Meg Ryan on Protecting Jack Quaid in the Celebrity World
Meg Ryan, aged 62, recently spoke with Glamour, expressing her protective instincts towards her son, Jack Quaid, amid the challenges of celebrity life. She commented on the difficulty and strangeness of the celebrity world, something she doesn’t wish on anyone.
Jack Quaid, 31, the child of Meg Ryan and Dennis Quaid, has come under scrutiny in the ongoing debate about “nepo babies” – a term for children of celebrities who achieve fame, often perceived as benefiting from their parents’ renown. Critics argue these individuals gain success more because of familial connections than personal talent.
However, Meg Ryan dismisses the nepo baby discussion as trivial, praising Jack’s natural talent and dedication. She feels labeling him a nepo baby undermines his work ethic and talents, and his awareness of his privileged position.
Jack Quaid, most recognized for his role as Huey Campbell in “The Boys,” began his acting career with the role of Marvel in “The Hunger Games” in 2012. His career includes significant roles in “Logan Lucky,” “Plus One,” “Scream,” “Oppenheimer,” and “Star Trek: Lower Decks.” Meg Ryan is also mother to Daisy, 18, whom she adopted in 2006.
In a 2022 interview with Thrillist, Jack discussed the nepo baby topic, revealing he had considered changing his name and that his father initially refused to let him have an agent. Jack accepts that people will speculate about how he got his roles, but for him, it’s enough to know his own truth.
Reflecting on Jack’s early talent, Meg Ryan recounted an incident from his middle school days. Watching him perform in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” she realized his exceptional acting ability. Dennis Quaid, seated separately, shared this realization. Meg Ryan and Dennis Quaid, who divorced in 2001 after a decade of marriage, both recognized their son’s potential from this early age.
Meg Ryan also spoke warmly of her experiences as a mother to Jack and Daisy, praising their vivacity, curiosity, and the joy of being in their company.
