The entertainment world has massive influence on the world as it is, which makes it easy to perceive it as a huge world on its own with a more special set of citizens. However, it’s actually a lot smaller than most people think. As a matter of fact, many stars actually have more in common with their fellow celebrities than just large bank accounts—their often superior genes, for ones. Here are some of the most surprising connections in Hollywood today.
Julia Roberts and Emma Roberts - Aunt/niece
Roberts is a common enough name, which is why not many would immediately connect actresses Julia Roberts and Emma Roberts. They are, in fact, aunt and niece as Emma is the daughter of actor Eric Roberts, who is Julia’s brother. Emma is currently one of the industry’s most bankable actresses today, but the real question is will she ever reach the level of her aunt’s massive bank account?
Marlon Brando and Tuki Brando -
Grandfather/grandson
If the good looks weren't indication enough, may be the surname should have been a clear sign that fashion model Tuki Brando and late actor Marlon Brando were related. It is said that the two did not share a cordial relationship, as reportedly, The Godfather actor left his grandson nothing in his will when he passed away in 2004. Tuki was orphaned at age 5 when his mom (and Brando's daughter) Cheyenne Brando killed herself, while his father was murdered a month before he was born, and the murderer was none other than Cheyenne's half brother! Tuki was raised by his maternal grandmother and Brando's third and last wife, Tarita Teriipaia, and is said to be very close to her.
Gwyneth Paltrow and Katherine Moennig - First cousins
We all know that Gwyneth Paltrow comes from a great acting dynasty with her mom being actress Blythe Danner and her dad being famed filmmaker Bruce Paltrow. However, stardom is also manifest in another branch of the family as Gwyn is actually first cousins with The L Word actress Katherine Moennig, who is the daughter of Blythe’s half-brother. So this is one family who is not only rich in net worth, but is even richer in talent.
Paul Burke and Alia Shawkat - Grandfather/granddaughter
Actress Alia Shawkat is best known for being a part of the cast of Arrested Development. What most people do not know is that her acting roots go deep as her granddad is actor Paul Burke, a celebrated television star in the 60s with shows like Twelve O'Clock High to his credit.
Rip Torn and Sissy Spacek - Cousins
Actress Sissy Spacek’s formidable acting talent was honed when she attended the Lee Strasberg Institute, a popular breeding ground for young talent. She was able to attend such a film school with the help of her cousin, veteran actor Rip Torn. It can definitely be argued that Rip gave Sissy the much-needed leg-up in the industry.
Jenny McCarthy and Melissa McCarthy - First cousins
The last names should actually be a dead giveaway, but not many people make the connection that actresses Jenny McCarthy and Melissa McCarthy are actually first cousins. This is likely because their respective time in the limelight has a gap of several years. However, to give them both credit, they are both excellent comedians, which should have been another giveaway.
Ariana Grande and Frankie J. Grande - Siblings
Frankie is a TV personality and dancer who started out in Big Brother season 16 as a contestant and it was there that he revealed that he was singer Ariana Grande's brother. The family name itself should have been a give-away. Of course, Ariana is the more famous of the two siblings who also started out on TV but went on to become a popular singer. Recently, Frankie tweeted a few kind words about his sister's ex-boyfriend, rapper Mac Miller, who reportedly died of a drug overdose.
Blake Lively and Robyn Lively - Sisters
Blake Lively is one A-list actress who we all thought we know inside-out because of her constant presence in social media. However, many are still surprised to find out that she is not the only actress in her family. In fact, her sister, Robyn Lively, who is 15 years older, has already been in the industry as far back as the late 80s. Technically half-sisters, they both benefited from their mother, Elaine’s beauty.
Jonah Hill and Beanie Feldstein - Siblings
Beanie Feldstein is one of today’s up-and-coming actresses, wowing the audiences with her performance in Lady Bird. It soon came to light that her Hollywood roots are a lot more substantial as her brother is an even more famous actor, Jonah Hill. They can claim to be full siblings, as well, even if Jonah is not using their real last name, Feldstein.
Beyoncé and Bianca Lawson - Step-sisters
Singer Beyonce Knowles has some pretty talented people in her family, and no, we are not just talking about her husband, rapper Jay Z or her sister, singer Solange. We are referring to actress Bianca Lawson, who has acted in popular TV series such as Pretty Little Liars, The Vampire Diaries, Sister, Sister, and Dawson's Creek among others. That's right, Bianca and Beyonce are step sisters, as her dad, actor Richard Lawson, married Queen Bey's mom Tina Knowles. Certainly a modern family situation here, as the step sisters are cordial with each other, with no animosity in sight.
