It's All Relative (Part 2)

It’s All Relative (Part 2)

In this second of a two part series, we continue with some of the actors and actresses who not only share the limelight but are part of the same family!

Ben and Casey Affleck

Ben Affleck has long been a favorite of writer/director/actor Kevin Smith. Affleck has appeared in several of Smith’s movies including “Mallrats” (1995), “Chasing Amy” (1997), “Dogma” (1999) and the recent Clerks II. With friend Matt Damon, he co-wrote “Good Will Hunting” (1997) for which he won a screenplay Oscar for. In recent years, Ben Affleck has starred in the action/drama “Reindeer Games” (2000), Pearl Harbor, the title character in “Daredevil” (2003) and the critically acclaimed “Hollywoodland” (2006). Younger brother, Casey Affleck, has also made notable appearances in such films as “To Die For” (1995), “Drowning Mona” (2000), “Ocean’s 11” (2001) and its sequels and the upcoming “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford” (2007) with Brad Pitt. Casey is married to Summer Phoenix, sister of actors Joaquin and River Phoenix.

James Arness and Peter Graves

These brothers have had a long, distinguished career in front of the cameras! James Arness is best known for his legendary role as Matt Dillon on TV’s long running western “Gunsmoke”. He also appeared on the silver screen in “The Thing” (1951), “Them!” (1954) and “The Sea Chase” (1955) is Lana Turner and John Wayne. Not including the recent Geico insurance commercials, Peter Graves has been the distinctive voice behind cable TV’s “Biography” series. He has also starred in “Stalag 17” (1953), the chiller “The Night of the Hunter” (1955) and in the 1980 comedy “Airplane!” as well as its sequel.

The Arquette Family

Alexis Arquette, David Arquette, Patricia Arquette, Richmond Arquette, Rosanna Arquette

Movie and TV fans have heard of the Arquette name. Oldest sister, Rosanna, has starred on TV as well as “Desperately Seeking Susan” (1985), “Pulp Fiction” (1994), “The Whole Nine Yards” (2000) and an uncredited role in “Joe Dirt” (2001). Richmond may not be as widely known as some of his siblings but has appeared in several movies including “Se7en” (1995) and “Fight Club” (1999) both with Brad Pitt and 2001’s “See Jane Run”. Younger sister, Patricia, is currently the star of the popular TV show, “Medium”. She has also co-starred in such memorable movies as “Ed Wood” (1994) with Johnny Depp, “Stigmata” (1995) with Gabriel Byrne, “Bringing Out the Dead” (1999) with then husband Nicolas Cage and 2000’s “Little Nicky”. Alexis Arquette recently co-starred on the VH1 reality show “The Surreal Life”. She has appeared in the hit comedy “The Wedding Singer” (1998) with Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler, “The Bride of Chucky” (1998), “She’s All That” (1999) and “Lords of Dogtown” (2005). Youngest brother, David, is probably best known for his comedic roles in film. He has co-starred in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” (1992) with Kristy Swanson, “Airheads” (1994), as Dewey in the Scream movies, “Ready to Rumble” (2000) and “3000 Miles to Graceland” (2001).

The Barrymore Family

Drew Barrymore, Ethel Barrymore, John Barrymore, John Drew Barrymore, Lionel Barrymore

The Barrymore family has long been a staple in Hollywood. Current moviegoers are probably most familiar with Drew Barrymore. As a young girl, Barrymore starred in the blockbuster “E.T.” (1982) and as Charlie in “Firestarter” (1984). In recent years, she has starred in “Ever After” (1998), “Never Been Kissed” (1999) and “Fever Pitch” (2005). Drew’s father, John Drew Barrymore (1932-2004) had a successful career in TV and film as well.

John Drew Barrymore’s father was the legendary actor John Barrymore (1882-1942). Just as well known for his off screen escapades, John Barrymore had a distinguished career in film, starring in such movies as “Marie Antoinette” (1938) and as Captain Ahab in “Moby Dick” (1930). He would star alongside his brother Lionel Barrymore (1878-1954) in the classic film “Grand Hotel” (1932). Lionel is probably best remembered for his role as Mr. Potter in the timeless It’s a Wonderful Life. He also co-starred in “Mata Hari” (1931), as Dr. Leonard Gillespie in the “Dr. Kildare” series throughout the 1930s and ‘40s, “On Borrowed Time” (1939) and in “Key Largo” (1948). Lionel would win the Academy Award for best actor for his role in “A Free Soul” (1931). John and Lionel’s only onscreen appearance with their sister Ethel would be in 1932’s “Rasputin and the Empress”. Ethel Barrymore won the best supporting actress Oscar for 1944’s “None but the Lonely” (1944) and would go on to co-star in “Pinky” (1949) which brought another nomination and “Young at Heart” 1954 with Doris Day and Frank Sinatra.

