Actor Pierce Brosnan and his son Paris have addressed nepo-baby commentary following Paris' decision to follow his father into acting.
Speaking in a joint interview with The Sunday Times magazine, the 73-year-old James Bond star said he does not want their family name tangled up in any tawdry suggestions that Paris should not be an actor because of his parentage.
Brosnan explained that if his son has a passion and desire for the craft, he must pursue it. He revealed that he advised Paris to train and study if he wants to act, noting that his son is eager to do so and has already completed a film.
"Consequently he has made a film now and he's good," Pierce told the publication. "I told him if he wants to be an actor he must train and study, and he wants to do those things. I don't allow myself or him to get tangled up in any tawdry suggestion that because I am his father he should not become an actor, if that is his destiny. If you have a passion and a desire to do the work, you must do it."
Hollywood debut and acting advice
Paris got his first experience on a movie set in 2023 while his father was filming the Western movie The Unholy Trinity. The film's director invited Pierce's sons to appear in the project, prompting Paris and his brother Dylan to take on roles playing cowboys.
Pierce recalled watching Paris during production, saying he could see how much his son revelled in being on camera. However, the veteran actor previously admitted to having reservations about his children entering the entertainment industry.
In a 2022 interview with GQ magazine, Pierce revealed he had originally tried to dissuade his children from pursuing acting due to the intense demands of the profession. "Just because it is f***ing hard work," Pierce said at the time. "It's a cross to bear. You're constructing and destroying yourself."
Pierce Brosnan is best known for portraying British secret agent James Bond in four films between 1995 and 2002, including GoldenEye and Die Another Day. Beyond his iconic spy role, the Irish actor built a prolific Hollywood career spanning drama, action, and musical films.
Acknowledging privilege and building a legacy
Addressing the broader conversation around nepotism in Hollywood, 25-year-old Paris acknowledged the distinct advantages that come with being the son of a famous actor. He stressed that while he is fortunate to share his father's name, he is determined that his art must carry its own weight.
"I'm so fortunate that I have my dad's name but I want my art to carry its own weight," Paris said in the joint interview. "I absolutely need to acknowledge the privilege that comes with being my father's son but then show up and do the work. He has told me to follow my heart. His No 1 rule is just to be kind to yourself and others."
When asked if he could ever see himself taking on the role of James Bond, Paris ruled out the possibility. He stated that he would leave the iconic part to his father and focus instead on forging his own legacy.
The search for a new Bond actor has been active since Daniel Craig stepped down from the role in 2021 after starring in five 007 films. Actor Jack Lowden is currently considered the favourite to replace Craig in the franchise.
Speaking with the Daily Mail at Clarins' Night of Extra soiree earlier this year, Paris sent well-wishes to whoever lands the role. Over two decades after his father first played the character, Paris weighed in on the actor destined to utter Bond's famous line: "Wish him the best."
Art career and Mayfair debut
In addition to dabbling in acting and securing an upcoming screen role, Paris has focused heavily on a career in fine art. Born to Pierce and documentary filmmaker Keely Shaye Smith, Paris produces artworks described as mysterious and unique, which he regularly shares on Instagram.
Paris recently made his UK art debut in London with a collection titled Collective Energy at Clarendon Fine Art in Mayfair. The exhibition opened on Thursday, February 26, showcasing artwork exploring human connection, energy, and shared experiences.
Pierce travelled to London to support his son at the gallery and promoted the event on social media. "So proud of you @paris.brosnan 'COLLECTIVE ENERGY' Thursday, 26th February Clarendon Fine Art Mayfair, UK," Pierce wrote on Instagram, inviting fans to experience his son's vibrant work.
Paris praised his father's support during the exhibition launch. "He's incredible. We were just in London," Paris explained. "I did my first debut exhibition there, and it was great. He came to support me."
Mayfair, an affluent district in London's West End, is renowned for its commercial art galleries, luxury shopping, and high-profile exhibitions, making it a prominent destination for international art debuts.
Humanitarian work in Sri Lanka
Outside of art and acting, Paris has also engaged in international charitable work. He traveled to Sri Lanka alongside cosmetics company Clarins to work with the United Nations World Food Programme on food security initiatives.
During the trip, Paris collaborated with Lauren Bush, the granddaughter of former U.S. President George H.W. Bush, through her FEED Project organization.
"I love Clarins. I started working with them almost like seven, eight years ago now, and we went on a trip to Sri Lanka," Paris told the Daily Mail. "We did a work with the World Food Program, and Lauren Bush, Lauren from FEED, and it was an incredible trip. An incredible experience with the World Food Program."
The World Food Programme is the food-assistance branch of the United Nations, assisting millions of people worldwide facing hunger and poverty. Paris' humanitarian efforts and focus on fine art demonstrate how he is establishing an identity independent of his father's Hollywood stardom.