Brigitte Bardot and Anne Charrier - Grandmother/granddaughter
One of Brigitte Bardot's grandchildren, Anne Charrier, is following in the bombshell's footsteps and has joined the acting world. The French actress' career started in the theater, and she eventually moved to television and films. Anne is the daughter of Nicolas-Jacques Charrier, Bardot's one and only child. It's obvious from this photo that aside from acting skills, Anne has also inherited some of her famous grandmother's features.
Jennifer Lawrence and Jeremy Renner - Fifth Cousins
Actress Jennifer Lawrence was often asked if she's related to celebrities with the same last name like Martin Lawrence and Joey Lawrence, as well as with famous people who look a lot like her, like Bella Hadid. She isn't related to these celebrities, but who would have thought she's actually related to actor Jeremy Renner. The discovery of the two being fifth cousins was just by accident, when genealogists were trying to find out if Lawrence was related to her Hunger Games co-star Josh Hutcherson. Coincidentally, both play notable characters in movies who are skilled in archery - Lawrence in Hunger Games, while Jeremy Renner plays superhero Hawkeye in Marvel's Avengers movie franchise.
Jason Momoa and Zoë Kravitz - Stepdad/stepdaughter
Zoë Kravitz is already quite lucky, being able to claim a formidable lineage from father Lenny Kravitz and mom Lisa Bonet. It doesn’t end there, however, as this also means that she calls actor Jason Momoa of Game of Thrones and Aquaman fame as her stepdad as he is married to Lisa.
Gregory Peck and Ethan Peck - Grandfather/grandson
Ethan Peck is one of today’s fast-rising stars and is currently seen starring in the TV series, 10 Things I Hate About You. Many have marveled at his classic good looks, and for good reason, as he is actually the grandchild of none other than legendary actor, Gregory Peck! Perhaps he’ll be achieving his granddad’s large net worth and acclaim in the future.
Kate Middleton and Dakota and Elle Fanning - Distant cousins
Actresses and sisters Dakota and Elle Fanning seem to be real life Hollywood princesses with Elle even flawlessly portraying one in Maleficent. The reason that this comes so naturally to them is that they can actually trace their lineage to royalty—most specifically, King Edward III of England. However, the sisters are not the only celebrities who can claim this lineage as true-blue royal Duchess Catherine of Cambridge (real name Kate Middleton) is also directly descended from the same king.
Hilary Duff and Queen Elizabeth II - 18th cousins
One-time teen queen Hilary Duff has always kept it relevant and stayed up with the times to have us all interested in knowing 'What's she up to now?' The curiosity is probably what got people interested in conducting a genealogy study for Duff and as it turns out, she's royalty! Well, sort of. She is actually the 18th cousin of the current reigning monarch of Britain, Queen Elizabeth II. Duff is related to two people who have royal blood; Catherine Car, who may have been Henry VIII's illegitimate daughter and Alexander Spotswood, Edward III's 10th grandson. So can we expect a chair to be laid out for Duff at the next royal Christmas dinner? Let's not hold our breaths.
Rob Schneider and Elle King - Father/daughter
Elle King is the hit-maker behind the catchy song, Ex's & Oh’s. That’s not her first claim to fame, however, as she is actually the daughter of actor and comedian Rob Schneider. She chose not to use his last name so she can make her own way in the industry, but the family resemblance is unmistakable.
Ron Howard and Clint Howard - Brothers
If you have followed the career of actor-director Ron Howard, you might have noticed a familiar face that keeps appearing in the many movies he has made. That face is none other than that of actor Clint Howard, who, in case you don't know, is Ron's younger brother. And even before the character actor appeared in movies that Ron directed, Clint first appeared alongside Ron in the TV series The Andy Griffith Show. The show is the award-winning director's biggest acting break, where he starred as Opie Taylor, the son of Andy Griffith's character, Andy Taylor. Clint visited his elder brother on set wearing a cowboy outfit, and the director cast him as Leon, the sandwich-offering boy in a cowboy suit.
Tex Ritter and Jason Ritter Grandfather/grandson
Actor Jason Ritter of Parenthood fame is well known for being the son of another actor, John Ritter, who was a huge star in the 80s. What most people don’t know is that fame and the huge bank account that goes with it have actually been in the family far longer in the form of Tex Ritter, the famous “singing cowboy” who starred in Western movies between the 30s and 60s.
