Insights from Hopper Penn and Dylan Penn on Nepotism in Hollywood
Hopper Penn and Dylan Penn, the offspring of acclaimed actor Sean Penn, recently shared their thoughts on the implications of being born into a famous family in the entertainment industry. Dylan expressed her feelings candidly in an interview with W, stating, “I can see being really pissed that I got this role, as someone else,” after her father directed her in the 2021 drama Flag Day. She acknowledged that as a professional actress, the challenges of a long journey of auditions and facing continuous rejections have shaped her perspective on the industry.
Dylan also addressed the controversy surrounding her brother’s involvement in a short film directed by the daughter of filmmaker Steven Spielberg. She emphasized the reality of the industry: “This is the business. It is about who you know. Always. Whether you’re the son of Sean Penn or not.” This statement highlights the importance of networking and connections in achieving success in Hollywood, regardless of familial ties.
Hopper, who made his acting debut in his father’s film The Last Face, shared his thoughts with E! News in February about the ongoing discussion regarding nepotism. He remarked, “I’m like, ‘If you like it, cool. If you don’t, great.’” He recently completed filming Devil’s Peak alongside his mother, Robin Wright. Hopper believes that opinions about nepotism do not concern him. He is determined to approach his craft with professionalism, stating, “I’m gonna do the work just as professional as everybody else, and I’m not gonna come there and do it half-ass because I’m working with my dad, I’m working with my mom.’
Reflecting on his collaborative experience with his father, Hopper described it as the same “great nightmare” faced by all actors, whether or not they are related to the director. This candid admission underscores the universal pressures and expectations that exist within the film industry, regardless of one’s background. He added, “if I messed up on the film the first day, I’d be fired just like everyone else. Or, if I was terrible, I’ll be terrible. And I have been terrible.” This honesty reveals the high standards that actors are held to and the competitive nature of the profession.
