Lívian Aragão, the daughter of Brazilian comedy legend Renato Aragão, has stirred up controversy online after referring to actress Fernanda Torres as "nepobaby" upon congratulating her for winning the 2025 Golden Globe for Best Actress. Lívian's Instagram post, which celebrated Torres' triumph and sparked outrage, stated, "Dia de muita emoção pros nepobabies. Fernanda, a gente te ama!" (A day of great emotion for the nepobabies. Fernanda, we love you!).
The term "nepobaby", derived from "nepotism baby", is often used pejoratively to describe children of famous parents who are believed to achieve success mainly through connections rather than their own talent. Fernanda Torres is widely recognized not only as the daughter of acclaimed actress Fernanda Montenegro but as someone who has built her own successful acting career.
Following Lívian's comment, social media erupted with varying opinions. Many users felt her remark was disrespectful, arguing it diminished the substantial accomplishments of Torres. One internet user stated, "Só que a Fernanda é a única nepobaby que transcendeu esse status e chegou ao patamar da mãe, diferente de outras nepotistas que sempre serão nepotistas" (But Fernanda is the only nepobaby who transcended this status and reached the level of her mother, unlike other nepotists who will always be nepotists). Comments such as these highlight the belief among fans and supporters of Torres, who feel she has surpassed the label of "nepobaby" through her hard work and talent.
Reactions to Lívian's comments were swift and intense, with some users harshly criticizing her. One remarked, "Essa não pode ver uma vergonha que corre para passar!" (She can't see embarrassment without running to post about it!). Others echoed similar sentiments, with one individual asserting, "Ela já não tem!" (She doesn't have any!), pointing out the distinction between Lívian's career and Torres'.
Additions to the conversation shed light on the growing unease around the term. With its use becoming increasingly common, especially when referencing successful children of famous figures, the appropriateness of such labels is regularly debated. Many feel it unfairly undermines individual achievements and reduces success to mere inheritance.
Fernanda Torres has historically been seen as more than just her mother’s daughter. Her performances have garnered significant acclaim, and she has established herself as one of Brazil's leading actresses. This is a narrative Lívian's comments appeared to jeopardize, stirring critics to rush to Fernanda’s defense.
Supporters of Torres were eager to remind everyone just how much she has accomplished on her own. One supporter emphasized, "A Fernanda Torres pegou a oportunidade que a vida deu e foi estudar, se esforçar e desenvolver seu talento" (Fernanda Torres seized the opportunities life gave her and worked hard to study, develop her talent). This response encapsulates the broader sentiment: While connections may open doors, it is dedication and one’s own merit which lead to lasting success.
While Lívian intended her post to be celebratory, it opened up discussions about the nature of privilege, legacy, and meritocracy within the entertainment industry. The conversations swirling around "nepobabies" reflect not just on individual figures, but on the societal structures supporting or hindering them.
Lívian Aragão's choice of words serves as an example of how easy it can be to invoke strong emotional responses when discussing someone's accomplishments, especially when those achievements are tied to their lineage. With the spotlight now on her, Lívian continues to navigate the fallout from her suspension of judgment.
Going forward, this situation may encourage both public figures and their children to be more cautious with their words. After all, both praise and criticism can come thick and fast, particularly when fame and family intertwine. For now, the saga raises pressing questions: how do we measure success, and how important are the stories we tell about ourselves and others?