As debates over “nepo babies” and privilege remain a hot topic on social media, actress and television host Julia Barretto pushed back against the idea that success can be inherited, saying it should be earned through effort rather than flaunted online.
“Anak lang ako ni Marjorie Barretto. But I worked hard for what I have. Period. And I suggest you do the same,” said Julia during the launch of her first beauty collection, Bee Bee.
The term “nepo baby,” short for “nepotism baby,” has been widely used to describe children of celebrities or public figures whose careers are believed to be shaped by family influence.
The 28-year-old actress, daughter of Marjorie Barretto, stressed that her own achievements reflect dedication and resilience.
Once a Hollywood word, “nepo baby” has taken on a broader meaning in the Philippines, where it has fueled conversations about privilege, accountability, and authenticity among children of public figures, especially government officials. For her, who has long navigated the realities of being a second-generation celebrity, the best way to answer critics is through consistency and hard work.
That same philosophy, she said, guided her first business venture. Bee Bee, created in partnership with Viva Beauty Corporation, introduces a line of four tinted lip conditioners—Sweet Nectar, Beekeeper, Honey Drip, and Bee You. Each balm is infused with shea butter, ceramides, and tinting technology designed to adapt to natural lip tones.
“I wanted it to be easy, to be simple, and really give credit to my sisters. They really love lip balms. I became knowledgeable because of them. I learned of the shades and tints because of my sisters,” said Julia.
The Eat Bulaga host added that she was involved in every stage of development, from testing formulas to shaping the brand’s identity.
“Bee Bee is my love letter to every Filipina. It’s about owning your beauty and embracing who you are,” she explained.
Beyond business, the actress also opened up about her desire to pursue further studies, sharing that her mother and brother Leon’s recent graduations have inspired her to continue that dream.
“It’s inspiring. Now, I feel even more encouraged to continue pursuing that dream. I don’t think ever naman siya nawala. It’s always about the right time to do it and what I wanna take on,” Julia shared.
Even as she enters the beauty industry, the actress remains active in showbiz. She is set to reunite with Enrique Gil in the upcoming teleserye Hello, Heaven, more than a decade after their 2014 series Mirabella. The project will be directed by award-winning filmmaker Antoinette Jadaone, who also helmed her 2017 film Love You to the Stars and Back.
Balancing her new role as an entrepreneur with acting commitments, Julia admitted that rest has become her most valued luxury.
“Tulog talaga. Thankfully the past months I’ve been getting seven to eight hours of sleep. I really make it a point,” she stated.
