It Runs in the Family – 30+ Famous People That You Probably Didn’t Know Are Related Until Now
Liev & Pablo Schreiber
Even though Liev and Pablo Schreiber lived for ten years apart, the two shared a biological father, and despite their parents’ separation, the kids remained close. The half-brothers are well-known for their incredible talents on the big screen, having won numerous awards.
Liev ventured into acting years before his younger brother relocated to the United States to pursue an acting career, where the two reunited. At first, the “Pawn Sacrifice” actor wasn’t sure if his brother Pablo really wanted to pursue acting or was even talented. Surprisingly, they are successful in the same field, and their relationship has never suffered.
Gabrielle Union & Saweetie
Although American musician Saweetie and actress Gabrielle Union are in different entertainment industry areas, their paths have crossed online with newsworthy results. Many people came to know about their connection after a heated argument between the two emerged on social media.
Through an Instagram post, the “Daddy’s Little Girls” actress explained that the “My Type” hitmaker’s father and Union are actually first cousins. That means Saweetie’s grandmother, “Deliver Us from Eva” star Joanne Glass, is Union’s aunt. One thing’s for sure, this family is full of artistry and talent, given that the rapper also bagged two Grammy Award nominations in 2021.
Ashley Tisdale & Austin Butler
Ashley Tisdale and Austin Butler first met when co-starring in the 2011 film “Sharpay’s Fabulous Adventure.” Since then, the two have been best friends and sometimes refer to each other as fraternal twins born far apart because of their different ages.
The duo encountered a shocking revelation on an episode of “Ancestry: 2 Lies & a Leaf,” where it came out that Tisdale and Butler are 10th cousins once removed. Their family tree dates back to a certain 1627-born man named Richard Scruggs. The discovery left all of them insanely shocked but also happy to know that their bond was indeed genuine.
Emily Blunt & Stanley Tucci
The “Edge of Tomorrow” stars Emily Blunt and Stanly Tucci had starred in the 2006 blockbuster “The Devil Wears Prada” before they became a family. Though not related by blood, they have become best friends and colleagues.
In 2010, the “Mary Poppins Returns” star invited her friend Tucci to her marriage ceremony with John Krasinski, where he met several family members on the bride’s side, including her sister. She introduced Felicity Blunt to her A-list friend; the rest is history. The two hooked up after the event, and they tied the knot two years later. And that’s how these Hollywood best friends became a family.
Florence Pugh & Toby Sebastian
Florence Pugh’s increasing prominence has made her older brother Toby Sebastian popular online due to the buzz surrounding him. The budding star became an internet sensation when he starred in the hit HBO series “Game of Thrones” and as Andrea Bocelli in the 2017 film “The Music of Silence.”
The two siblings seem to have come from a talented family since he’s also a musician and released his EP “Hamliar” in 2019. Due to his career, Sebastian ended up dropping his family name, and you may not spot the similarities seeing them apart. But the resemblance is unmistakable whenever we see the siblings out together.
Mariska Hargitay & Jayne Mansfield
Since 1999, Mariska Hargitay stars as Olivia Benson in NBC’s TV series “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” She also has many achievements under her belt, including a Golden Globe and an Emmy. Aside from her flourishing career, the “Plain Truth” actress is the daughter of bodybuilder Jayne Mansfield and legendary Hollywood star Mickey Hargitay.
When she was a child, Mariska and her two brothers survived a tragic accident that cut short the life of their mother. Though the “Leaving Las Vegas” actress doesn’t seem to remember the crash, she has a scar on the side of her head that she still carries from the tragedy.
Christian Bale & Gloria Steinem
Christian Bale is a veteran Hollywood actor who has been in the industry for nearly four decades. The Oscar award winner is the son of the late David Charles Bale, an English businessman. Christian’s father was married to writer and feminist icon Gloria Steinem from 2000 until he died in 2003.
In 2018, the “American Hustle” star revealed to The Guardian that he wasn’t aware that his father had tied the knot with the writer since he had traveled to Germany. He found out about the news afterward, and that’s how Steinem became Christian’s stepmother. The family remained intact even after the father’s demise.
