Matthew McConaughey is confronting questions about nepotism as his son Levi stars alongside him in the film The Lost Bus. During an interview on The Megyn Kelly Show, the actor discussed how he prepared Levi for the inevitable criticism linked to being a “nepo baby.” This conversation highlights McConaughey’s awareness of the challenges his son will face in the entertainment industry due to their family connection, emphasizing the importance of resilience and self-reliance.
Advice on Handling Criticism and Building Resilience
When asked by Megyn Kelly how he readied his son for potential backlash, McConaughey explained that criticism is unavoidable regardless of merit. He stated firmly that
“knives are going to come at you whether you deserve them or not.”
McConaughey pointed out that having a famous last name can bring unearned praise as well as unjustified criticism.
He expanded on this by saying,
“I said your last name is going to get you praise in places maybe you didn’t deserve it, it’s also going to get you slammed in places you don’t deserve it.”
McConaughey described the entertainment industry as a “rodeo,” advising that one must understand what matters most to them and be prepared for the hard knocks that come with the territory.
Continuing his advice, McConaughey told his son,
“So if you love doing the craft enough and you’re good at it, you put your head down and do that. The rest of it, you’ve got to have thick skin about — because it’s going to happen.”
This guidance reflects his focus on fostering a strong work ethic and emotional strength in Levi.
Levi McConaughey Earns His Role Through Audition
Before Levi secured the role in The Lost Bus, Matthew McConaughey had his son record a tape and sought feedback from the casting director. After reviewing Levi’s audition, the casting director showed it to the film’s director, Paul Greengrass.
However, Matthew requested that Levi’s last name be removed from the audition tape to avoid any bias. He recalled,
“I said, ‘Oh, okay, will you do me a favor? Would you pull his last name off? Because I just don’t want it preceding anyone’s opinion to help.’”
The casting director agreed, but once Greengrass saw Levi’s tape, he identified him and responded enthusiastically, saying, “That’s the kid.” When informed he was Matthew’s son, the director said, “Even better.” Levi ultimately earned the role based on his own talent and merit, which McConaughey proudly acknowledged.
Levi McConaughey Reflects on Living Up to Expectations
While promoting The Lost Bus, Levi spoke about the pressures of being Matthew McConaughey’s son. He recognizes that while his family name may open doors, it is his responsibility to prove himself once inside the industry. Levi said,
“Yeah, it’s just starting. And as much as people can say, ‘Oh, you got this because of your father or your mother,’ they can open the door, but then it’s going to be up to me to do my thing once I get in there. That’s on me.”
Film Release Details
The Lost Bus is currently playing in select theaters and is scheduled for its streaming premiere on Apple TV+ on October 3. The film provides a platform for Levi to demonstrate his abilities alongside an experienced cast, including his father, under the direction of Paul Greengrass.
Preparing for the Challenges of Fame and Legacy
Matthew McConaughey’s approach to raising Levi emphasizes grounding and strength, preparing him for the reality that fairness is not guaranteed in Hollywood. McConaughey remarked,
“Knives are going to come at you whether you deserve them or not, fair has nothing to do with this,”
underscoring the importance of mental toughness and a focused dedication to craft.
As Levi embarks on his acting career, the lessons from his father signal a serious awareness of the pressures tied to celebrity and familial legacy, while stressing that talent and perseverance remain essential to success.
“Knives are going to come at you whether you deserve them or not, fair has nothing to do with this…”@McConaughey on how he works to raise kids that aren't entitled and with a strong foundation.
Watch and download: https://t.co/F96HgI7HIW pic.twitter.com/EmNzIaAtxI
— The Megyn Kelly Show (@MegynKellyShow) September 24, 2025