Jim and John Belushi

John Belushi (1949-1982) was one of the premier cast members of TV’s “Saturday Night Live”. Before his untimely death in 1982, the comedian/actor had starred in such memorable films as “Animal House” (1978), “1941” (1979) and “The Blues Brothers” (1980). Younger brother Jim Belushi is currently the star of the TV sitcom “According to Jim”. He appeared in “Little Shop of Horrors” (1986), the comedy “Real Men” (1987), “K-9” (1989), “Mr. Destiny” (1990) and 1996’s “Jingle All the Way” (1996). Jim recently lent his voice to the character of the Woodsman in the 2005 animated film “Hoodwinked”.

Lon Chaney and Lon Chaney Jr.

Lon Chaney (1883-1830) was the master of disguise during the early days of film. Probably best known for portraying the title character (as well as developing the makeup) in “The Phantom of the Opera” (1925), Lon Chaney starred in hundreds of silent films including “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” (1923) where he played Quasimodo and 1927’s “Dr. Wu”. His son, Lon Chaney Jr. (1906-1973) would also be immortalized on film. Although Lon Chaney Jr. is best known for Wolfman, he also portrayed his fair share of horror creatures throughout his career. He also received kudos for his work in “Of Mice and Men” (1939) and appeared in “High Noon” (1952).

Blythe Danner, Bruce Paltrow and Gwyneth Paltrow

Director Bruce Paltrow (1943-2002) was the man behind the camera for the popular TV show “St. Elsewhere”. He also directed “Duets” (2000) which starred his daughter, Gwyneth Paltrow. Gwyneth has starred in “Hook” (1991), “Se7en” (1995), “Shakespeare in Love” (1998) for which she won a best actress Oscar, “The Talented Mr. Ripley” (1999) and Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow. She recently co-starred in “Infamous” (2006). Gwyneth’s mother is stage/TV/movie actress Blythe Danner. Recent filmgoers will remember her as Dina in Meet the Parents and “Meet the Fockers” (2004). She has also appeared in “The Prince of Tides” (1991), “X-Files: The Movie” (1998) and “Forces of Nature” (1999).

Rebecca DeMornay, Patrick O’Neal, Ryan O’Neal and Tatum O’Neal

Ryan O’Neal has been a star of the silver screen for several decades. He received an Oscar nomination for his role in the romantic tear-jerker “Love Story” (1970) and would go on to star in “A Bridge Too Far” (1977) and “Zero Effect” (1998). Ryan would also co-star with his daughter, Tatum O’Neal, in “Paper Moon” (1973) for which she received the best supporting actress Academy Award. Tatum has also starred in 1976’s “The Bad News Bears” and 1980’s “Little Darlings”. Ryan’s son, Patrick O’Neal, has appeared on numerous TV shows and had a role in 1990’s “Die Hard 2” as Telford. Patrick is married to actress Rebecca DeMornay who has starred in “Risky Business” (1983), had a memorable role in “The Hand That Rocks the Cradle” (1992), “The Three Musketeers” (1993), 1995’s “Never Talk to Strangers” with Antonio Banderas and “Identity” (2003).

Bruce Dern, Laura Dern and Diane Ladd

Laura Dern’s parents are Bruce Dern and Diane Ladd. Each has found success in movies. Bruce Dern has appeared in “The Great Gatsby” (1974) and received an Oscar nomination for his work in “Coming Home” (1978). Afterwards, he appeared in the comedy “Down Periscope” (1996), The Haunting and the dramatic “Monster” (2002). Diane Ladd, a star of TV and film, has appeared in a number of films including “Christmas Vacation” (1989), “Primary Colors” (1998) and “28 Days” (2000). She has received three Oscar nominations, one of which, “Rambling Rose” (1991), her daughter, Laura Dern, also received a nod for. Laura also shared the screen with her mom in 1990’s “Wild at Heart”. She has appeared in “Mask” (1985) with Cher, as Dr. Ellie Sattler in Jurassic Park and in 1999’s “October Sky”.

