Defending Jack Quaid: Meg Ryan Slams Nepotism Claims as Dismissive of his Talent and Hard Work
Actress Meg Ryan defends son Jack Quaid against nepotism allegations, applauding his talent and work ethic in the face of criticism towards so-called 'nepo babies' in Hollywood
Meg Ryan and Jack Quaid Getty Images (2)
Meg Ryan’s son, Jack Quaid, has made a name for himself, but she still goes out of her way to shield him from the negative attention that often accompanies fame.
“You wouldn’t want that for anyone. It’s tough and just plain strange,” Ryan, 62, revealed in a recent interview with Glamour, published on Thursday, November 30.
Jack Quaid, 31, is the son of Ryan and Dennis Quaid and is among the young celebrities whose rise to fame has sparked conversations about nepotism. Some critics argue that "nepo babies" rely on their famous parents' names rather than their own talent to achieve success. However, Ryan Quaid dismisses this discourse as she believes her son is truly talented and hardworking. She emphasizes that Jack's success is a result of his dedication, skill, and sensitivity to his privilege, and not just his parentage.
Jack is most widely recognized for his portrayal of Huey Campbell on The Boys. He made his first screen appearance as Marvel in the 2012 film The Hunger Games, and has gone on to act in a number of other projects including Logan Lucky, Plus One, Scream, Oppenheimer and Star Trek: Lower Decks.
Ryan is also the parent of an 18-year-old daughter named Daisy, whom she adopted in 2006.
When discussing the nepotism debate, Jack shared with Thrillist in June 2022 that he had considered changing his name and that his father had initially not allowed him to get an agent. "I knew that people would always assume, 'Oh, I know how he got that job,'" he said. "And they’re still going to think that. It's okay. But as long as I knew how I got there, that would be enough."
John Mellencamp, Meg Ryan, and Jack Quaid were spotted at Madison Square Garden in New York City on December 25, 2017, attending the New York Knicks Vs. Philadelphia 76ers game. James Devaney/Getty Images
Ryan reminisced on Thursday about discovering her son's talent at a young age. "I recall watching him in a middle school production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. He was cast as Bottom," she shared with Glamour. "I had just gone through a divorce from his dad, and he was seated on the other side of the gym. I had my head in my hands and thought, 'Oh, no. He’s good. He’s really good.'" (Ryan and Dennis, 69, split in 2000 after almost a decade of marriage and finalized their divorce the following year.)
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According to Ryan, Dennis came to the same revelation. “I leaned forward, and I see Dennis, and he’s also leaning forward with his head in his hands,” she added. “I just knew.”
During the interview, Ryan expressed heartfelt joy in being the mother of Jack and Daisy. She described her children as always being fun and a joy to be around. Their lively curiosity and enthusiasm for the world brings her immense happiness and she is grateful to be their mother.