Margaux Hemingway and Dree Hemingway - Aunt/niece
Of course, the last name Hemingway is a dead giveaway that these two are descendants of celebrated writer, Ernest Hemingway. What’s most interesting here is that these two women, separated by a generation, both pursued lucrative careers as fashion models. Considering the Hemingways’ infamous penchant for taking their lives through suicide, which claimed the lives of both Margaux and her grandfather, Ernest, we can only hope that Dree does not show any signs of depression and follows suit.
George Wendt and Jason Sudeikis - Uncle/nephew
Jason Sudeikis is one actor who is currently enjoying the spoils of comedy in both fame and net worth. He is not the first one in his family to do so, however. In fact, Jason only followed in the footsteps of his uncle, George Wendt, who spent some time in the limelight when he starred in Cheers back in the 80s, among others.
Edie Sedgwick and Kyra Sedgwick - First cousins
We can’t help but marvel at actress Kyra Sedgwick’s beauty, which must really run in the family as this particular blonde, waif-like look was originally made famous by her cousin, model Edie Sedgwick, who most flower children know and love as Andy Warhol’s muse. While Edie struggled with substance abuse for most of her life and passed away in 1971, Kyra, on the other hand, is living a more stable life with husband, actor Kevin Bacon.
Jessica Capshaw and Steven Spielberg - Stepfather/stepchild
We all know Jessica Capshaw as a fine actress who is one of the stars of Grey’s Anatomy. She is, in fact, the daughter of actress Kate Capshaw, who is married to legendary filmmaker, Steven Spielberg. It seems that Jessica is definitely not enjoying any preferential treatment, though, as she is yet to appear in one of her stepdad’s movies.
Prince Charles and Ralph Fiennes - Distant cousins
Actor Ralph Fiennes is not only a fine actor, but he is quite a regal presence both in the movies and on stage. It’s not a surprise, therefore, that he actually has royal blood that can be traced back to James II of Scotland from the 1400s. Another notable who can claim the same lineage is none other than Prince Charles, and this makes the next in line to the British throne and Ralph eighth cousins.
Amy Schumer and Chuck Schumer - Distant cousins
Amy Schumer is one of today’s most successful comedians while Chuck Schumer is a senator from New York. Apart from their last name, they do not really have anything else in common, right? Wrong. They are, in fact, actually cousins separated by several degrees. In fact, Amy has even publicly defended Chuck when he came under fire sometime last year.
*Source: https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/2017/03/143467/are-amy-chuck-schumer-related-cousins
Patti LaBelle and Gia Edwards - Grandmother/Granddaughter
The world took a collective sigh when legendary soul singer Patti LaBelle shared an adorable image of her granddaughter on her Instagram page, wearing designer clothes with a lollipop in hand. The mini-diva herself has an Instagram page where she is often seen in matching outfits with her stylish mother. Patti absolutely dotes on her tiny grandkid and it's easy to see why, she's oh-so-adorable!
Madonna and Hillary Clinton - Distant cousins
Here’s another unlikely relationship that’s sure to blow everyone’s mind—Hillary Clinton and Madonna are distant cousins! To the tenth degree of grandparents, as a matter of fact. For sure, what they have in common ends there, though.
*Source: https://www.dailystar.co.uk/news/latest-news/558586/Hillary-Clinton-Madonna-related-cousins-US-Election-2016-Donald-Trump-White-House-race
Bernie Sanders and Larry David - Distant cousins
Larry David, who we best know as the star of Curb Your Enthusiasm, once appeared in the show Find Your Roots for fun. He was surprised to find out that he had an equally famous relative, who was none other than Senator Bernie Sanders. They turned out to be third-degree cousins!
*Source: http://time.com/4970053/bernie-sanders-larry-david-finding-your-roots-pbs
Bonnie Bedelia and Macaulay Culkin - Aunt/nephew
Actor Macaulay Culkin needs no introduction, but he is not the only famous person in his family. And we’re not talking about his brother, Rory, either, who has also pursued a career in show business. We are actually referring to his aunt, actress Bonnie Bedelia, who we best know for starring opposite Bruce Willis in a couple of Die Hard movies. Bonnie is the sister of Macaulay’s dad, but thankfully doesn’t have her nephew’s substance abuse problem.
Anne Gwynne and Chris Pine - Grandmother/grandson
Chris Pine is one of the finest looking and most talented actors in Hollywood today. No wonder he is quite a sought-after leading man with a growing net worth. But then, considering that his grandmother is none other Anne Gwynne, Hollywood’s original scream queen and popular pin-up girl of the World War II era, we can’t say that we’re surprised as he certainly has the pedigree.
