Ever start watching a new TV show, and one of the actors looks incredibly familiar? You open your phone and open the ever-reliable IMDb, and it hits you, the actor is the son of another famous actor! We realized that there are quite a number of famous dads that have lookalike sons, so we’ve made a list for you. And it’s great to know a lot of them are just as talented as their dads! Some of them might even surprise you!
James Caan and Scott Caan
Who can forget the iconic Sonny Corleone from The Godfather? James Caan had an illustrious acting career, starring in many movies like El Dorado to seasonal family fun in Elf. He also had a successful TV run on the show Las Vegas. Sadly we lost James in July 2022, but his legacy lives on in his son Scott.
Scott Caan, born to James and Sheila in 1976, has starred in quite a few big movies but is most notable for his role in the remake of Hawaii Five-0. He has the unmistakable nose and eyes of his dad, and those blue eyes are enough to make anyone weak in the knees!
Stellan Skarsgård and Alexander Skarsgård
Dad Stellan isn’t one that you’d always know or recognize, and yet this Swedish-born actor has been in some big movies. He’s probably most notable as Bill “Bootstraps” Turner in the Pirates of the Caribbean series, yet you may also recognize him from Mamma Mia and the Oscar-winning movie Good Will Hunting.
Stellan’s mini-me, Alexander, is an accomplished actor too. He was part of the main cast of True Blood but also had significant roles in Zoolander and The Northman. It’s worth noting that Stellan’s other son, Bill, is also a copy of his father! The Skarsgårds definitely have strong genes!
Clint Eastwood and Scott Eastwood
Where do we even begin with the list of Clint Eastwood’s memorable movies? The man is a Hollywood icon, and not only in front of the camera. From his break-out role in the 1966 TV series, Rawhide to playing a New York City cop in Dirty Harry, Clint has proven he has immense talent. He then moved behind the camera, and his numerous awards show that he can direct too!
Scott Eastwood, Clint’s son from one of many relationships, was born in 1986, and there’s just no mistaking who his father is! Those eyes, that jaw, someone pass the fan, it’s getting hot in here! Not only has Scott inherited his dad’s swoonalicious looks but he’s also just as talented.
John Lennon and Sean Lennon
John Lennon. Need we say more? Everyone should know who he is. The former Beatle is well known for his singing and songwriting skills, with famous songs like “Hey Jude” (co-written with Paul McCartney), and “Imagine” (co-written with Yoko Ono). Sadly, John was taken from us in 1980, but his memory lives on in all his music that’s still loved today.
Not only does his legacy live on in his music, but his son with Yoko Ono, Sean, is also a musician. There’s no mistaking that Sean is John’s son, and although not as famous, he’s steadily performed with various artists over the years, including Miley Cyrus.
Don Johnson and Jesse Johnson
Ah, Sonny Crockett. That famous white jacket will go down in history as belonging to one of the coolest TV cops of the ’80s. Don Johnson was a heartthrob, thanks to that role in Miami Vice, which also helped his success in Nash Bridges. Don oozes talent and still shows it off today. Just check out Knives Out!
Don has a few kids, but his son Jesse is unmistakably a Johnson. Jesse was born in 1982, and his mom is Patti D’Arbanville. One of his first roles was as Don’s nephew in Nash Bridges, which worked well, seeing as the family resemblance is very apparent.
Eugene Levy and Dan Levy
Eugene Levy is a comedic legend and has starred in numerous movies, including Bringing Down the House and Cheaper by the Dozen 2. But, surely, his most proud moment was acting with his real-life son, Dan, in the popular Schitt’s Creek.
Dan Levy is a talent house, having starred not only in Schitt’s Creek but is also the only person to act in all the American Pie movies. It’s really not hard to see that this duo is father and son, but the glasses definitely help.
Jude Law and Rafferty Law
Jude Law is an accomplished actor who broke through to stardom in The Talented Mr. Ripley. He was nominated for a Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his role in this movie. Jude has taken on the mammoth task of playing young Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter prequels, Fantastic Beasts, and he’s doing Harry Potter fans proud!
