The daughter of Australian tennis legend Lleyton Hewitt and actress Bec Hewitt, Mia Hewitt, is making her mark as she steps onto the set of the popular soap opera Home and Away. Having worked for over a year as a casual wardrobe assistant, the 19-year-old has sparked both excitement and controversy among fans and critics alike.
Mia’s mother, Bec, famously starred as Hayley Smith Lawson on Home and Away from 1998 until 2005, making her a household name. Now the spotlight is shifting back to the Hewitt family, as Mia follows in her mother’s footsteps, albeit behind the camera for now. A spokesperson from Channel Seven confirmed, "She is not cast, she is part of the crew, working as a casual wardrobe assistant, and has been part of the Home and Away family for the past year and a half."
This role isn't just about the glitz of fame; Mia's responsibilities are grounded, involving help on set and maintaining wardrobe for cast members.
Despite her dedication, the announcement of Mia's involvement has not come without critique. Comments on social media ranged from skepticism to outright derision. "I bet she didn't even have to interview," one user quipped, echoing the general sentiment about the privileges of growing up under the spotlight. Others chimed in with "Privilege much?" and "No special treatment, except for her actually being there in the first place," reflecting concerns over nepotism within the industry.
But not everyone holds this view. One commenter noted, "Good on her for wanting a job. Kids can't pick their parents," supportively addressing the challenges faced by children of celebrities trying to carve out their own paths. This discussion around nepotism—dubbed the ‘nepo baby’ phenomenon—has gained traction recently, with critics arguing it limits opportunities for less connected artists.
While Mia navigates the backlash, she is simultaneously pursuing her passion for music, performing with her band, Father’s Favourite, which she co-founded. Describing their sound as “bohemian rock ‘n’ roll,” the duo aims to forge their identity separate from familial affiliations. Mia plays guitar and provides vocals, engaging with the thriving music scene around Sydney.
Mia’s artistic endeavors shouldn't overshadow the credentials she brings to the table. She holds a Diploma of Branded Fashion Design from Torrens University, which adds to her creative arsenal as she works within the fashion side of Home and Away. Her early career saw her land positions beyond just the television set; she had previously worked at the prestigious Christian Dior fashion boutique from the age of fifteen, showcasing her commitment to the fashion world.
The backdrop of Mia’s recent endeavors paints the picture of someone deeply intertwined with artistic spheres. Mia began drawing attention after being spotted at various events, including Paris Fashion Week, where she attended alongside her mother, always dressed to impress.
The Hewitt family, known for their close-knit dynamics, has been supportive of each other's ventures. Lleyton and Bec share three children—Mia, Cruz, 15, and Ava, 13—with Cruz currently pursuing tennis, reminiscent of his father's illustrious career. Mia’s ability to showcase her talents alongside her siblings speaks volumes of the family’s push for artistic and athletic achievement.
While Mia's role on Home and Away may serve as the launchpad for her public presence, it's her passion for music and her frame of reference through education and personal experiences, which may define her career. The multifaceted Hewitt household embodies the struggles and successes of family legacies, especially as Mia echoes the sentiment of several millennials and Gen Zers trying to make their imprint on the world against the backdrop of family legacy.
With mixed feedback surrounding her role, Mia Hewitt appears unfazed as she establishes herself within Australia's entertainment industry. She is charting her course, carving out her responsibilities behind the scenes, all the more determined to rise above expectations set by her last name. Currently, it is Mia's moment to shine, and whether that's through the wardrobe, the music stage, or perhaps someday as the leading actress is yet to be seen.