Lily Allen and Alfie Allen - Sister/brother
If Alfie Allen seems familiar whenever he comes on screen in Game of Thrones, that is because he is actually the brother of someone also quite famous—that is to say, his sister, singer Lily Allen. Once you make that connection, you will find that it’s hard to unsee how they share the same distinctive eyes, which really do speak of the degree of familial closeness between the two.
Scott Foley and Patrick Wilson - Brothers-in-law
Actors Scott Foley and Patrick Wilson are two of the handsomest and finest actors in Hollywood today. However, what they have in common does not stop there. They are, in fact, brothers-in-law, married to sisters and actresses Marika Dominczyk and Dagmara Dominczyk, respectively. Amazingly, both pairs are happily married, as well, with no whisper of divorce, which is quite a feat in the industry.
Elvis Presley and Riley Keough - grandfather/Granddaughter
When you see the face of up and coming actress and model Riley Keough, you can't help but think of someone famous. That 'someone' is actually the King of Rock, Elvis Presley. Keough is Elvis' granddaughter, and her mother is Lisa Marie Presley.
Denis Leary and Conan O'Brien - Cousins
The infamous red hair should be telling enough, but not many people would actually make the connection right off the bat that actor Denis Leary and comedian Conan O’Brien are cousins. They are, in fact, cousins of the third degree, so that’s not really what we would call a close relation. However, they do have another thing in common—they both have huge bank accounts in their own rights.
Al Roker and Lenny Kravitz - Cousins
Lenny Kravitz is one of today’s most respected rock stars and hitmakers, while Al Roker is a popular weatherman. Who knew that they were actually cousins? Their familial relationship is actually separated by a couple of degrees as it was their grandfathers who were first cousins, but still, the relationship is definitely there.
John F. Kennedy Jr. and Jack Schlossberg: Uncle and Nephew
People went ga-ga over John F. Kennedy Jr., fondly called John-John or JFK Jr., when he was still alive. The reason for his popularity is quite obvious, because he's so good-looking. Naturally the same thing happened when people saw a grown-up John "Jack" Schlossberg (he's also a Bouvier and Kennedy!), Caroline Kennedy's son and JFK Jr.'s nephew. Jack looks so much like his uncle and people are fascinated by this fact. Schlossberg is currently attending Harvard Law School, just like his grandfather, former US president John F. Kennedy.
*Source: https://us.hola.com/en/celebrities/2018042011808/john-f-kennedy-jr-nephew-twin-new-video
Halle Berry and Sarah Palin - Distant relatives
In 2012, actress Halle Berry made the shocking claim that she is related to Sarah Palin, who was the infamous ex-governor of Alaska and one-time vice-presidential candidate. Details are unclear of exactly how they are related, but for sure, the relationship likely stems from Halle’s mother’s side.
*Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2218544/Halle-Berry-reveals-related-Sarah-Palin.html
Sam Waterston and Katherine Waterston - Father/daughter
Again, the last name is already a giveaway here, but not many would make the connection right away that popular actress Katherine Waterston is the daughter of veteran actor Sam Waterston. Sam is best known for being a cast member in Law & Order for years, while Katherine’s career is gaining momentum as she is one of the main characters of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and its subsequent sequels. It’s definitely easy to see that Katherine is inheriting a lot more than her father’s net worth as she also exhibits great talent.
Walter Huston and Anjelica Huston - Grandfather/granddaughter
Veteran actress Anjelica Huston is, by far, not the first thespian in her family as the Huston acting dynasty has been around since the silent film era of the early 1900s in the form of Walter Huston, who is Anjelica’s grandfather. The acting gene was passed on to Walter’s son and Anjelica’s father, John Huston, and ultimately to Anjelica herself. So is the family’s massive net worth, we’re guessing.
Tom Cruise and William Mapother - First cousins
Tom Cruise is a superstar in his own right, but he does not come from a big Hollywood dynasty like most stars today. However, this doesn’t mean that he is the only actor in his family. Tom, whose real name is Thomas Cruise Mapother IV, is actually the first cousin of fellow actor William Mapother, who we mostly recognize for his stint in the hit series, Lost. William may not enjoy Tom’s massive net worth, but he certainly shares a lot of the talent in the family.