Larry David & Bernie Sanders
The connection between comedian Larry David and New Hampshire Senator Bernie Sanders began in 2016 after he hosted the senator on “Saturday Night Live.” Their friendship grew stronger over time, and Sanders appeared on the show several times during election cycles.
However, in 2017, that’s when things changed when the two learned that they are cousins through an episode of PBS’ “Finding Your Roots.” By the look of things, both were delighted to find out that they actually share a genetic bond. In 2020, during the election cycle interview on the show, David couldn’t keep calm, and even joked about calling him “cousin Bernie.”
Brad Pitt & Barack Obama
Many people don’t believe Hollywood actor Brad Pitt and former United States President Barack Obama are related. Though it sounds strange, according to the New England Historic Genealogical Society (NEHGS), it’s true that the two are ninth cousins.
Their history dates back to a man known as Edwin Hickman, who died in 1769 in Virginia. Obama had previously hinted at the weird and wonderful fact when he appeared on “The View” in 2008. Though the former world leader and A-list star don’t have many similarities, their lineage is blessed with phenomenal genes, as Obama was named one of the best-looking men in the U.S. in 2017.
Hugh Grant & Thomas Brodie-Sangster
Surprisingly, two of the most prominent U.K. actors are related. Hugh Grant and Thomas Brodie-Sangster first met when they both starred in the 2003 romantic comedy “Love Actually.” When filming the movie, the then-teenage actor revealed their relationship, stating that his great-grandmother and Grant’s grandmother are sisters, making them second cousins once removed.
Their lineage dates back to “The Maze Runner” actor’s maternal great-grandmother, Barbara May Randolph, who was the sister of Grant’s maternal grandmother, Margaret Isabel Randolph. Luckily, they all came from a talented family of superstars, and Brodie-Sangster is following in his older cousin’s footsteps in making it in Hollywood.
Ashlee Simpson & Diana Ross
In 2014, Ashlee Simpson tied the knot with Evan Ross, an American actor and musician. In case you didn’t know, he is the son of the legendary musician Diana Ross and her second marriage with the late Arne Næss Jr. The lovely couple ventured into music in 2013 and released their EP.
Their family relationship is therefore based on the fact that the legendary singer is the mother-in-law of Ashlee and a sister-in-law of Evan’s half-sister, “Black-Ish” actress Tracee Ellis. She and her sister, actress Jessica Simpson, spend most family gatherings and holidays with Evans’ mother and even sing Karaoke with her for fun.
Jason Momoa & Zoë Kravitz
Even when love vanishes, not all is lost, and Jason Momoa is still a supportive man for Zoë Kravitz. Since 2007, he had been in a romantic relationship with Lisa Bonet, Zoë’s mother, but they announced their separation in January 2022.
Despite the circumstances, Momoa supported Bonet’s daughter as his own at the “Batman” premiere, in which Zoë played the lead role of Catwoman. “The High Fidelity” actress has severally expressed how much she adores her father, Lenny Kravitz’s bromance with Momoa, which gives her courage. So, the “Aquaman” star still regards her as his daughter, just like his two biological children with Bonet.
Whitney Houston & Dionne Warwick
Whitney Houston, dubbed “The Voice,” was one of the most excellent musicians of all time, holding 28 Guinness World Records. Surprisingly, it turns out that the singer came from one of the most talented families, including her mother, Cissy Houston, who’s also a legendary singer.
Whitney and her cousin Dionne Warwick remained close until her unfortunate demise in 2012. Their ancestors can be traced back to Warwick’s mother, Cissy’s elder sister. Previously, the siblings were best known for their music group, The Drinkard Sisters, and made records with their prime hits. It seems that music indeed runs in this family’s veins.
Rachel Brosnahan & Kate Spade
Kate Spade was born Katherine Noel Brosnahan, who married the love of her life, Andy Spade, in 1994. The surname sounds familiar, right? Actually, Kate’s niece is none other than actress Rachel Brosnahan, who played Midge in the Amazon hit series “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.”
