Johnny Depp Shares How Mom’s Alleged Abuse Influenced Him Being a Dad

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Johnny Depp is reflecting on his early years.

In recounting the hardships he’s endured over time, Johnny Depp, the star known for his role in “Pirates of the Caribbean,” claimed that he suffered physical and emotional abuse at the hands of his mother, Betty Sue Palmer, during his childhood years.

In the interview with The Telegraph on July 5th, Johnny stated, “She attacked me with various objects, like a stick, a shoe, an ashtray, and even a phone. To him, it made no difference.

Although he admitted to the alleged mistreatment (which he also promised to discuss during his 2022 defamation trial against Amber Heard), the actor known for “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” explained that his own upbringing by his mother played a significant role in shaping his perspective regarding his children, Lily-Rose Depp (age 26) and Jack Depp (age 23), whom he has with ex Vanessa Paradis.

He added, “I owe her my gratitude for that. She showed me a unique way of not bringing up children. Essentially, I should just do the complete reverse of what she did.

Previously, Johnny has opened up about his experiences as a father, highlighting the parts of the job he enjoyed the most: Nurturing his children away from the public eye in France.

In an interview with The Sunday Times, published on June 21st, he stated, “I was the one known as Papa,” and expressed, “Let me tell you, there’s no measure for the love I had for being Papa.

After their increased time in Los Angeles, Johnny (who separated from Vanessa in 2012 following over a decade together) stated, “All of a sudden, he wasn’t Papa anymore. I became Dad.

Still, the family’s time together in Europe was special to him. 

As a devoted admirer, let me tell you, the moment I truly found my sanctuary was in the southern region of France – the very same location where Vanessa and I nurtured our little ones. It’s the sole spot that has ever resonated as home within my heart.

As his children have grown up, the 62-year-old finds he could once again be known as “Papa”.

Johnny jokingly mentioned that he might be old enough to potentially become a grandfather, saying, ‘Sooner or later, someone is going to need to start calling me Grandpa!’

Similarly to how Johnny openly discusses his experiences as a father, Lily-Rose has also been candid about growing up with well-known parents, particularly since she’s chosen a similar career path. Dive into the following passage to discover what celebrities have to say about their parentage.

In a recent interview on February 7th, 2024, the daughter of Melanie Griffith and Don Johnson expressed that when she initially encountered the “Nepo Baby” controversy, she found it extremely frustrating and dull.

In a playful manner, the actress from Fifty Shades of Grey stated, “I seized the chance to poke fun at it,” referring to a Saturday Night Live skit that satirized a controversy she had joined in on during her recent hosting stint the prior month.

A gentle nudge to note that our discussion has been ongoing, as Emma made it clear from the start that her familial relationship with Julia Roberts and Eric Roberts is not the primary factor driving her career success.

Many people believe that, but the actress from “Scream 4” at the time of 2011 stated to PopEater that this is a misconception. She finds the discussion about nepotism laughable because it’s not valid—as she has auditioned for numerous roles and never secured one. Moreover, even if someone could help you land one part, they certainly cannot help you with ten parts.

Goldie Hawn‘s daughter doesn’t bother to get the knives out when talk turns to nepotism.

Kate, who was brought up by Kurt Russell (Goldie Hawn’s longtime partner), expressed this in an interview with The Independent in December 2022: “I don’t place much importance on labels. We are a family that loves storytelling, and that’s something deeply ingrained in us. Whatever people choose to call it, it won’t alter the fact.

As a mother to Ryder and Bingham (the latter with Chris Robinson and the former with Matthew Bellamy, respectively), and a mom to Rani with Danny Fujikawa, I often find myself reflecting on the dynamics of various industries. In my experience, it seems that certain fields, such as modeling perhaps, have a more common trend of involving children in professional settings. This phenomenon is strikingly apparent in the business world, where I’ve occasionally found myself in meetings and thinking, “Hold on, who’s child is this? It seems they lack experience!

Ultimately, she added, “If you work hard and you kill it, it doesn’t matter.”

The daughter of Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber humbly acknowledged, “I can’t overlook the advantage I’ve been given,” she shared with Elle in an article from January 2023. “Having a wealth of knowledge at my disposal and someone to provide me with sound guidance is something I greatly appreciate.

In regard to filmmaking, the actress from Bottoms stated, “An artist won’t compromise their creative vision for a child’s sake. Art isn’t produced that way, and my focus lies in artistic pursuits.

Furthermore, she pointed out, “It’s undesirable to collaborate with someone who’s irritating, difficult to work with, and unkind. While nepotism does exist, I believe that if it were as widespread as people claim, we would witness more instances of it.

Carving out her own cinematic universe, Elizabeth is proof that, sometimes, it just takes one.