Jack Cassidy and Katie Cassidy - Grandfather/granddaughter
Again, here’s another relationship that should be quite obvious from the get-go, considering that there’s a family name shared. However, not many would make the connection right away that actress Katie Cassidy is not only actor David Cassidy’s daughter, but is also veteran actor Jack Cassidy’s granddaughter. Indeed, there’s truly a transfer of talent at work here.
Grace Kelly and Pauline Ducruet - Grandmother/granddaughter
Pauline Ducruet is a rising star in the fashion industry as a new designer to watch. But what most people do not know is that she is actually royalty, being the daughter of Princess Stéphanie of Monaco. This means that she is the granddaughter of Prince Rainier III of Monaco and, of course, Princess Grace, also known as Grace Kelly. Pauline may not have a claim to the Monaco throne, but to her credit, she is the one who looks most like her iconic grandmother.
Beyoncé and Queen Elizabeth II - Distant Cousins
We always had it in the back of our minds that Beyoncé can be nothing short of royalty, hence the moniker Queen Bey. But as it turns out that the one with the golden voice is related to a Queen. To the Queen of England and the world's longest serving monarch, no less. CBS News gave us this piece of information that Beyoncé is Queen Elizabeth II's 25th cousin, once removed. Now that we know, we wouldn't mind seeing the singer is those Crown Jewels.
Angelina Jolie and Camilla Parker-Bowles - Distant Relatives
As a queen in the movie Alexander, Jolie looked regal with her robes and tiara, of course, she was only acting. But it looks like she is related to the Duchess of Cornwall, who has an actual tiara. Both Angelina and Camilla are descendants of a prominent French-Canadian family which can be traced back to the 17th century. And what else? Two of the biggest singing divas today, Madonna and Celine Dion are also decedents of the same family! What a small world it is, after all.
Robert F. Kennedy and Conor Kennedy - Grandfather/grandson
Conor Kennedy is a familiar name, having made headlines in 2012 when he was briefly Taylor Swift’s boyfriend. What most people do not know is that he is more than just a socialite as he is actually a member of the formidable Kennedy family. Not only that, he has the legit claim of being the grandson of Robert F. Kennedy, who, as we all know, was JFK’s brother.
*Source: https://www.eonline.com/news/340187/taylor-swift-s-boyfriend-five-things-to-know-about-conor-kennedy
Judy Garland and Vanessa Hooker - Grandmother/granddaughter
Vanessa Hooker is one lucky girl, for she calls Grease 2 actress Lorna Luft her mom, singer and Cabaret actress Liza Minnelli her aunt and Wizard of Oz actress Judy Garland her grandmother. Not much is known about Vanessa, but the 28-year-old did make an appearance at a recent Wizard of Oz screening held at New York City, in the memory of her late grandmother.
John Wayne and Jennifer Wayne - Grandfather/Granddaughter
It's not a coincidence that Jennifer Wayne has the same last name as that of a famous yesteryear actor, because they are related by blood. She is John Wayne's granddaughter. Jennifer is making a name for herself in both the fields of music and acting, as she's appeared in a number of TV shows and is a member of the country music group, Runaway June.
Robert Pattinson and Prince William & Prince Harry - Distant cousins
London-born actor Robert Pattinson starred in the Twilight series of movies and became a heartthrob, even though he had no previous ties to Hollywood or the acting business. But, interestingly, he has familial ties with royalty, particularly with Transylvania's Vlad the impaler, who was the inspiration behind Bram Stoker's Dracula. Oddly enough, Britain's Prince William and Prince Harry are also related to Vlad. A little more digging revealed that Pattinson happens to be a far-off cousin of the Princes from their father, Prince Charles' side, connected through the Pickering family from the the early 1500s, who lived in Yorkshire. Oh, and Vlad is a distant uncle of the two princes and Robert.
Christian Bale and Gloria Steinem - Stepmother/stepson
Actor Christian Bale needs no introduction. Neither does celebrated journalist Gloria Steinem. What most people don’t know is that they are actually quite closely connected as Gloria was married to Christian’s dad, making her the actor’s stepmother. Unfortunately, this union ended in divorce, but it seems like there’s no bad blood between the two as Gloria only has praise for her former stepson.
Tippi Hedren and Dakota Johnson - Grandmother/granddaughter
Everyone knows that A-lister Dakota Johnson is the daughter of acting stalwarts Don Johnson and Melanie Griffith, who were big names back in the 80s. However, the family acting dynasty goes on a lot earlier than that in Tippi Hedren, who is Dakota’s grandmother. At the height of her fame, Tippi was also an A-lister, starring in movies like Hitchcock’s The Birds, which is a bona fide classic.
