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Gracie Abrams has acknowledged the “nepo baby” label as she moves into a new creative phase — and part of that shift includes a song she co-wrote with actor Paul Mescal. The collaboration appears on her forthcoming album, which the singer says is among her most personal work to date.
A song written together
The track, titled Imaginary Friend, was co-written by Abrams and Mescal for her upcoming record, Daughter From Hell. Abrams, 26, told the New York Times’ Popcast that the session felt natural rather than momentous.
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She described the experience as enjoyable and straightforward, and said it made sense to work with Mescal in a household full of creative people. For her, the artistic exchange was its own reward, even if it draws attention to her private life.
Balancing privacy and public scrutiny
Abrams acknowledged that collaborating with her partner will increase public focus on their relationship, something she has generally tried to keep separate from her music. She said she dislikes feeling like she must hide, but still places a premium on privacy when it matters.
She also expects some online criticism. Yet Abrams suggested the lessons and satisfaction of making the song outweigh the possibility of trolling.
On the “nepo baby” conversation
Never far from discussion is Abrams’ family background. Her father is director J.J. Abrams and her mother is producer Katie McGrath — both prominent figures in the entertainment industry. She accepts why the label follows her, and has cautioned that commentary around the topic can become harsh quickly.
Despite that, Abrams tries to keep attention on the work itself and the collaborators around her, not on her surname.
What comes next
Daughter From Hell is due in July. Based on what Abrams has shared, the record promises to explore personal territory and reflects collaborations formed in a private, creative environment.
