Liza Minnelli has a new “memoir” out, and in that book, she claims to be one of the original nepo babies. It’s true – she’s the daughter of Judy Garland and Vincente Minnelli, and she not only grew up in show business, but she is arguably one of the most successful nepo babies of all time. Well, move over Liza with a Z! Gwyneth Paltrow now claims that she INVENTED nepo babies. No, no, I’m joking, Gwyneth didn’t say she invented it, but she does claim to be one of the original nepo babies. Just like she was one of the first people ever in history to do yoga, I’m sure.
Gwyneth Paltrow isn’t afraid to call out her “nepo baby” status. The Marty Supreme actress, who is the daughter of fellow actress Blythe Danner and film producer and director Bruce Paltrow, addressed the title while being honored at the 2026 New York Women in Film & Television Muse Awards on Friday, March 20.
“I was extraordinarily lucky to be given opportunities early on, probably partly because I’m one of the original nepo babies,” Gwyneth joked, “but I would be lying if I said that that made my path clear.”
“There were many moments when the industry made it very plain that women are expected to stay in their lane and to be graceful and quiet and above all to be one thing. And I’ve never been very good at being one thing,” she added, referring to launching her wellness and lifestyle company, Goop.
The Emma star, 53, also took a moment to honor her mother, 83-year-old Danner, who was in the audience, sharing that many of the lessons she learned from the Meet the Parents actress have shaped her own work.
“Mom, you showed me what it looks like to commit fully to a craft, to be insanely creative and brave in your choices onstage, and to carry yourself with so much grace, even when sometimes this industry doesn’t make it so easy. So thank you,” she said.
Danner wasn’t the only one who got the spotlight, as Gwyneth also highlighted the support she’s received from her husband, TV and film producer Brad Falchuk, 55, and from her son, Moses Martin, 19. “When we talk about women supporting women, which matters enormously, we also want to acknowledge the gorgeous, thoughtful, and loving men who show up for us and fill our hearts with love,” Gwyneth said after mentioning the pair.
For what it’s worth, Gwyneth has never been one of those nepo-babies who pretend that their family had nothing to do with their rise. Gwyneth has always openly flaunted her privilege and her nepotism, even when she first entered the scene. It was her calling card – she was the daughter-of Bruce Paltrow and Blythe Danner, she called Steven Spielberg her “uncle” and on and on. But is she one of the OG nepo-babies? I certainly think Liza would like a word.
Photos of Gwyneth at the Muse event:
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Photos courtesy of Avalon Red, Cover Images.