Diana Ross and Jagger Snow Ross - Grandmother/granddaughter
Diana Ross is one American legend who had enthralled generations of her listeners with her singing and acting skills. Her stage performances, along with her many TV and movie roles have ensured that she stays relevant with the times and uses different mediums to connect with her fans. But looks like there is another family member of hers who is getting her share of attention. Meet Jagger Snow Ross, who is Diana's granddaughter born to her son musician Evan Ross and his wife, singer Ashley Simpson. With so much music in her blood, we wonder if the tiny tot will also pick up that mic any time soon.
Hallie Eisenberg and Jesse Eisenberg - Siblings
Jesse Eisenberg is another big star to make it to this list. It comes as a surprise to many that his sister, Hallie Eisenberg, has actually been in the industry well before him. She starred in numerous Pepsi advertising campaigns for some time before she transitioned to acting in movies like Bicentennial Man. Knowing this connection, it’s actually quite easy to see that they look very much alike.
Elizabeth Taylor and Naomi Wilding - Grandmother and Granddaughter
Elizabeth Taylor is an actress who can be considered an American icon. Aside from her acting skills and timeless beauty, she's also known for the foundation she started, The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation. One of the actress' grandchildren, who is actively continuing on her activism is Naomi Wilding, one of the children of Taylor's son, Michael Wilding. She, however, did not follow in the famous footsteps of her grandmother and shunned Hollywood.
Elvis Presley and Benjamin Keough - Grandfather/Grandson
The King of Rock, Elvis Presley, didn't leave behind a male descendant, but his one and only child, Lisa Marie bore a son, Benjamin Keough, who looks so much like the late musician. There is little information about the Elvis lookalike, because unlike his mother and sister (Riley, a model and actress), Benjamin doesn't enjoy the limelight. We wonder, though, if Benjamin inherited his grandfather's singing and dancing skills.
Cameron Diaz and Nicole Richie - Sisters-in-law
Actress Cameron Diaz and reality star Nicole Richie are both very visible figures in Hollywood, especially about a decade ago when they were both at their respective peaks. Despite this, they have always moved in different circles. However, they have become very close of late as they are now virtually sisters, both being married to brothers and Good Charlotte rockers Benji Madden (for Cameron) and Joel Madden (for Nicole). In fact, Nicole can claim to have introduced Cameron to Benji.
Steve McQueen and Steven R. McQueen - Grandfather/grandson
Steven R. McQueen is an up-and-coming actor best known for his role in The Vampire Diaries. Most people just assumed that his name was a coincidence, but it actually isn’t as he can claim to be a direct descendant of legendary actor Steve McQueen, who is actually his grandfather. The late Steve enjoyed a very successful career before his death in 1980, and to the younger Steve’s credit, he’s well on his way there, as well.
Elia Kazan and Zoe Kazan - Grandfather/granddaughter
If you enjoyed the film Ruby Sparks, then you are probably a fan of young actress Zoe Kazan. Her amazing acting talent and skills as a playwright are definitely in-born and inherited from her grandfather, Elia Kazan, who was a legendary director back in the day with films like On the Waterfront and East of Eden to his credit. Zoe even earned her university degree from Yale, just like her granddad.
John Barrymore and Drew Barrymore - Grandfather/grandchild
It can be argued that Drew Barrymore was definitely born a star. After all, she was already a bona fide superstar the moment she first appeared on camera at age three. What most people do not know is that she actually comes from one of the oldest acting dynasties in the industries. This started with her grandfather, John Barrymore, who was a famous stage and film actor in the silent film era with movies Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde and Sherlock Holmes to his credit.
Reba McEntire and Kelly Clarkson - Stepmother/stepdaughter-in-law
Reba McEntire and Kelly Clarkson are both powerhouses of the music industry. However, they actually have more in common than that in the person of Brandon Blackstock who is not only Reba’s stepson, but is also Kelly’s husband. This makes Reba and Kelly in-laws. There may not be any blood relations involved, but the degree of their closeness is unmistakable.
Cary Grant and Jennifer Grant - Father/Daughter
Cary Grant is probably on the top of the list of Hollywood's greatest leading men. Although the actor got married to (and then divorced) several women, he only had one child in his lifetime, a daughter named Jennifer Grant. Jennifer pursued the same career as her father, and she starred in a number of films and tv shows. Her most notable role is probably that of Celeste Lundy in the 90s hit TV show, Beverly Hills, 90210. But who could ever forget her as Nina Bookbinder, Chandler Bing's assistant in an episode of the phenomenal hit TV series, Friends?
