Hollywood is often called a “small world,” and when you look at the surprising family connections between celebrities, it’s easy to see why. From cousins to siblings and distant relatives, the entertainment industry is packed with stars who share a family tree. Here’s a deep dive into some of the most unexpected celebrity relationships that will leave you saying, “I had no idea they were related!”
1. Julia Roberts and Emma Roberts
It might not be too surprising to learn that Emma Roberts, known for her roles in Blackwhiplash “American Horror Story” and “Scream Queens,” is the niece of Julia Roberts, the Oscar-winning actress of “Pretty Woman” and “Erin Brockovich.” Emma’s father, Eric Roberts, is Julia’s brother. Despite family ups and downs, the two actresses share a strong bond and have even shared the red carpet on several occasions.
2. Rashida Jones and Quincy Jones
Rashida Jones, star of “Parks and Recreation” and “The Office,” is the daughter of legendary music producer Quincy Jones. Quincy is best known for producing Michael Jackson’s iconic albums and composing numerous film scores. Rashida’s talent for acting and writing is complemented by her father’s legacy in the music industry.
3. Jason Sudeikis and George Wendt
Fans of “Ted Lasso” might be surprised to learn that Jason Sudeikis is the nephew of George Wendt, best known as Norm from “Cheers.” The comedic talent clearly runs in the family, with both men carving out successful careers in television comedy.
4. Lily Allen and Alfie Allen
Singer Lily Allen and actor Alfie Allen, who gained fame as Theon Greyjoy on “Game of Thrones,” are siblings. Lily even wrote a cheeky song about her brother titled “Alfie,” where she humorously criticized his laid-back lifestyle before he became a household name.
5. Brandy and Snoop Dogg
R&B singer Brandy and rapper Snoop Dogg are first cousins. Both have achieved tremendous success in their respective music genres, with Snoop being a rap icon and Brandy dominating the 1990s R&B scene. The two have spoken fondly of their family connection in interviews.
6. Nicolas Cage and Sofia Coppola
Nicolas Cage, known for his eclectic acting roles, is part of the famous Coppola family. His birth name is Nicolas Kim Coppola, and he is the nephew of acclaimed director Francis Ford Coppola and cousin to Sofia Coppola, the director of “Lost in Translation.” Cage changed his last name early in his career to avoid accusations of nepotism.
7. Dakota Johnson and Melanie Griffith
Dakota Johnson, star of the “Fifty Shades of Grey” series, is the daughter of Melanie Griffith and Don Johnson. Melanie, known for her roles in “Working Girl” and “Something Wild,” passed on her Hollywood legacy to Dakota, who is now a star in her own right.
8. Carrie Fisher and Billie Lourd
The late Carrie Fisher, famous for playing Princess Leia in “Star Wars,” was the mother of Billie Lourd, who has starred in “American Horror Story” and “Booksmart.” Billie has honored her mother’s legacy by appearing in the “Star Wars” sequel trilogy as Lieutenant Connix.
9. Chris Pine and Robert Pine
Chris Pine, best known as Captain Kirk in the “Star Trek” reboot films, is the son of Robert Pine, who starred in the classic TV series “CHiPs.” The father-son duo shares strikingly similar features and a natural knack for acting.
10. Blake Lively and Robyn Lively
Blake Lively, star of “Gossip Girl” and “A Simple Favor,” is the younger sister of Robyn Lively, who appeared in “Teen Witch” and “Twin Peaks.” The two actresses are part of a tight-knit family, with both enjoying successful careers in Hollywood.
11. Angelina Jolie and Jon Voight
Angelina Jolie’s acting chops come as no surprise when you learn she’s the daughter of Academy Award-winning actor Jon Voight. While the two have had a complicated relationship over the years, they share undeniable talent and a passion for their craft.
12. Jake Gyllenhaal and Maggie Gyllenhaal
Jake and Maggie Gyllenhaal are not just Hollywood stars but also siblings. Jake, known for his roles in “Donnie Darko” and “Nightcrawler,” and Maggie, acclaimed for “The Dark Knight” and “Secretary,” have both earned critical acclaim for their work.
13. Kate Hudson and Goldie Hawn
Kate Hudson, beloved for her roles in romantic comedies like “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days,” is the daughter of Goldie Hawn. Goldie, a Hollywood icon in her own right, starred in classics like “Overboard” and “Private Benjamin.” The mother-daughter duo frequently shares their love for one another on social media.
14. Zoë Kravitz and Lenny Kravitz
Zoë Kravitz, known for her roles in “Big Little Lies” and “The Batman,” is the daughter of musician Lenny Kravitz and actress Lisa Bonet. With parents as cool as hers, it’s no wonder Zoë exudes charisma and talent.
15. Chris Hemsworth and Liam Hemsworth
The Hemsworth brothers are both major stars, with Chris known for playing Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Liam for his role in “The Hunger Games” series. The Australian actors often support each other’s projects and share a close bond.
16. Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci
While not directly related by blood, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci are family through marriage. Tucci, known for his roles in “The Devil Wears Prada” and “The Hunger Games,” is married to Emily’s sister, Felicity Blunt. The two actors share a mutual admiration for each other.
17. Kiefer Sutherland and Donald Sutherland
Kiefer Sutherland, best known for his role as Jack Bauer in “24,” is the son of legendary actor Donald Sutherland. The father-son duo has even appeared together in films, showcasing their shared acting prowess.
18. Drew Barrymore and the Barrymore Dynasty
Drew Barrymore comes from a long line of actors, with her grandfather John Barrymore being one of the most celebrated actors of his time. Drew, known for her roles in “E.T.” and “The Wedding Singer,” has carried on the family’s Hollywood legacy.
19. Gwyneth Paltrow and Blythe Danner
Oscar-winning actress Gwyneth Paltrow is the daughter of Blythe Danner, an accomplished actress known for her roles in “Meet the Parents” and “Will & Grace.” The two have appeared together at numerous events and share a strong family bond.
20. Laura Dern and Diane Ladd
Laura Dern, known for her roles in “Jurassic Park” and “Big Little Lies,” is the daughter of Diane Ladd, an accomplished actress with a career spanning decades. The two have acted together in films, including “Wild at Heart” and “Rambling Rose.”
21. Ron Howard and Bryce Dallas Howard
Director Ron Howard, known for films like “A Beautiful Mind” and “Apollo 13,” is the father of actress Bryce Dallas Howard. Bryce has starred in “Jurassic World” and “The Help,” continuing the Howard family’s legacy in Hollywood.
22. Al Roker and Lenny Kravitz
Surprisingly, Al Roker, the beloved weather anchor, and Lenny Kravitz, the rock star, are distant cousins. The two discovered their connection through genealogical research and have since shared their family pride publicly.
23. Steve Irwin’s Family Legacy
The late Steve Irwin, known as the Crocodile Hunter, passed on his love for wildlife to his children, Bindi and Robert Irwin. Both have continued their father’s work, becoming prominent conservationists and TV personalities in their own right.
24. Tony Goldwyn and Samuel Goldwyn
Tony Goldwyn, best known for his role as President Fitz Grant on “Scandal,” is the grandson of Samuel Goldwyn, a legendary film producer and co-founder of MGM Studios. Tony has upheld his family’s name with his work in film and television.
25. Maya Rudolph and Minnie Riperton
Maya Rudolph, the comedic actress from “Saturday Night Live” and “Bridesmaids,” is the daughter of the late Minnie Riperton, a renowned singer best known for her hit song “Lovin’ You.” Maya has spoken about how her mother’s music inspired her own creative journey.
Hollywood is full of family connections that reveal how talent and creativity often run in the blood. From siblings to distant cousins, these relationships add an extra layer of intrigue to the stories of our favorite stars.