Kirk and Michael Douglas

This father and son team has had a stellar Hollywood career. Kirk Douglas has been immortalized in such films as “Champion” (1949), “The Glass Menagerie” (1950), “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” (1954) and the epic “Spartacus” (1960). Michael Douglas followed successfully in his father’s footsteps. He had three hit movies starring opposite Kathleen Turner in the ‘80s: “Romancing the Stone” (1984), “The Jewel of the Nile” (1985) and “War of the Roses” (1989). Michael would also star in such memorable movies as “Fatal Attraction” (1987), “Wall Street” (1987) for which he won the best actor Oscar, “Basic Instinct” (1992) opposite Sharon Stone, “A Perfect Murder” (1998) with Gwyneth Paltrow and “Traffic” (2000) with wife Catherine Zeta-Jones.

Emilio Estevez, Charlie Sheen and Martin Sheen

Martin Sheen has had a long and successful career in TV and films. For several years, he starred as President Bartlet on the hit TV drama “The West Wing”. In 1979 Sheen starred in “Apocalypse Now” and went on to appear as General Robert E. Lee in “Gettysburg” (1993). He was recently seen in “The Departed” (2006) and appears in “Bobby” (2006) that was written, directed and stars son Emilio Estevez. Emilio has followed successfully in his father’s footsteps, starring in “The Breakfast Club” (1985), “Stakeout” (1987) and in an uncredited role in Mission: Impossible. He has also starred with younger brother, Charlie Sheen, in several movies including the “Young Guns” films and the comedy “Men at Work” (1990). Charlie, who has recently been starring in the hit TV sitcom “Two and a Half Men”, has had roles in “Platoon” (1986) and “Navy Seals” (1990) as wells as the “Major League”, “Hot Shots” and “Scary Movie” (3 and 4) films.

The Howard Family

Bryce Dallas Howard, Clint Howard, Rance Howard, Ron Howard

Rance Howard, father of Ron and Clint, has performed in a variety of films over the past decades. He has appeared in “Sgt. Bilko” (1996) with Steve Martin, the sci-fi thriller “Independence Day” (1996), “Ghosts of the Mississippi” (1996), “Small Soldiers” (1998), the comedy “Rat Race” (2001) and “The Alamo” (2004). Clint Howard has made a name for himself as an actor, especially in memorable horror flicks. He was appeared in “The Waterboy” (1998), as Johnson in the Austin Powers movies and in 2005’s “Fun with Dick and Jane”. Clint recently voiced the character of the Balloon Man in the animated “Curious George” (2006).

Older brother Ron Howard started his career starring as Opie on TV’s “The Andy Griffith Show” and later as Richie Cunningham on “Happy Days”. He would also star in the films “The Courtship of Eddie Father” (1963) with Glenn Ford and the classic “American Graffiti” (1973). In recent years, Ron has been a force to reckon with behind the camera as a producer and director. He has brought such films as “Splash” (1984), “Cocoon” (1985), How the Grinch Stole Christmas, “A Beautiful Mind” (2001) for which he won a best directing Oscar and the 2006 hit movie “The Da Vinci Code” to the screen.

Ron’s daughter, Bryce Dallas Howard, is also establishing herself as an actress. She has appeared in two M. Night Shyamalan movies, “The Village” (2004) and “Lady in the Water” (2006), and is set to star in the upcoming “Spider-Man 3” (2007).

Anjelica Huston, John Huston and Walter Huston

Walter Huston (1884-1950) was an accomplished actor having co-starred in “The Devil and Daniel Webster” (1941) and “Yankee Doodle Dandy” (1942). He won the best supporting actor Oscar for his work in “The Treasure of the Sierre Madre” (1948) which was directed by his son John Huston (1906-1987). The movie also won the award for best picture. John Huston appeared on screen in “The Cardinal” (1963) for which he received a supporting actor nod and 1974’s “Chinatown”. He was also a legendary director having been behind the camera on such films as “The Maltese Falcon” (1941), “Key Largo” (1948) and “The African Queen” (1951) which all starred Humphrey Bogart. Huston also directed the classic “Asphalt Jungle” (1950) and 1985’s “Prizzi’s Honor” which starred his daughter Anjelica Huston. Anjelica would go on to win the best supporting actress Oscar for her role in the movie. She has also had a successful career in movies, appearing in such films as “This is Spinal Tap” (1984), “The Grifters” (1990) for which she received a best actress nod, as Morticia in 1991’s “The Addams Family” and its 1993 sequel, Eddie Murphy’s nemesis in “Daddy Daycare” (2003) and opposite Bill Murray in “The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou” (2004).

