Do you think it’s fair?
Since the rise of Kendall Jenner and the Hadid sisters, fashion has been familiar with the world of models from famous families. However, the recent influx of celebrities on the runway has sparked a controversial debate: would they be where they are now without their high-profile last names?
While Jenner and the Hadids are known as prominent celebrity models, Forbes’ 2017 list of highest-paid models includes many other children of stars — including the families of Kate Moss, Lionel Richie, Jude Law, Johnny Depp, Nicole Richie, Snoop Dogg, and Liam Gallagher. Model agencies closely watch this trend, as the popularity of models is often strongly influenced by their background.
It’s not just celebrity children who are in demand: royal bloodlines are also booked by model agencies for prestigious fashion houses. Prince Nikolai of Denmark, for example, opened Kim Jones’ debut show at Dior Homme.
One of the latest examples is Delilah Belle Hamlin, daughter of actor Harry Hamlin and reality star Lisa Rinna. At this year’s Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Australia, Delilah demonstrated how celebrity models often gain easier access to international modeling jobs through their family influence. Her younger sister Amelia Hamlin is following the same path, and both have already been dubbed the next “Hadid sisters.”
In the digital world, anyone can try to establish themselves as a model. But celebrity children have an immediate head start thanks to their parents. These models undoubtedly have model-worthy features, but the opportunities they receive are often more accessible than for an ordinary model who has spent years training. Many models work extensively with professional photographers before appearing in major fashion shows, while celebrity children are sometimes booked immediately.
Jude Law’s daughter Iris, who is only 163 cm tall, has already modeled for Burberry. This shows that model agencies increasingly consider social media value and celebrity status. As Calvin Klein says, “They’re booked because they have so many followers online.” Hard work alone does not guarantee classical models the same attention as children of celebrities.
With the growing importance of social media and model aristocracy, the fashion industry is becoming increasingly exclusive. These celebrity models often shape a beauty ideal that does not always align with the industry’s diversity. When success in modeling is only achieved through privilege or influence, race, wealth, and prestige remain important factors — and diversity within the modeling world suffers.
What are your thoughts on the influence of celebrities on models and model agencies?