Rachel maintained her aunt’s legacy as a fashion icon three years after her aunt’s death in 2012. The two-time Golden Globe award winner honored her by interacting with friends and rocking her stylish silver outfit from Kate’s signature brand, Kate Spade New York. The “I’m Your Woman” star was also featured in the 2022 film “Dead for a Dollar.”
Kelly Clarkson & Reba McEntire
From 2012 to 2021, Kelly Clarkson was married to her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, the son of Narvel Blackstock, her former manager. Surprisingly, Brandon was Reba McEntire’s stepson from her 26-year marriage to Narvel at the time.
Though all the unions are no longer intact, Clarkson and McEntire shared a stepmother-in-law bond. Furthermore, the two have been friends for many years, supporting each other in the music industry. After the breakup, people speculated that the “Does He Love You?” hitmaker was supporting one party during the separation, but she diplomatically denied it. Clarkson’s ninth studio album, “When Christmas Comes Around…” hit record store shelves in 2021.
Taissa Farmiga & Vera Farmiga
Vera Farmiga has made a name for herself in the film industry since she made her debut in the mid-’90s. However, out of her six siblings, only one, Taissa Farmiga, followed in her footsteps and became a horror scream queen.
Many people know that the two are related, but they don’t believe that they are sisters. In fact, many confuse the situation with a mother-daughter relationship. Taissa is Vera’s younger sister and the youngest of the Farmiga family. Surprisingly, they have a 21-year age gap, which is pretty unusual. The 1994-born actress starred in the 2022 hit series “The Gilded Age.”
Bianca Lawson & Beyoncé
Bianca Lawson, the star of “Save the Last Dance,” is one of the family and friends to whom Beyoncé gave most of her signature Adidas x IVY PARK collection items. After all, not everyone has a chance to be a superstar’s sister, and the relationship between these two is tight since they are stepsisters.
Bianca Lawson was born in California to Denise and the well-known actor Richard Lawson. She’s, therefore, the stepdaughter of Richard’s second wife, Tina Knowles, and the stepsister of Solange Knowles and Beyoncé. Though they didn’t have much time to bond, having one of the world’s biggest stars as your sister must be an incredible feeling.
Shirley MacLaine & Warren Beatty
There are many renowned siblings in entertainment, and these two show-business legends are admirable. Many people don’t know that Shirley MacLaine and her younger brother Warren Beatty are related because they stand out as two of the most noteworthy of Hollywood’s Golden Age stars.
Beatty is one of the most multi-talented actors in Hollywood. His relationship with McLaine is quite direct, as he’s her brother, and when he debuted in acting, he changed the spelling of his last name. Despite being in their golden years, the “Splendor in the Grass” actor has repeatedly stated that he is overprotective of his sister.
Dakota Johnson, Melanie Griffith & Tippi Hedren
Dakota Johnson is one of the first rising stars on the big screen, making a noticeable splash by starring in some blockbuster films like “The Peanut Butter Falcon” and 2022’s “Cha Cha Real Smooth.” Having grown up in a cinematic, iconic family, it was apparent that she would follow in her parent’s footsteps.
Johnson is the daughter of “Another Day in Paradise” actress Melanie Griffin, who made waves in the ’80s by appearing in thriller films. She’s also the granddaughter of the legendary actress Tippi Hedren, who has been in the entertainment industry for nearly seven decades and the face of Gucci’s luxury timepieces since 2018.
Gwyneth Paltrow & Blythe Danner
Gwyneth Paltrow is an award-winning actress, and she’s best known for her roles in the films “The Royal Tenenbaums” and “The Talented Mr. Ripley.” She came from one of the most talented families of movie stars, including her late father, Bruce Paltrow, who was a well-known producer and director.
Gwyneth followed in her mother’s footsteps. Blyth Danner is a veteran actress, while her brother Jake Paltrow follows his father’s interests in directing. As “The Tomorrow Man” star is also the sister of stage actor Harry Danner, this family is full of great film lovers and astute film enthusiasts. She also appeared in the 2021 animated series “Ridley Jones.”