Bruce and Brandon Lee

Bruce Lee (1940-1973) is considered one of the greatest martial arts experts of all time. Lee portrayed Kato in “The Green Hornet” TV series and went on to star in the kung fu films “Fist of Fury” (1972) and “Enter the Dragon” (1973). The popularity of his films skyrocketed after his untimely death. Brandon Lee (1965-1993) was set to follow in his father’s footsteps. However, his promising career was cut short during a fatal mishap on the set of “The Crow” (1994).

Chad and Rob Lowe

These brothers have been a staple in cinema for a number of years. Younger brother, Chad Lowe, co-starred opposite Richard Gere and Diane Lane in 2002’s Unfaithful. Besides a stint on TV’s “The West Wing”, Rob Lowe has starred in “The Outsiders” (1983), “St. Elmo’s Fire” (1985), 1992’s “Wayne’s World”, all three Austin Powers movies and the recent “Thank You For Smoking” (2005).

The Phoenix Family

Joaquin Phoenix, Rain Phoenix, River Phoenix

Older brother River Phoenix (1970-1993) was a critically acclaimed actor, having received an Oscar nomination for his work in “Running on Empty” (1988) before his untimely death in 1993. River had amassed an extensive film resume that included roles in “Stand By Me” (1986), as a Young Indy in “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” (1989), “My Own Private Idaho” (1991) with Keanu Reeves and “Sneakers” (1992) with Robert Redford. Younger sister Rain has also had film success in “Maid to Order” (1987), “O” (2001) and the comedy “Hitch” (2005). Youngest brother, Joaquin, has garnered two Academy nods for his roles in “Gladiator” (2001) and Walk the Line. He has also made an impact in such features as “Quills” (2000), “Buffalo Soldiers” (2001) and “Signs” (2002).

Dennis and Randy Quaid

Randy Quaid is the older brother of fellow actor Dennis Quaid. Randy is probably best known as Cousin Eddie in the “Vacation” movies with Chevy Chase. He has also appeared in “Days of Thunder” (1990), the comedy “Kingpin” (1996) and the critically acclaimed movie “Brokeback Mountain” (2005). Dennis Quaid has had an equally successful career in such films as “Great Balls of Fire” (1989) where he starred as Jerry Lee Lewis. He also starred in “Wyatt Earp” (1994) as Doc Holliday, Any Given Sunday, “Far From Heaven” (2002) and in the comedy remake “Yours, Mine and Ours” (2005).

Lynn Redgrave, Vanessa Redgrave, Joely Richardson, Natasha Richardson

Lynn Redgrave is an accomplished actress of TV and movies. The legendary actress has appeared in the critically acclaimed movies “Tom Jones” (1963), “Shine” (1996), 1998’s “Gods and Monsters” for which she received an Oscar nomination, “Kinsey” (2004) and the action/adventure “Peter Pan” (2003). Her older sister, Vanessa Redgrave, received a best supporting actress Academy Award for “Julia” (1977) and another nomination for her role in “Howard’s End” (1992). She has also appeared in Mission: Impossible, “Deep Impact” and “Girl, Interrupted” (1999). Vanessa has also appeared on the small screen in the medical drama “Nip/Tuck” which stars her daughter, Joely Richardson. Besides appearing on the hit TV show, Richardson has found success on the silver screen in “101 Dalmatians” (1996), the sci-fi thriller “Event Horizon” (1996), The Patriot opposite Mel Gibson and the 2001 drama “The Affair of the Necklace”. Joely’s older sister, Natasha Richardson has starred in “Nell” (1994) with Jodie Foster and real life husband Liam Neeson, 2001’s “Blow Dry” with Josh Hartnett and Alan Rickman, “Maid in Manhattan” (2002) and the critically acclaimed 2005 films “White Countess” and “Asylum”.

