Ethan And Maya Hawke Talk Nepotism

Ethan Hawke is proud of his “nepo-baby.” Or rather, he’s a self-declared, proud “nepo dad,” as he jokes in an interview with Variety to promote his new film, Wildcat, in which his daughter, Maya Hawke, stars. While the reporter notes that Maya seems more concerned with how that statement might read (cringeworthy at worst), the rest of the interview sufficiently demonstrates their excitement about working together. While it’s likely true that they naturally gravitated toward one another for this specific project, which premiered at this year’s Telluride Film Festival, the entire interview reads as two actors on the defense against anticipated backlash.

Public opinion varies when it comes to nepotism in Hollywood. Ben Platt handled the question poorly, while Allison Williams was gracious. Nepotism exists in all aspects of life, not just in Hollywood, but the spotlight on actors and their lineage makes them easier targets. So it often comes down to the actor’s own talent and whether they acknowledge that nepotism gave them a career advantage—even if a famous parent can’t ensure lasting success.

In Maya Hawke’s case, it’s complex. She’s landed roles in films by Wes Anderson and Quentin Tarantino—roles that easily could have been played by another actress. She’s charming as Robin in Stranger Things, but her involvement alone won’t compel me to watch a project. Her Stranger Things co-star, Natalia Dyer, would have been just as good, if not better, in Asteroid City.

Later in the interview, Ethan Hawke again attempts to defend their collaboration, saying, “…the temperature in the room changed because Maya now has every right to be the lead of something. It’s different than if she were 17. This movie is being financed because she’s in it, not because I’m directing.”

He also comments on a monologue that Maya chose for her Juilliard audition—a school she would be accepted to but leave a year later for a television series: “Famous parents can help you get an audition, but they’re not going to get you in.”

While this might be fair, it somewhat misses the point. Securing an audition is often the major hurdle many can’t overcome. I remember when auditioning for Berklee College of Music at 18, the application alone cost $100—money that wasn’t easy to come by. Talent doesn’t guarantee the realization of dreams; getting the opportunity to audition is a significant advantage in itself.

Ethan Hawke is a superb actor, and over time, Maya Hawke might carve out her own unique space on screen. If not, she has other options—she’s already released two albums. The interview provides further insight into their process on set and their handling of fame. Nonetheless, the discussion of nepotism continues to be fraught with a failure to recognize that even the advantage of name recognition can significantly smooth the path ahead.