Ryan Gosling and Justin Bieber - 11th cousins
Ever since we found out about this blood connection, all thanks to an ancestry tracing website, we have come to believe that Canadian entertainment is run by just one big family. We all know that The Notebook actor and the 'Sorry' singer are Canadian by birth, but they are also related, being 11th cousins, once removed. You see, the two handsome men share common roots because of Mathurin Roy and his wife Marguerite Biré. In fact, both Gosling and Bieber are also related to singers Avril Lavigne and Céline Dion, through the same two ancestors!
Ariel Winter and Jimmy Workman - Sister/brother
Ariel Winter is one of the young stars of the popular sitcom, Modern Family, who we have watched come into her own as a young woman and actress through the years. Stardom, however, is not new in their family as her brother, Jimmy Workman, already starred in movies at least a full decade before Ariel even started acting. You will likely recognize Jimmy as Pugsley Addams in The Addams Family films. He has not been acting for a while now, so the family fame currently rests entirely with Ariel.
Audrey Hepburn and Emma Ferrer - Grandmother/grandchild
Audrey Hepburn was one of the most beautiful faces to ever grace the movies, so it was a real shame that she passed away without a daughter. However, she did leave behind two sons, one of whom gave the world Emma Ferrer who is making waves in the fashion industry. Not only that, she is also studying in the Florence Academy of Art, so it probably won’t be long before we start admiring her art prints just as we admired her grandma’s beauty and talent.
Lauren Bacall and Brooke Bogart - Grandmother/granddaughter
Maybe the resemblance is uncanny, and the family name is a dead giveaway but we were genuine surprised to know that upcoming model, Brooke's grandparents turned out to be none other than actors Lauren Bacall and Humphrey Bogart. The famous couple worked together in many movies such as Key Largo and How to Marry a Millionaire and were happily married until Humphrey died in 1956. Since Bacall passed away in 2015, we hope to see Brooke step into her shoes.
Gavin Rossdale and Daisy Lowe - Father/daughter
Daisy Lowe is, no doubt, one of today’s most sought-after models with numerous advertising campaigns to her credit. It is truly shocking to find out that the 29-year-old is actually the daughter of rock star and Bush frontman Gavin Rossdale. In fact, the paternity claim is reportedly strengthened by a DNA test, which the pair underwent a while back.
Elizabeth Taylor and Laela Wilding- Grandmother and Granddaughter
One of the legendary actress Elizabeth Taylor's many legacies are the descendants she left behind, including grandchildren and great-grandchildren. One of her grandchildren, Laela Wilding, is not just continuing the actress' charitable works through her AID Foundations, but looks so much like the late actress, too. Laela is Taylor's granddaughter and Michael Wilding Jr.'s daughter.
Snoop Dogg and Brandy - Cousins
Here’s one relationship that we never would’ve guessed in a million years—rapper Snoop Dogg and singer Brandy are actually first cousins! But once you make the connection, though, we definitely can’t help but see that they do have a penchant for making hits in common, which definitely speaks of the degree of their genetic bond.
Matt Damon and Ben Affleck - Distant cousins
All these time we all just assumed that actors Ben Affleck and Matt Damon are just really close friends that go a long way back when, as a matter of fact, they can claim an even deeper bond than that as they are distant cousins. They can both trace their lineage to a common ancestor—William Knowlton Jr., an English bricklayer in the 1600s. This makes them cousins of the 10th degree, which is quite a stretch, really.
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Lucille Ball and Desiree Susan Anzalone - Great Grandmother/Great Granddaughter
'I Love Lucy' star Lucille Ball is one of the most famous TV personalities of all-time, and her marriage to Cuban band leader Desi Arnaz had resulted to two children, Lucie Arnaz and Desi Arnaz Jr. Not known to many is that Desi Jr. had a child of wedlock when he was only 15, a daughter named Julia. Julia's blood relation to Desi Jr. was proven valid by a paternity test in 1991. Julia, now 49, in turn had a daughter named, Desiree Susan Anzalone, who back in 2011, was an aspiring model. Not much is known about Desiree, except for the obvious fact that Lucille Ball's great granddaughter looks so much like her.
Sofia Coppola and Nicolas Cage - Cousins
Nicolas Cage is actually not the actor’s birth name, and his real name is a telling one. He is Nicolas Kim Coppola by birth, and yes, he is part of the famous and powerful Coppola family of Hollywood. This includes The Godfather director Francis Ford Coppola, his uncle, and Marie Antoinette director, Sofia Coppola, his cousin. All of them have huge bank accounts, so we can only imagine the Coppolas’ collective net worth.
