Jack Quaid, known for his role as Hughie Campbell on The Boys, has openly embraced the label of “nepo baby,” acknowledging his privileged background due to his famous parents, Meg Ryan and Dennis Quaid. The 32-year-old actor recently shared his thoughts on the subject with The Daily Beast, reflecting on the advantages and challenges that come with his family connections.
“I mean, no matter what I do, people are going to call attention to it. People have called me a ‘nepo baby,’” Jack said. “I’m inclined to agree. I am an immensely privileged person, was able to get representation pretty early on, and that’s more than half the battle. I knew the door was open for me in a lot of ways that it’s just not for a lot of actors. And I’ve just tried to work as hard as I possibly can to prove that I deserve to walk through that door. So if that’s in the rom-com space, it’s got to be different enough, and I need to work my ass off.”
His mother, Meg Ryan, defended him against the label last year in an interview with Glamour. She expressed her frustration with the term “nepo baby,” feeling it undermined her son’s hard work and talent. “That nepo stuff is so dismissive of his work ethic, his gifts, and how sensitive he is to the idea of his privilege,” she said.
Responding to his mother’s comments, Jack acknowledged her protective nature but also agreed with the broader sentiment. “Yeah, I saw that too. My first thought was like, she’s being a mom. She’s being a loving mom,” he explained. “But I don’t think she’s trying to say that I’m not a nepo baby. I think she’s just trying to say that, in her opinion, it undermines my talent. I don’t think it undermines my talent. I know that I work hard, and I know I’ve heard ‘no’ way more than I’ve heard ‘yes.’ But I also know that this industry is insanely hard to break into, and I had an easier time doing that than most. Both things can be true. So no, I don’t think she was trying to say that I’m not a privileged person. She knows. She must know. I think she was being a mom.”
Jack’s father, Dennis Quaid, is also a well-known actor, adding to the perception of Jack’s career being influenced by his family’s status. Despite this, Jack emphasizes his commitment to proving himself through his work. He acknowledges the doors that were opened for him but insists on earning his place in the industry through dedication and hard work.
The term “nepo baby” has been a hot topic in Hollywood, referring to the children of celebrities who pursue careers in the entertainment industry. While some may see it as a pejorative term that discounts their efforts, Jack Quaid’s candid acceptance of the label and his understanding of his privileged position offer a refreshing perspective. He balances appreciation for the opportunities his background has provided with a clear-eyed acknowledgment of the hard work required to succeed in the competitive world of acting.
Jack Quaid’s reflections on his career and the influence of his famous parents highlight the complex dynamics of privilege and effort in Hollywood. By embracing the “nepo baby” label while continuing to prove his talent and work ethic, he sets an example for others navigating similar paths in the entertainment industry.