As a child, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen’s younger sister expressed that she seemingly grasped the concept of nepotism intuitively when she was only ten years old. In an interview with Glamour UK in 2021, she shared her thoughts, stating that although she might not have known the term, there was a sense of unease within her about not earning something that disturbed her at a very young age. This feeling was rooted in her own insecurities and dates back to when she was ten years old.

The child of well-known entertainment personalities Anne Meara and Jerry Stiller holds the opinion that having one foot in the door can take you only so far.

As an avid fan, here’s how I might rephrase that in a more conversational, first-person style:

“Hey there! Just wanted to chime in on the nepotism talk about Hopper Penn being cast in Spielberg’s short film. Look, I’m not personally connected to any of them, but I think it’s safe to say they’ve all faced challenges. After all, Hollywood is a tough nut to crack, especially for those without industry connections. It’s a meritocracy at its core – talent and hard work ultimately prevail.

During the conversation, it was acknowledged that Hollywood wasn’t level for several reasons. The star of Meet the Parents made it clear by stating, “What I mean is that unskilled individuals usually don’t endure if they get an opportunity due to their connections or family ties instead of their talent.

Despite voicing his opinion earlier on, it was in February 2023 that the conversation around Ben intensified, as Steve Martin labeled him a “nepo baby” during a teaser for their upcoming Pepsi Super Bowl advertisements.

Dylan expressed her frustration to W after being cast in the 2021 drama “Flag Day,” directed by her father Sean Penn. She had mentioned that, as an actor, she has been auditioning for a long time and has faced rejection numerous times.

In relation to the controversy about her brother acting in a short film directed by Steven Spielberg’s daughter, Dylan emphasized, “That’s showbiz. It’s all about who you know. No matter if you’re Sean Penn’s son or not.

In an interview with TopMob News in February, Hopper, who first appeared on screen in Sean’s movie “The Last Face“, shared that the discussions surrounding “nepotism babies” didn’t particularly resonate with him.

He said, “If you enjoy it, fantastic. If not, even better,” explaining his recent collaboration on the film ‘Devil’s Peak’ with his mother Robin Wright. He added, “Should anyone suspect nepotism, I couldn’t care less because I will approach my work with the same professionalism as everyone else. Regardless if I’m working with my father or my mother, I won’t deliver half-hearted performances.

Working alongside his father proved to be just as challenging an ordeal for Hopper as it was for any actor not connected to the director, he observed.

In any project, he emphasized, “If I made a mistake on the first day of shooting, I would be let go like anyone else. If I’m not good, I won’t get better. Unfortunately, I’ve shown myself to be less than satisfactory in the past.

In a conversation with Elle magazine in February 2022, the star of High Fidelity mentioned that people often presume he landed his job because of his famous parents, Lisa Bonet and Lenny Kravitz.

Zoë went on, “That was tough, no doubt, but I was exceptionally fortunate. Securing an agent came smoothly for me. I won’t pretend that it didn’t open doors for me. However, I had to remind myself that my success wasn’t solely due to who I knew. My passion for acting ran deep, and as a child, I was already putting on shows in my grandparents’ house. My achievements were not a result of my family connections; it was all about the love I had for what I do.

Following an incident, the actress shared with GQ several months afterwards that it was quite typical for individuals to be involved in their family’s line of work, stating it as, “Entirely normal for people to be part of their family business.” She further explained, “It’s essentially where surnames originated. If your family was known as the Black family, you would likely be a blacksmith.

In a 2022 interview with Elle, the daughter of Johnny Depp and Vanessa Paradis acknowledged that others might have preconceived notions about her or how she landed roles. However, she firmly stated that there’s no shortcut to getting a role other than being perfectly suited for it.

It’s reasonable, yet the celebrity’s remark about the revitalized heated issue immediately sparked numerous other responses.

Lily-Rose shared with i-D a few months ago, “I’ve become more cautious about these discussions now.” She explained, “My parents did their utmost to provide me with as ‘ordinary a childhood’ as they could. Of course, even that was not a typical childhood. I’m fully aware that my childhood wasn’t like most people’s.

In response to Lily-Rose’s discussion, Kim Basinger and Alec Baldwin’s child concurred that the success or failure of children of celebrities is largely determined by their individual efforts. However, it’s often the initial rise to fame that is facilitated by a significant advantage.

In a TikTok video posted in November 2022, Ireland expressed gratitude towards her parents, stating, “I wouldn’t be where I am today or have the capabilities I possess without them. And I believe it’s a mistake to ignore that fact.

Instead of saying “She got that ‘either you’re talented, either you’re capable or you’re not’,” it might be clearer to express the idea as:

“Things would be simpler if she were straightforward about her abilities and reasons for having those abilities.”

This rephrased sentence conveys the same meaning but in a more natural and easy-to-understand manner.