David Spade and Kate Spade - Brother/sister-in-Law
News of designer Kate Spade’s untimely demise due to suicide was met with a lot of shock. Equally shocking to many is the fact that she is actually related to comedian and actor David Spade, who is Kate’s brother-in-law. David, for his part, was devastated by Kate’s death, which was a surprise to the family as they were not aware that she was exhibiting signs of depression.
John Cusack and Joan Cusack - Siblings
Of course, it’s easy to guess that John Cusack and Joan Cusack must be related as the last name Cusack is quite unique. What blow most people’s minds is the fact that they are not just brother and sister, they are actually twins. That’s right, they shared the same womb and were fed by the same cord blood, which really trumps most Hollywood relationships, to be honest.
Brad Pitt and Queen Elizabeth II - Distant Cousins
It wasn't enough that actor Brad Pitt's ex wife, actress Angelina Jolie was a distant relative of a royal family member, so someone actually researched his family lineage and DNA to find out that Brad may share the same bloodline as Queen Elizabeth II of England. He is the 25th cousin of King Henry II, who ruled England from 1154 to 1189, thus making him the Queen's distant cousin. Pitt's famous cousins include the commander of the Confederate Army, General Robert E. Lee and American revolutionary General Andrew Pickens.
Elizabeth Taylor and Quinn Tivey - Grandmother/grandson
Elizabeth Taylor is one of the most famous and most legendary actresses of all time. It’s a shame, really, that none of her descendants has followed in her footsteps to claim the fame that was once hers. However, her grandson, Quinn Tivey, is starting to become visible in the public eye, often walking the red carpet on charity and society events. Perhaps it won’t be long before we see him in movies, as well. Regardless, the iconic violet eyes that they share are unmistakable.
Shirley Maclaine and Warren Beatty - Siblings
Here’s one extremely formidable pairing that not many people are actually aware of. Shirley Maclaine and Warren Beatty, both award-winning veterans of the industry with large bank accounts, are actually brother and sister! This fact usually slips through the cracks largely because they do not use the same last name—Shirley claimed their mother’s last name (Maclaine), while Warren used their dad’s (Beaty, plus an extra T).
Liev Schreiber and Pablo Schreiber - Half-Brothers
You won’t know it at first glance, but actors Liev Schreiber and Pablo Schreiber are actually brothers in real life. They are, in fact, half-brothers who share the same dad, so it’s definitely easy to see which side of the family they get their stellar acting talent from. Liev is a lot more popular in movies, starring X-Men: Origins and Ray Donovan, to name a few. Pablo, on the other hand, has been making his name on his television and is a regular in series like American Gods and Orange is the New Black.
Fred Rogers And Tom Hanks - Cousins
Nobody would have figured out that legendary figure Fred Rogers was related to celebrated actor Tom Hanks. Rogers is best known for being the host of preschool TV series Mister Rogersthat aired from 1968 to 2001.
In fact, Tom Hanks recently found out that he is related to the late star when he coincidentally got a role and played Mister Rogers in A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood – a 2019 film. He was also shocked by the finding and admitted that he almost wanted to give up the role and pass it on to someone else. Well, we’re glad he didn’t!
Charlie Chaplin and Oona Chaplin - Grandfather/Granddaughter
Not to be mistaken with Oona O’Neill, who was Charlie Chaplin’s last wife before he died, is Oona Chaplin, his granddaughter. We all know Oona for her short but memorable stint on Game of Thrones. Her stellar acting chops were hard to miss, but considering that her granddad can claim to be one of the best actors of all time, we can’t expect anything less.
Clark Gable and Clark James Gable - Grandfather/Grandson
Well, their family names are already a giveaway that these two handsome men are related to each other, not to mention that they look so much alike too. The young Gable is the legendary actor's grandson, through his son. Clark James may be following in his grandfather's footsteps, since he is now actively pursuing a career in the entertainment world. His most recent work's hosting the reality TV show, Cheaters.
Taryn Manning and Peyton and Eli Manning - Second Cousins
The Manning brothers, Peyton and Eli, are household names in football. This is not the full extent of the Manning family’s acclaim, however, as another member is none other than actress Taryn Manning who we recognize for her role in 8 Mile. Taryn is the brothers’ second-degree cousin, so that’s another branch of the family with a claim to fame.