Rafferty, Jude’s son with actress Sadie Frost, has decided to follow in his parent’s footsteps. While he’s yet to make his mark, the 26-year-old has been in a few movies, notably Twist with Michael Caine in 2021.
Jean-Claude Van Damme and Kris Van Varenberg
The ’80s were big on action movies and, in particular, martial art ones. Kickboxer and Bloodsport had all the kids signing up to learn judo and karate. Jean-Claude was the king of action movies throughout the ’80s and ’90s.
Jean-Claude’s son, Kris, was no stranger to action movies, obviously, as he portrayed a young Luc Deveraux in the 1992 hit action flick Universal Soldier. Following in his dad’s action-hero footsteps, he often acts with his dad, most recently in Black Water.
Bill Pullman and Lewis Pullman
Bill Pullman is instantly recognizable with his unique looks and incredible talent. Probably one of his most memorable career moments was acting in Independence Day. His diverse skills have allowed him to play a country’s leader, a father in Casper, and a love interest in While You Were Sleeping.
Bill’s equally instantly recognizable son, Lewis, is an esteemed up-and-coming actor, having just starred in Top Gun: Maverick. The family resemblance is very obvious, and so is the inherited talent, which looks to set Lewis on a road to stardom, just like his dad!
James Brolin and Josh Brolin
James Brolin has been a screen staple since the ’60s, with his biggest role as Dr. Steven Kiley on Marcus Welby, M.D. This role won him an Emmy and a Golden Globe, no less! Another notable role that won him awards was as the hotel manager, Peter McDermott, in Aaron Spelling’s Hotel.
James’ spitting image son, Josh, is also an award-winning actor, with wins for the movie Milk and No Country for Old Men. Probably one of his biggest roles was as Thanos from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Henry Fonda and Peter Fonda
Henry Fonda’s legendary acting career spanned over 50 years, starting with breakout performances in movies like Jesse James and Young Mr. Lincoln. Henry was nominated for a Best Actor Academy Award for the movie The Grapes of Wrath and eventually won said award for his final movie ever, On Golden Pond.
The Fondas are actually a Hollywood dynasty, with Peter Fonda just as decorated as his dad. His most notable film is probably Easy Rider. Like father, like son, right?!
Val Kilmer and Jack Kilmer
’80s heartthrob Val Kilmer rose to fame as a pilot in the mega-movie Top Gun. Numerous roles followed the success of Top Gun. One of his biggest yet more challenging roles was as Jim Morrison, the substance-hooked lead singer of The Doors, for which he received critical acclaim.
Although Val and Joanne’s marriage didn’t last, they did have two kids, Jack and Mercedes. Mini-Val, Jack, was never one for acting and didn’t really pursue it until someone asked him to read for them, and he got a part in the movie Palo Alto. He hasn’t looked back since!
Rob Lowe and John Owen Lowe
If you want to know about ’80s hunks, then Rob Lowe will always be on any list. Making teenage girls weak at the knees for his roles in St. Elmo’s Fire and The Outsiders, Rob’s posters adorned walls everywhere. As he got older, he took on more adult-themes roles, such as The West Wing.
His son John Owen will probably take over his dad’s role as a teen heartthrob, seeing as he’s the spitting image of Rob. Although John studied science and technology in college, he’s dipped his toes into the acting world, appearing in a family-run show called The Lowe Files.
Tommy Lee and Brandon Lee
One of the most, um, bizarre relationships of the ’90s was Tommy Lee and Pamela Anderson. They sure knew how to stay relevant, appearing in all sorts of media throughout their turbulent marriage. Tommy, the drummer for the heavy metal band Mötley Crüe, has made a ton of albums over the years, both with the band and solo.
His marriage to Baywatch actress, Pamela Anderson, produced two sons, Brandon and Dylan. Brandon has decided to follow in his mom’s footsteps and pursue acting.