In her interview on Hailey Bieber’s YouTube series “Who’s in My Bathroom?” in July 2022, the daughter of Blythe Danner and the late Bruce Paltrow acknowledged that being a child of famous parents gives you access that others don’t have. She emphasized that this uneven starting point means one has to work harder and be even more talented to prove oneself in the industry.

In 1989, Bruce served as director for Gwyneth’s acting debut in the TV movie ‘High’. Later, in 1991, Steven Spielberg added a magical touch by casting his 14-year-old goddaughter in the fantasy film ‘Hook’.

In a conversation with Bustle in October 2023, Gwyneth Paltrow mentioned that this “nepo baby” culture and the judgments associated with children of famous individuals have arisen, which she described as a somewhat unpleasant nickname.

Gwyneth Paltrow spoke about the current “nepo baby” phenomenon and the negative opinions people tend to have regarding kids from well-known families in an interview with Bustle, referring to the term as a not very flattering label.)

Raised by a renowned celebrity as her dad, the actress and activist often realized that her upbringing was significantly different from what most people experience.

At the age of ten, I relocated to the East Coast, and it struck me then, due to how I was perceived, that there was something unique about me, as Jane shared with Harvard Business Review in 2018. This revelation made me a bit self-conscious. Some individuals sought friendship because my father was Henry Fonda, while others disliked me because he was Henry Fonda. There were certainly advantages and disadvantages to this situation.

Speaking further, the two-time Academy Award winner shared that when she started her acting career, having a famous father like herself (Henry Fonda) certainly had its perks. People were more inclined to notice me, and this was undeniably beneficial. However, I felt it was crucial not to rely on my lineage for success, so I put in extra effort to prove myself. Instead of attending one acting class a week, I would immerse myself in four, ensuring no one could label me as a casual hobbyist.

Working in an industry you’re passionate about, especially when your parent is already part of it, is a truly remarkable blessing. As the Jurassic World star, who made her debut as “Redheaded Audience Girl” in dad Ron Howard’s Parenthood, shared with The Daily Beast in 2020, success and influence in the same field are wonderful perks. However, nothing compares to the immense privilege of having a parent like mine—someone who was always supportive, empowering, and showed genuine respect from day one.

Indeed, I often find myself reminding individuals that while external factors may sometimes influence success, it’s crucial to remember that they are merely minor details. The vast majority of our accomplishments stem from within ourselves and our own efforts.

In my own words, I proudly embrace the role of a father nurturing talent within our family. Ethan, being the father of Maya, shared with Variety in September that he was thrilled to direct his daughter in ‘Wildcat’. And let me assure you, there’s no shame in it.

In her role as writer Flannery O’Connor in the film, Maya expressed some apprehensions during filming. However, the internet lacks finesse. My father has served as an immense mentor for me, and we share a desire to collaborate further. We genuinely enjoy spending time together.

In a 2021 interview with People, the 25-year-old expressed that she was aware of her limitations as her parents’ child and understood the possibility of being given a few chances. If she didn’t perform well, she expected to be removed from their sphere of influence, or in other words, “kicked out of the kingdom.” She added that this was fair and she would do her best not to disappoint.

Just prior to claiming her first Oscar for her supporting role in “Everything Everywhere All At Once,” the offspring of the late screen icons Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh, delightfully poked fun at the current cultural moment.

Jamie Lee, who is married to Christopher Guest, an actor himself, expressed her feelings during her SAG Award acceptance speech in February 2023. She acknowledged that people might assume she’s there due to family connections, but at the age of 64, she emphasized the extraordinary nature of this achievement.

In his interview on Armchair Expert in 2018, Colin expressed that when he first began his career, he held a youthful and affectionate ignorance, assuming it wouldn’t be as challenging as it turned out to be, believing he would be given the chance to prove himself as an individual. However, he found out that this didn’t occur.

The 46-year-old, who made his film debut as “Male Page” in his father’s first directorial venture “That Thing You Do!” in 1996, expressed on the Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend show in October 2022 that he acknowledges his dad for urging him to pursue acting only if it was truly his passion.

Tom suggested, “If you’re not truly invested, consider another option, as sticking with it might lead to misery.

Tom, father to Colin, Elizabeth, Chet, and Truman (his children with late ex-wife Samantha Lewes and his current spouse Rita Wilson respectively), referred to the entertainment industry as merely “our family business”.

Tom shared with Reuters in January 2023 that this practice has been a constant in their lives: “It’s something we’ve always done, it’s part of our upbringing. We have four children who are all quite creative and actively engaged in different forms of storytelling.

Additionally, it wasn’t difficult for director Marc Forster to choose Truman as the younger version of Tom in “A Man Called Otto”. As the esteemed Oscar winner explained during the film’s premiere, “Ultimately, it boils down to whether the person appears on set and hits their marks honestly. That decision ultimately rests with him alone. It was entirely his choice.

A scion of one of the most storied Hollywood dynasties, Drew couldn’t escape her famous last name.

