Lately, there has been plenty of discussion surrounding nepotism in the realm of Hollywood. However, it's not just actors, directors, and writers who leverage their family connections. This phenomenon is pervasive, from instances like a doctor using their network to secure a prestigious medical fellowship for their daughter, to an aspiring mortgage broker obtaining a job through their aunt's managerial position. Remarkably, even a few American Presidents have been born into privilege, referred to as "Nepo Babies." Nonetheless, while real estate agents and lawyers globally may assist their relatives, the public tends to perceive it uniquely when the affluent and renowned engage in such practices.
Even if a well-known individual doesn't actively pave the way for their child, their name, reputation, or recognizable traits can facilitate entry into the entertainment industry. This is particularly evident in the realm of modeling, where favorable genetics are essential, and longstanding connections can foster unwavering loyalty.
Attempting to enumerate every genetically fortunate celebrity offspring who has entered modeling would be an impossible task. Thus, we've excluded from our compilation those models whose parents have gained fame in other domains like acting or music. This grouping encompasses personalities like Kendall Jenner, Ellery Harper, Meadow Walker, Dylan and Paris Brosnan, Cordell Broadus, Iris Law, Eve Jobs, among numerous others.
Instead, our focus rests on individuals whose parents have also pursued modeling careers. This approach also led us to omit distant relatives such as Christy Turlington's accomplished model nephew, James. Presented here, in no specific order, are some of the most notable models who've followed in the footsteps of their illustrious parents.
Lily Rose-Depp
While her acting career drew the majority of attention, especially her contributions to the often criticized HBO series "The Idol," Lily-Rose Depp remains primarily recognized as a model. Although her father, Johnny Depp, undoubtedly possesses insights into the realm of screen presence, Lily-Rose also has access to expertise in modeling through her mother, Vanessa Paradis.
Paradis, in addition to her singing and acting pursuits, initially gained prominence at the age of 14 for her musical talents. Yet, she is equally distinguished as a prominent model with an enduring collaboration with Chanel spanning decades. Notably, she served as a muse for Chanel's haute couture collection in 2023.
Her inaugural advertisement for the brand dates back to 1991, a pivotal moment that propelled her into the limelight as a young model. Undoubtedly, it holds a unique significance for her that her daughter Lily-Rose has not only embraced the modeling profession but has also become a face of Chanel. She stepped into her initial fashion shoot in 2015 when she was merely 15 years old and primarily identified as "Johnny Depp's daughter."
This Oyster magazine photoshoot subsequently paved the way for Rose-Depp's runway premiere the ensuing year at the Parisian Chanel Metiers d'Arts event. By that juncture, she had already been recognized as a model for Chanel eyewear and the fragrance Chanel No.5 L'Eau. Since then, she has participated in numerous other Chanel campaigns and risen as a frequent choice for magazine covers. Notably, she has graced the covers of publications like Vogue Australia, Elle, and W Magazine, among others.
Leni Klum
Leni's mother Heidi Klum's recognition stems from her roles as host and executive producer of shows like "Project Runway," "Making the Cut," and "Germany's Next Top Model," not to mention her six-season tenure as a judge on "America's Got Talent." Prior to her iconic "I'm sorry, you're out" moments on "Project Runway," Heidi had already achieved household fame through her remarkable modeling journey.
Emerging as a German talent, Heidi embarked on her modeling career in 1993, a year after triumphing in a contest featuring 25,000 contestants, which awarded her a significant contract with Metropolitan Models. She graced the covers of nearly every prominent fashion publication, including the illustrious Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition. Furthermore, she spent 13 years as a model for Victoria's Secret, notably being a part of the "Angel" lineup from 1999 to 2010.
In her personal life, Heidi is a mother of four, with three of her children being fathered by singer Seal, who also adopted Leni, Heidi's child from a previous relationship. Heidi opted to delay Leni's foray into modeling until she turned 16. Despite her successful and burgeoning career, the now 19-year-old Leni manages a balanced life, pursuing both modeling and her education.
While there's an undeniable aspect of family connections at play, as evidenced by Leni's debut on a Vogue Germany cover alongside her mother, she has certainly been making her mark since stepping onto the scene. Although she may not share her mother's height (measuring 5'4"), Leni makes a striking impression in photographs. She holds beauty endorsements with brands like Dior and GHD, and her presence has graced the covers of magazines such as Harper's Bazaar Germany, Glamour Germany, and Flaunt.
Gigi and Bella Hadid (And Bother Anwar)
When it comes to model siblings, the Hadids, particularly Gigi and Bella, command a central place. The trio of Hadid siblings has ascended beyond the accomplishments of their mother, Yolanda, not to downplay her impressive career but to underscore the astronomical achievements of her children.
Prior to her role on "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," Yolanda held a prominent status as a sought-after model with a global presence. Her journey began when she was discovered by Eileen Ford at the age of 16, stepping in for a colleague at a hair show in Amsterdam — the inception of a legendary tale. For 15 years, Yolanda graced the modeling world before stepping away to focus on raising her offspring.
Remarkably, the offspring she nurtured have achieved remarkable pinnacles within the industry she temporarily left behind. Gigi and Bella stand as two of the world's highest-earning models. Gigi boasts an impressive repertoire, encompassing over 35 global Vogue covers, iconic runway appearances for renowned brands like Chanel and Versace, and her role as a Victoria's Secret Angel, among other significant milestones.
Bella, the younger sibling, has lent her visage to campaigns for esteemed fashion houses, including Bulgari and Dior. She made waves as part of the viral Coperni spray-on dress sensation and has carved a name for herself on the runway as well. Much like her sister Gigi, Bella has graced the covers of Vogue on numerous occasions, even securing a place on the coveted "Big 4" editions. Notably, their brother Anwar also embraces the modeling realm, having participated in campaigns for esteemed names like Valentino and Tommy Hilfiger, solidifying his presence in the industry.