The Ritter Family

Jason Ritter, John Ritter, Tex Ritter, Dorothy Fay Southworth

Tex Ritter (1905-1974) was not only a popular singer but starred in dozens of movies throughout the 1930s and ‘40’s. His wife, Dorothy Fay Southworth (1915-2003) would also have a successful career in film, appearing in such movies as “The Green Archer” (1940) and an uncredited role in “Philadelphia Story” (1940). Their son, John Ritter (1948-2003) would achieve fame on TV and in movies. John starred as Jack Tripper in the popular TV show “Three’s Company” and was working on the hit sitcom “8 Simple Rules for Dating My Teenage Daughter” at the time of his untimely death. Over the years, John Ritter had starred in “Skin Deep” (1989), the “Problem Child” movies in the early ‘90’s and co-starred with Billy Bob Thornton in two movies, “Sling Blade” (1996) and Bad Santa. John’s son, Jason Ritter, is also an up and coming actor. Besides TV, Jason has appeared in “Mumford” (1999), “Swimfan” (2002), “Freddy vs. Jason” (2003) and “The Wicker Man” (2006) with Nicolas Cage.

Mira and Paul Sorvino

Mira Sorvino recently received critical praise for her work in the made-for-TV film “Human Trafficking”. After winning the Oscar for best supporting actress for “Mighty Aphrodite” (1995), Mira went on to appear in “Mimic” (1997), “The Replacement Killers” (1998) and “Gods and Generals” (2003). Mira’s father is Paul Sorvino. The accomplished actor has starred in “Reds” (1981), “Goodfellas” (1990), “Romeo + Juliet” (1996) with Claire Danes and Leonardo DiCaprio and “The Cooler” (2003).

Ben and Jerry Stiller

Ben Stiller has made a reputation for himself by starring in a number of comedic blockbusters. He has starred opposite Cameron Diaz in There’s Something About Mary, Meet the Parents, “Along Came Polly” (2004) with Jennifer Aniston, Dodgeball and “School for Scoundrels” (2006). He lent his voice for the animated hit “Madagascar” (2005) and next appears on the screen in “Night at the Museum” (2006). Ben’s dad, Jerry Stiller, is probably best known as Frank Costanza on the TV comedy “Seinfeld” or as Arthur on “King of Queens”. He has appeared in “Serving Sara” (2002) and in 1988’s “Hairspray”. Jerry Stiller starred opposite Ben in the 2001 comedy “Zoolander”.

Donald and Kiefer Sutherland

This father and son duo has each had a successful career in TV and movies. Donald Sutherland has starred in memorable roles in “The Dirty Dozen” (1967), “M*A*S*H” (1970), “Kelly’s Heroes” (1971), Cold Mountain, “Pride and Prejudice” (2005) and an uncredited role in “Beerfest” (2006). His son, Kiefer Sutherland, is currently the star of the TV series “24”. He has starred on the big screen in “Stand By Me” (1986), 1987’s horror flick The Lost Boys, “Bright Lights, Big City” (1988) with Michael J. Fox, “Dark City” (1998) and “The Sentinel” (2006) with Michael Douglas.

John and Nicolas Turturro

John Turturro has played a wide range of characters in movies. He has co-starred in “Miller’s Crossing” (1990), O Brother Where Art Thou, Anger Management with Adam Sandler and “Secret Window” (2004) with Johnny Depp. He can next be seen in “The Good Shepherd” (2006) and the live action “Transformers” (2007). John’s younger brother, Nicholas Turturro, is also an accomplished actor. He has appeared in “Malcolm X” (1992), the 2005 remake The Longest Yard and “World Trade Center” (2006).

Donnie and Mark Wahlberg

Music careers aside, the Wahlberg brothers have had a successful run on the silver screen. Older brother, Donnie Wahlberg, has appeared in “Ransom” (1996), “The Sixth Sense” (1999), “Band of Brothers” (2001) and the horror flick “Saw II” (2005) and its 2006 sequel. Mark Wahlberg has starred in “Fear” (1996), in a critically acclaimed role in “Boogie Nights” (1997), the blockbuster “Perfect Storm” (2000), the 2001 remake of “Planet of the Apes” and in the recent “The Departed” (2006).

Luke and Owen Wilson

These two brothers have appeared in films together and separately. The pair co-starred in the 2001 movie “The Royal Tenenbaums”. Older brother, Owen Wilson has starred in “Anaconda” (1997), the action/adventure “Armageddon” (1998), the remake of the horror film The Haunting, “Shanghai Noon” (2000), The Wedding Crashers and the recent animated hit “Cars” (2006). He next appears in “Night at the Museum” (2006). Luke Wilson has co-starred in Charlie’s Angels and “Legally Blonde” (2001) movies and their sequels. He also made an uncredited appearance in the 2004 Anchorman and starred in “The Family Stone” (2005) and “My Super Ex-Girlfriend” (2006) with Uma Thurman.

For these movies and more visit: