In recent years, the public has increasingly adopted a disdain for the common “nepo baby.” The average person barely receives a second glance, let alone consideration of their talents and hardwork, because they are in the shadow of nepo babies. This category of famous celebrities can attribute their success to their parents. Whether it be through fame, connections in the industries, or money; their parents give them a huge leg up in whatever industry they strive to be a part of. However, it can be argued that some nepo babies are deserving of their fame. Many argue that as long as the person is good at what they do, who cares if they’re a nepo baby? It is much worse to be a talentless, no good professional that uses their family’s name. Yet, what happens when a nepo baby is not outstanding or a complete disappointment, but mediocre. Their entire lives, their parents and community has poured into their interests only for the “star” to be completely average, ordinary like the rest.
Gracie Abrams, a singer and songwriter, has reached a considerable amount of success with songs such as “I love you, I’m Sorry,” and “That’s so True.” Fans find her music relatable, rich, and authentic. The notable guitar hymns in the background spark passion in the listener as they feel the frustrations of the lyrics. Despite Abrams skilful songwriting and masterful guitar playing, she faces backlash of being a nepo baby as her father, J.J. Abrams is a longtime producer, screenwriter, and director.
Abrams has come under fire recently for her breathing technique during live performances. In December of 2024, Abrams performed, “That’s So True,” on Saturday Night Live. The performance was criticized as listeners noticed harsh inhales coming from the singer’s throat rather than the diaphragm. The noisy and disruptive breathing took away from the song and led many to believe that Abrams lacked training. It is certain that a singer who is invited onto the show should maintain proper breathing control. However, it seems that Abrams has completely forgo that expectation. Despite her talent, it is clear that Abrams could benefit from further training and many argue that if she were not a nepo baby, she would not have reached her current success.
There are many musicians who experience the title, “nepo baby,” in their career such as Miley Cyrus and Billie Eillish. However, their diligence, stunning performances, and iconic lyricism have caused them to shine in a way that forgoes the nepo baby claims. It is obvious to say that many artists would not be where they are without industry help through family members, but it comes with balance. If a nepo baby shines bright with their allotted help and does not forgo their aid, they can be loved by the public. If a nepo baby claims to be completely self-made, they are deemed as arrogant and delusional. Nepo baby is a term that would not be coined without an obvious pattern, but as listeners pay closer attention to the family name, they can decide whether an artist is worthy of their support.