Although being the granddaughter of screen legend John Barrymore may have carried some weight, Drew Barrymore, famously known for “Never Been Kissed”, expressed her thoughts on her talk show in January 2023. She said, “If you were from a family of lawyers and someone remarked, ‘Oh, well, her father heads the firm,’ it’s like saying, ‘Well, she still passed the bar and made it here on her own.’ So as long as we celebrate rather than criticize, that’s the spirit I aim for.

Heidi Klum’s oldest child is doing well, largely due to the influence of her supermodel mother and father Seal. However, it’s ultimately her decision to continue being part of the family.

In a conversation with People magazine last October, Leni, aged 19, acknowledged the fact that she has a famous family background. She admitted to receiving initial assistance, but emphasized that she’s putting in the effort and time herself now, focusing on her independent work, traveling solo, and pursuing education. She shared that her mother and she share a common passion for the same thing, but stressed their individual journeys.

Judd Apatow’s and Leslie Mann’s eldest child, understandably felt upset by being labeled a “nepotism baby,” yet she was making an effort to remain unfazed by it.

In an interview with Net-a-Porter for their September 2022 article, the star of Euphoria expressed that many individuals in comparable circumstances have demonstrated their abilities over time, so she must persist and produce quality work. She acknowledged that her career is still in its infancy and doesn’t have much to show yet, but she hopes that one day she will be able to take pride in the accomplishments she has achieved independently.

In a tweet posted in December 2022, Allen defended her position by stating, “It’s the nepotism offspring you should be concerned about who are working in legal firms, banks, and politics. If we’re discussing genuine world impacts and denying chances to others, it’s important to note. However, that’s not something I’m involved in.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d like to weigh in on the ongoing discussion about nepotism in the entertainment industry, particularly the focus on TikTok and its impact on rising stars. Now, I must clarify that, as someone whose parents are Keith Allen, an actor, and Alison Owen, a film producer, I understand the concerns being voiced. However, it’s important to remember that every individual’s journey in this industry is unique, and while family connections can provide opportunities, they don’t guarantee success. Let’s keep the conversation going, but let’s also celebrate the hard work and talent that each rising star brings to the table. After all, it’s not just about who you know, but what you do with the opportunities you have.

She expressed on X (previously known as Twitter) that the industry struggles with an alarming deficit in representation when it comes to social class and race. This issue negatively impacts everyone involved…However, I also believe that nepotism children are being unfairly targeted in this discussion. A broader, societal conversation about wealth disparity, the lack of programs, and funding is necessary.

In her opinion, it’s nothing to be ashamed of if your parents, the late Sen. John McCain and Cindy McCain, have achieved much. However, one should take pride in this fact and acknowledge it openly.

In response to other individuals often referred to as ‘Nepo babies’, she suggested on Instagram Stories in December 2022, “Recognize the advantage your family name has provided you and then let’s proceed,” she proposed. “At some point, talent and hard work matters, but it’s not fair or reasonable to assume this is a disadvantage just because people know who your parents are—you sound arrogant.

As a die-hard fan, I can’t help but wonder if Stephen Baldwin’s daughter has any more to share about the “Nepo Baby” controversy. Being related to the legendary trio of Alec, Billy, and Daniel Baldwin, her perspective would undoubtedly be fascinating. Is there a chance she could open up more about this intriguing topic?

Though she did.

In June, Hailey expressed, “‘This is the stance I’m taking in response to what others are saying,’ was essentially my intention when I communicated in a very straightforward manner on The Circuit With Emily Chang. Without a doubt, I acknowledge being a ‘nepo baby,’ and I proudly accept it.

In February 2023, Bruce Willis and Demi Moore’s youngest daughter paid tribute to her older sisters Rumer Willis and Scout Willis, acknowledging their style as the offspring of Hollywood celebrities.

In an interview with Glamour, the queen of romantic comedies expressed that her son Jack Quaid, who she co-parents with Dennis Quaid, is incredibly gifted. She admits he possesses a natural talent far beyond anything she could achieve herself.

Meg stated, “It’s disregarding his hard work, talents, and awareness of his privileges when people focus only on the ‘nepotism’ aspect of him.

Jack is certainly aware of the assumptions that are made about the children of actors.

2022 saw me sharing with Thrillist my secret: people would persistently remark, “Oh, I know how he landed that role!” Yet, their speculations won’t dampen my spirit. After all, if I understand the path that led me there, that knowledge is more than enough for me.

Now 31, Jack decided long ago there was no point trying to hide his parentage.

He expressed on Allegedly with Matthew Cole Weiss in 2016 that he didn’t feel like running away from it. Instead, he was a big admirer of their work. Since he couldn’t audition until he turned 18, Jack mentioned that if his parents weren’t actors, he would still be thrilled to have this job.

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2025-07-09 00:18