Damon Wayans and Damon Wayans Jr.
Another Hollywood dynasty, the Wayans have quite a few actors amongst their brood. Damon Wayans Sr. has had a prolific career in film and TV, most notably for the TV show In Living Color. On the big screen, he starred in The Last Boy Scout and was a perfect drill sergeant in Major Payne.
His mini-me, Damon Wayans Jr., is a very successful actor widely known for his role in Happy Endings. His debut was in his dad’s movie, Blankman, released in 1994. These two look more like brothers than father and son!
Kurt Russell and Wyatt Russell
Kurt Russell was the original Disney star, having signed a 10-year contract with the company in 1966. He made quite the name for himself! Following that Disney stint, he went on to make more movies, such as Big Trouble in Little China and the futuristic action comedy, Escape From New York, where he portrayed Snake Plissken.
His relationship with actress Goldie Hawn produced a mini-Kurt they named Wyatt. Wyatt is now 36 and played ice hockey before jumping into the family business. It makes sense that he did, as both his parents and his half-brother and half-sister are considered Hollywood elites.
Jeremy Irons and Max Irons
British actor Jeremy Irons has done it all! He’s done Shakespeare, performed in many West End plays, TV, and movies, and loaned his voice to animation, most notably as Scar, Mufasa’s evil brother in The Lion King.
Jeremy’s son Max has inherited all the acting genes, not only because of his dad but because his mom Sinéad Cusack is an actor too. Max has had roles in Red Riding Hood, The White Queen, and The Host, but he also models for Burberry and Mango. We can see why!
Nicolas Cage and Weston Cage
Academy Award-winning actor Nicolas Cage is a favorite of many. Although it took him a few years to be the star he is today, his breakout role was in Moonstruck opposite Cher. He won a Golden Globe for this role. His action-adventure movies were his big crowd pleasers, such as Gone in 60 Seconds, The Rock, and Face/Off.
Nicolas’ son Weston tried to get into the acting world, but it didn’t pan out for him. We’re kind of sad about it because his family is the famous Coppolas after all. But it’s not for everyone, and he seems to be making a name for himself with death metal music instead.
Jerry Stiller and Ben Stiller
Jerry Stiller was a beloved comedian and actor. He and his wife, Anne Meara, formed the popular comedic duo, Stiller and Meara. Jerry starred in numerous TV series, namely Seinfeld and The King of Queens.
Ben Stiller, Jerry, and Anne’s son, is a name that stands all on its own. He’s conquered the comedic film world with epic movies like the Night at the Museum trilogy, There’s Something About Mary, Dodgeball, and Zoolander, in which his dad had a small part.
Lloyd Bridges and Jeff Bridges
Lloyd Bridges was one of the classic stars of the ’40s, and over his career, he made more than 150 movies! What an incredible career! He worked for Columbia Pictures and garnered lead roles in Secret Service Investigator and 16 Fathoms Deep. His biggest hit was a spoof film, however, called Airplane.
Jeff Bridges needs no introduction. The second son of Lloyd and Dorothy is an accomplished actor in his own right. He received an Oscar nomination for his role in The Last Picture Show (1971) and was one of the youngest people to ever be nominated. He became one of the oldest Oscar winners when he won Best Actor for Crazy Heart in 2009.
Ice Cube and O’Shea Jackson Jr.
Rapper Ice Cube co-founded the group NWA but is also noted for his solo career. Following his success in the music business, Cube jumped over to acting and did really well, especially with films like Barbershop, Ride Along, and Are We There Yet? He proved his versatility with both comedy and drama, starring in Straight Outta Compton.
Cube’s eldest son, despite being who he is, had to audition for his role as a younger version of his father in Straight Outta Compton, but he got the role and showed what he was made of.
Bruce Springsteen and Sam Springsteen
“Born in the USA” will always be an iconic song of Bruce Springsteen. The rocker was a big name in the ’80s and released numerous successful albums, including Born in the USA.
