Jack Nicholson’s Son Ray Reacts to Their Identical Horror Film Grins at the Premiere of 'Smile 2'

There’s another nepo baby taking over Hollywood and it might be in the horror genre this spooky season. Jack Nicholson’s son, Ray Nicholson, is not only his dad’s doppelgänger, but he’s also quite good at the creepy smile that made his dad famous in the 1980 classic thriller, The Shining.

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The 32-year-old actor is the son of the Oscar winner and former model Rebecca Broussard. He’s currently promoting his horror film, Smile 2 , where that iconic face his dad makes is on display. Entertainment Tonight asked him about those strong family genes at the red carpet premiered on Tuesday, Oct. 15. “Well, our faces do look alike,” he noted. “You know, we’re related so…” It’s clear Ray adores his dad, who has been an inspiration to him his whole life — the young star is happy to follow in Jack’s large footsteps.

“I’ve always wanted to be an actor, you know? And this is the most amazing way to get into it,” he said charmingly. “To be able to work with [director and screenwriter] Parker [Finn], who is so talented and incredible. And to be able to support star Naomi [Scott], I’m just happy to be there and… my face is my face, and I want it in more things.” Now that the world is suddenly discovering Ray, we have a feeling there will be some major Hollywood opportunities coming his way.

Ray recently raved about his legendary dad to Deadline , describing him as his “inspiration.” He also shared his secret behind mastering that smile that made moviegoers scream in delight and terror in The Shining. “I ate dinner with him every night. I studied it , that’s how I learned to be a human being. So of course we’re gonna be kind of similar,” he explained. Ray also called himself the “luckiest kid in the world” to have Jack as his “hero.” How sweet is that?

Jack is now 87 years old, so he’s not in the public eye as much as he used to be. He was last spotted courtside, cheering on his favorite basketball team, the Los Angeles Lakers, on Friday, April 28, 2023, during a playoff game. The organization made sure to spotlight their biggest cheerleader by featuring his well-loved moment in The Shining : “Heeeeere’s Johnny!” It was a moment Lakers fans will never forget.

Before you go, click here to see all of the kids who look just like their A-list dads: