her mother, Diana Ross, redefine music and style. Instead of following her into singing, Tracee found her calling in comedy and television.
Over time, she’s spoken lovingly about Diana’s influence—not just as a performer, but as a role model for independence and confidence. Their bond reflects a shared legacy of trailblazing success across different media.
7. Zoë Kravitz, Lenny Kravitz & Lisa Bonet
Zoë Kravitz was raised at the intersection of music, film, and fashion. With Lenny Kravitz and Lisa Bonet as parents, creativity was simply part of daily life.
Zoë has credited her upbringing for keeping her grounded despite fame. Her success across acting and music mirrors her parents’ versatility, making this trio one of Hollywood’s most effortlessly cool family legacies.
6. Kate Hudson, Goldie Hawn & Kurt Russell
Kate Hudson may share a surname with her biological father, but she’s long considered Kurt Russell her true parental figure. Raised by Goldie Hawn and Russell, Kate grew up in a deeply supportive, unconventional household.
She’s often praised for prioritizing love and stability over Hollywood norms. Their family dynamic shows that emotional bonds—not genetics—are what truly shape a legacy.
5. Dakota Johnson, Melanie Griffith, Don Johnson & Tippi Hedren
Dakota Johnson comes from a lineage packed with film history, spanning three generations of recognizable stars. Yet she’s navigated fame with a distinctly modern sensibility.
Open about the realities of nepotism debates, Dakota has emphasized consistency and hard work. Her career reflects both the benefits and pressures of inheriting a Hollywood name—and surviving on her own merit.
4. Rashida Jones, Quincy Jones & Peggy Lipton
Rashida Jones grew up surrounded by creative excellence, with music legend Quincy Jones and actress Peggy Lipton as parents. That environment shaped her curiosity and versatility.
Rather than sticking to one lane, Rashida built a career spanning acting, writing, and producing. Her success reflects a blend of her parents’ artistic instincts and her own sharp voice.
3. John David Washington & Denzel Washington
John David Washington took an unconventional route to acting, first pursuing professional football before transitioning into film. His father, Denzel Washington, offered guidance—but never shortcuts.
John David has repeatedly stressed the importance of earning respect independently. Their relationship is rooted in discipline, humility, and mutual admiration rather than legacy alone.
2. Sofia Coppola & Francis Ford Coppola, and Roman Coppola
The Coppola name is woven into film history, with multiple generations leaving their mark behind the camera. Sofia Coppola grew up immersed in storytelling, yet carved out her own signature style.
Alongside her brother Roman and father Francis, she represents one of cinema’s most creatively influential families. Their collective legacy speaks to the power of artistic environments passed down through generations.
1. Henry Fonda, Jane Fonda, & Peter Fonda
Few families loom as large over Hollywood history as the Fondas. Henry Fonda’s career set the foundation, while Jane and Peter expanded it in bold, transformative ways.
Their shared achievements—including historic Oscar moments—cemented the family as a cinematic dynasty. Together, they embody the very idea of generational greatness in film.
Hollywood legacies may begin with famous names, but they endure through talent, reinvention, and resilience. These parent-child duos and trios prove that while fame can be inherited, staying power must be earned—generation after generation.