Billie Lourd, Carrie Fisher & Debbie Reynolds
The demise of Carrie Fisher in 2016 broke millions of fans’ hearts, and in further devastation, as if that wasn’t enough, her mom, Debbie Reynolds, died a day later. That seemed like the end of the world for Billie Lourd, who lost two of her most special people in a mere two days.
The “American Horror Story” actress followed in her mother and grandmother’s footsteps, both celebrated veteran actresses. Fans will remember Reynolds for her hit song “Tammy,” which reached the top of the Billboard music charts. While ”Star Wars” legend Fisher was also a two-time Emmy Award nominee for her role in the 2007 NBC sitcom “30 Rock.”
Phil Collins & Lily Collins
Many fans of the Netflix series “Emily in Paris” will be surprised to find out that Lily Collins is the daughter of prominent drummer Phil Collins and her former second wife, Jill Tavelman. Though they are both in the entertainment industry, the father is best known for his hit songs “In the Air Tonight” and “Do You Remember.”
Lily’s parents, Tavelman and Phil, separated in 1996 when the actress was just five years old, and they relocated from London to Los Angeles. The 10-time Academy Award nominee starred in the 2022 blockbuster film “Windfall” and published her first book, “Unfiltered: No Shame, No Regrets, Just Me,” in 2017.
Angelina Jolie & Jon Voight
The 1975-born actress Angelina Jolie has had a significant impact on the world by herself, but it appears that her folks’ experiences also shaped her into the great person she is today. The proud mother of six is the daughter of the late actress and humanitarian Marcheline Bertrand and legendary actor Jon Voight.
Both Jolie’s parents have worked in the film industry. The “Those Who Wish Me Dead” star has often discussed how her family has impacted her life, inspiring her in all aspects of her career and lifestyle. She has also been named one of Hollywood’s highest-paid actresses multiple times.
Halle Berry & Sarah Palin
The “Die Another Day” actress Halle Berry has had her share of success, from being the first Bond girl to directing one of 2020’s blockbuster Netflix films, “Bruised.” At first glance, it appears that she and Sarah Palin have nothing in common because one is an entertainer, and the other is an American politician.
In 2012, Berry hinted at a connection as a semi-distance relative with the former governor of Alaska, Palin, who happens to have been born in Idaho and raised in Alaska. Though people are still doubting the connection, we hope these two can connect and finally confirm the news.
Tia & Tamera Mowry
Fans of the 1994 ABC sitcom “Sister, Sister” can vividly remember actresses Tia and Tamera Mowry, who played the lead teenage roles. The twin sisters have stood by each other’s sides and made sacrifices since they rose to fame over two decades ago.
In 2011, the two launched their reality television series “Tia & Tamera,” which focused on their daily lives and aired on Style Network until 2013. Aside from acting, Tia has been writing and publishing books, such as “Spice! by Tia Mowry” in 2021. Tamera also released her first book, “You Should Sit Down for This,” in October 2022, based on her childhood memories.
Tom Hanks & Abe Lincoln
American filmmaker Tom Hanks is one of the most famous Hollywood stars, mostly cast in military and patriotic movies. In 2012, he revealed to the Daily Mail that he and the 16th President of the United States, Abe Lincoln, are related. It turned out that the actor’s mother was Nancy Hanks, who shares a family tree as an in-law with Lincoln.
This issue caused some controversy and complications as everyone was talking about it. Luckily, the Ancestry.com genealogists intervened, performed more research, and confirmed that the “Saving Mr. Banks” star is actually the former President’s third cousin, four times removed.
Snoop Dogg, Brandy & Ray J.
Snoop Dogg made a name for himself and has remained true to himself regardless of the test of time. The cultural icon rose to prominence in the ’90s and gained all the support he needed from his late cousin Nate Dogg, who died in 2011.
Snoop’s family is musically inclined, as he has close relationships with singer Brandy Norwood and her younger brother Ray J., his first cousins. Despite her beginnings as a gospel singer, Brandy received full support from the “Deep Cover” hitmaker in breaking into the industry. Ray J. also ventured into acting and music, working closely with his cousin.