Bruce’s son Sam, although a dead ringer for his rocker dad, shied away from the entertainment industry and became a firefighter. He recently celebrated the birth of a daughter.
Sean Penn and Hopper Penn
Wow, the likeness is incredible! Sean Penn is a multi-Oscar winner, having won Best Actor Oscars for Mystic River and Milk. His breakout role was as a surfer teenager in Fast Times at Ridgemont High.
Hopper, Sean’s son with Robin Wright, is a dead ringer for his dad and has followed in his parents’ footsteps. His movie resume includes War Machine, Puppy Love, and The Cleaner.
Denzel Washington and John David Washington
Beloved Hollywood icon Denzel Washington has cemented his place as a superstar. With memorable movies like Remember the Titans, Glory, and Training Day, Denzel is as versatile as they come.
It must be pretty overwhelming having a dad in the industry who’s just so good at his job, but it seems John David is taking it in stride and learning all the right lessons. He’s already garnered a few Golden Globe and SAG nominations, so it’s probably only a matter of time before he’s also accepting his Oscar one day.
Steve Irwin and Robert Irwin
The Aussie animal lover and conservationist gained international stardom with his show The Crocodile Hunter. Having always been around crocs and reptiles, Steve Irwin was the perfect guy, with the best personality, to teach the world about how important it is to look after our fauna. It was with great sadness that we learned the very animals he loved contributed to his passing in 2006.
Steve’s son Robert is exactly like his dad. Robert was only two when his dad passed, but everything he’s learned, he’s passing on to everyone – just like his dad did.
James Gandolfini and Michael Gandolfini
Who can forget Tony Soprano? James Gandolfini was brilliant as the Italian mob boss, winning three Emmys, a Golden Globe, and numerous other accolades for this role. Sadly, James passed away in 2013.
Following the loss of his father, Michael decided to take up acting, with his most notable role in The Many Saints of Newark. This movie was actually a prequel to The Sopranos, and Michael played the younger version of Tony Soprano.
Sean “Diddy” Combs and Christian Combs
Record producer and rapper Sean Combs is a powerhouse in the music world. Although he has songs like “I’ll Be Missing You,” Sean is more well known for changing his name just about as often as we change our underwear. Not quite, but you get what we mean!
More importantly, Sean knows how to find talent, and his Bad Boys Entertainment company is a testament to that. Sean’s son, Christian, aka King Combs, signed to his dad’s label and has released a few songs and EPs.
Phil Collins and Simon Collins
The Genesis drummer may be retired now, but what an incredible career he’s had! His solo career saw him gain massive success with the albums Face Value and Hello, I Must Be Going! selling millions of copies. Phil also created music for movies, notably Against All Odds, which gained an Oscar nomination for best song, and the Disney classic, Tarzan.
Phil’s son, Simon, was born in 1976 and was musically inclined from the get-go. This multi-talented muso can sing and play a variety of instruments, which he did for his 2005 album Time for Truth.
Philip Seymour Hoffman and Cooper Hoffman
Philip was well-known for collaborating with director Paul Thomas Anderson, and they brought us movies like Boogie Nights and The Master. He won the Academy Award for Best Actor for Capote in 2005. Sadly, Philip left us in 2014.
All is not lost, however, as his favorite director convinced Philip’s son, Cooper, to join the cast of Licorice Pizza. Cooper gained critical acclaim for this role and was nominated for numerous awards. Philip’s legacy will surely continue with Cooper.
Will Smith and Jaden Smith
Will Smith is an accomplished rapper and actor, finally winning his Best Actor award in 2022 under a dark shadow of a physical outburst. The iconic TV show The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air will always be his trademark. Not to mention his roles in the Men in Black and Bad Boys franchises.
Will’s youngest son Jaden has also dabbled in both music and acting, with movies like Karate Kid and Life in a Year. The father and son also portrayed a father and son in two movies, namely The Pursuit of Happyness and After Earth.
