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Sam Nivola Rejects ‘Nepo Baby’ Label and Decries Ageism in Hollywood

Hollywood’s age-defying procedures coupled with predictive analytics are squeezing out emerging talent, the 21-year-old star warns.

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Sam Nivola. (Getty)
The White Lotus stars Sam Nivola and Patrick Schwarzenegger were involved in an incest storyline. (HBO)

Overview

  • Nivola insists he earned his breakout roles without leveraging his parents’ connections, saying “other than my genes” his success is self-made.
  • He condemns veteran actors’ use of plastic surgery to continue playing younger characters, arguing it blocks space for newcomers.
  • He criticizes Hollywood’s “Moneyball” approach, warning that predictive analytics and risk aversion stifle creative innovation in comedy.
  • He left college after one semester against his parents’ wishes to pursue acting full-time, highlighting the personal sacrifices behind his rise.
  • He expects his upcoming teen comedy Driver’s Ed to help revitalize the genre and showcase fresh talent.