Cuba Gooding Jr., Mason Gooding & Omar Gooding
First, we must acknowledge that the three men are all talented entertainers who have ventured into various areas. Cuba Gooding Jr. is the biological father of Mason Gooding and the brother of actor Omar Gooding. Their relationship dates back to legendary singer Cuba Gooding Sr., who was a lead musician for the R&B band The Main Ingredients.
The Goodings originated from Barbados, where their great-grandfather lived before the families moved to various parts of the United States. Mason is a budding actor who has played significant roles in films like “Love Victor,” “Everything’s Gonna Be Okay,” and the 2022 thriller series “Scream.”
Liev & Pablo Schreiber
Even though Liev and Pablo Schreiber lived for ten years apart, the two shared a biological father, and despite their parents’ separation, the kids remained close. The half-brothers are well-known for their incredible talents on the big screen, having won numerous awards.
Liev ventured into acting years before his younger brother relocated to the United States to pursue an acting career, where the two reunited. At first, the “Pawn Sacrifice” actor wasn’t sure if his brother Pablo really wanted to pursue acting or was even talented. Surprisingly, they are successful in the same field, and their relationship has never suffered.
Chuck & Amy Schumer
Amy Schumer, a five-time Primetime Emmy Award nominee, is a well-known American entertainer and the second cousin once removed of United States Senate Minority Leader AND Senator Chuck Schumer. Though they are distant relatives, they work closely, and in 2015, they launched an initiative addressing gun violence.
According to Refinery 29, Amy’s mother has deep New England roots and married a Jewish man who was a distant relative of Chuck’s father. Regardless of the challenges they went through when growing up, the family seems to attract the spotlight as both of them are successful and support each other in their careers.
Katherine and Sam Waterston
Thanks to her leading role in the blockbuster “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” franchise, Katherine Waterston has viewers sitting up and paying attention worldwide. One would assume she would have picked up some tips from the legendary star, Sam Waterston, who is her father.
However, the “World to Come” star admitted in an interview that nothing had adequately prepared her for the demanding nature of the entertainment industry. Still, we’re sure she still gets to pick up a thing or two from the “Law and Order” veteran. Acting obviously runs in the family, as both the father and the daughter have achieved remarkable success in the field.
Margaret Qualley and Andie MacDowell
With roles in TV shows and movies like HBO’s “The Leftovers,” “Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood,” and “The Nice Guys,” Margaret Qualley has already established a solid Hollywood career for herself. The former dancer-turned-model-turned-actor has shown off her skills on the big screen and some of the most prestigious runways, including multiple couture events in Paris.
You’re right on the money if you feel she resembles someone you know. She is the daughter of actress Andie MacDowell. In addition to “Four Weddings and a Funeral” and “Groundhog Day,” MacDowell has starred in several noteworthy movies. The Netflix miniseries “Maid” even featured both mother and daughter together on-screen.
Kate Hudson and Goldie Hawn
Since her role as Penny Lane in “Almost Famous” in 2000, Kate Hudson has acted in a number of films, developed a fitness business, and established herself as the ideal bohemian-style figure.
She was raised in Hollywood with Goldie Hawn as her mother, spending her early years on set before going on to become a well-known celebrity in her own right. Any devoted Hudson fan would know how close she is to her mother and how she never holds back any chance to fawn about her. The bond between the two legendary actresses, who have shared the spotlight in Hollywood for over 20 years, is quite endearing.
Allison and Brian Williams
Allison Williams gained notoriety as a prominent member of the cast of the critically acclaimed television show “Girls” and the 2017 thriller “Get Out.” Despite her ascension to major silver screen roles, she appeared to have had a foot in the industry’s door since she was born.
Her father, Brian Williams, is a reasonably well-known figure even though he is not an actor. He is a prominent journalist who began his journalism career as a local reporter in the ’80s. Despite having a renowned person for a father, Allison has carved out a successful profession for herself, and it is safe to assume that her father is proud of her.
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