Why does Ben Stiller believe that being a ‘nepo-baby’ is not a shame?

The actor and director Ben Stiller stated that the “nepo-baby” label (a popular term for children of celebrities who enter the entertainment industry) does not need to be seen as something derogatory, but rather as a selling point.

In an interview with the program The Howard Stern Show, Stiller compared the phenomenon to the “Brat Pack” generation of the eighties: “The New York Magazine created the term and then it became fashionable, but this has always existed in life and in humanity”, he said.

He added: “It’s like a Stradivarius violin that’s been in the family for hundreds of years. It becomes a selling point.”

Stiller also acknowledged the opposing arguments. “But I understand that there are other discussions to be had about access and all these things,” he said, opening space for a broader debate about privilege and opportunity.

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Inheritance, privilege and responsibility

Stiller is currently in the spotlight to promote the documentary Stiller & Meara: Nothing Is Lostwhich honors his parents, Jerry Stiller and Anne Mearaboth comedy legends. He recalled that, despite family connections, what motivated him was “growing up around this, seeing the darker side of the industry, the pressure on relationships”, and still deciding to move on.

When talking about his children pursuing artistic careers, Stiller commented on the cyclical nature of the phenomenon: “Having children who are now actors too… this becomes part of the film, talking to them about how these things pass from generation to generation”.

In addition to raising questions about nepotism, legacy and privilege in Hollywood, Stiller & Meara: Nothing Is Lostdocumentary directed by Ben Stiller brings the filmmaker diving into the archive of more than 100 hours of recordings of his parents, Jerry Stiller and Anne Mearato honestly reveal family heritage, the sacrifices of fame, and the price of intergenerational comedy. The documentary is available on Apple TV.

Watch the documentary trailer:

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