Opinion: Nepotism in the entertainment industry: does it really stop talent from reaching the top?

The debate about nepotism or “nepotism culture” has dominated conversations in the entertainment industry for several years. From social media to interviews and award shows, more and more people are speaking out about the fact that the children of famous actors and filmmakers are being handed opportunities on a silver platter.

Critics argue that these “children of nepotism” have a head start in an industry where success should be earned, not inherited. As a result, many believe that the doors of the entertainment world close to those who don't have a famous last name. But does nepotism really stifle new talent, or can hard work and skill still pave the way to the top?

Reality of nepotism in the entertainment industry

Nepotism is rife in the entertainment industry, and family ties can often confer many advantages. From casting decisions to brand endorsements, the influence of a famous last name can open doors closed to outsiders. This systematic favoritism has created an uneven playing field where those born into industry dynasties are set up for success from the start.

Even behind the scenes, industry contacts make it easier to meet influential directors, producers and agents, making it easier for celebrity children to climb the career ladder. While some argue that talent is ultimately the deciding factor, the reality is that nepotism often determines who gets the chance to showcase their talent. So many deserving artists struggle to break through the barriers nepotism creates.

Is the industry changing?

The entertainment industry is slowly evolving, and audiences are becoming more vocal about their displeasure with nepotism. Social media has brought a new level of transparency, where every casting decision and success story is scrutinized by audiences, especially when it involves a nepotistic child.

This heightened awareness is forcing production companies and casting directors to rethink their choices as audiences demand more authenticity and talent-led success. Viewers are more vocal than ever when a celebrity kid makes their debut and fails to impress them. Not only are they criticized, but they also become the target of trolling.

Moreover, the rise of digital platforms has allowed self-made stars to carve their own path. The medium is no longer limited to films or TV series. The OTT space, which is the future of content, has opened doors for new talent.

Shakti Arora, Vivek Dahiya and other celebrities on nepotism culture

Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin actor Shakti Arora, who played Ishaan Bhosale, is the grandson of famous actor, producer and director Chandrashekhar and founder of Cine and TV Artistes Association (CINTAA). His father, Naresh Kumar Arora, was also a member of CINTAA. Coming from such a family, many would expect that he was offered television roles without any problems.

However, the reality was different. When he told his grandfather that he wanted to be an actor, his grandfather advised him to do an MBA instead and get a job. He also said that he was not worthy. “It was like a slap in the face for me: 'I belong to this family, so why am I not getting promoted?' There are more people from my family in this industry, but they tried and I didn't get any work because I was not that capable then. They thought that I was unlikely to get any work. So I had to forge my own path, I had to struggle and find work, so I never took their names,” Arora revealed in an interview with Bombay Times.

So he took on even the smallest roles on his own and also worked as a body double and junior artist for a day or two.

Vivek Dahiya believes that kids whose parents work in the industry get more opportunities, but how they survive in the long run is up to them. He says, “Three or four years ago, this happened to me. I auditioned for a role and it went to someone in the industry. Someone who hasn't worked as much as me. Someone who isn't as experienced but happens to be related to someone. It's unfair, but I don't think about it much.”

Actress Nidhi Uttam, who rose to fame with one of the longest-running television dramas, Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, believes that there is no nepotism in the entertainment industry, either in Bollywood or on television. The actress, who has also made her name in the Bollywood industry, believes that both the fields are open to outsiders.

In her words, “You just have to be talented enough to make a place there. Also, there is no problem of nepotism in television and in Bollywood. It is the performance that counts. A star son or daughter may get few projects because their parents are from a film background, but in the end, it is their performance on screen that counts. Only if they are good actors can they survive in the industry.”

Can true talent prevail over nepotism?

Talent remains the most valuable asset in the entertainment industry, even in the face of nepotism. While relationships can open doors, talent, perseverance and connection with audiences are ultimately the foundation for a long-term career.

The history of the industry is replete with stories of underdogs who defied all odds and made it big with sheer skill and determination. Famous faces like Shivangi Joshi, Tejasswi Prakash and Arjun Bijlani, to name a few, have made their mark in the industry through their own talent, without having any acting background in the family.

While nepotism presents significant challenges, it cannot completely overshadow the power of genuine talent. As the industry evolves, the real test will be whether talent is allowed to shine on its own merits, regardless of its origins. Ultimately, audiences crave authenticity, and no privilege can replace the impact of a truly talented artist.

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