Summary Points:
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Sam Nivola, son of actors Emily Mortimer and Alessandro Nivola, is emerging as one of the most exciting actors of his generation.
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His filmography already includes collaborations with directors like Noah Baumbach, Bradley Cooper, and William Oldroyd.
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He balances independent projects, prestige films, and acclaimed TV shows like The White Lotus and The Perfect Couple.
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Nivola has also ventured into writing, directing, and modeling, showing a multifaceted career path.
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At just 21 (in 2025), his movies and TV shows demonstrate both range and depth, with a bright future ahead.
Early Life: Growing Up in the Spotlight
Samuel John Nivola was born on September 26, 2003, in London, at the Portland Hospital. He holds dual UK and US citizenship and grew up surrounded by a mix of cultural and creative influences. His father, Alessandro Nivola, is known for roles in American Hustle (2013) and The Many Saints of Newark (2021), while his mother, Emily Mortimer, starred in Notting Hill (1999) and HBO’s The Newsroom (2012–2014). His maternal grandfather was the celebrated British dramatist Sir John Mortimer, giving Sam a rich artistic heritage.
Sam was raised first in London’s Notting Hill and later in Brooklyn, New York, attending Saint Ann’s School before enrolling at Columbia University. Alongside his younger sister May Nivola (born 2010), who is also an actress, he grew up in an environment where creativity and storytelling were second nature.
While some critics might label him a “nepo baby,” Sam has repeatedly emphasized that his career choices are self-driven. Rather than rushing into stardom, he built his filmography gradually, opting for roles that challenged him and proved his talent beyond family connections.
Breaking Down Sam Nivola’s Movies: From Indie Gems to Prestige Projects
When it comes to Sam Nivola movies, his career so far reflects a thoughtful mix of experimental projects, big-name collaborations, and emotionally rich performances.
River of Fundament (2014) – Kidsroom Ensemble
At just 11 years old, Sam made his screen debut in Matthew Barney’s experimental six-hour opus. Although his role was minor, it introduced him to the world of avant-garde cinema—a rare starting point that foreshadowed his unconventional choices.
Neighborhood Watch (2021) – Writer, Director, and Star (With/In Anthology)
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Sam wrote, directed, and starred in his own short film for the anthology With/In. Shot on smartphones, it explored themes of isolation and community. This was not only a performance milestone but also a display of his behind-the-camera ambition.
White Noise (2022) – Heinrich
Directed by Noah Baumbach and adapted from Don DeLillo’s novel, this Netflix release marked Sam’s breakthrough role. Playing Heinrich, the sardonic teenage son opposite Adam Driver and Greta Gerwig, he delivered a deadpan yet emotionally layered performance. Sharing screen time with his sister May added authenticity, and critics praised his sharp delivery.
Eileen (2023) – Lee Polk
Based on Ottessa Moshfegh’s acclaimed novel, this psychological thriller cast Sam as Lee Polk, a young man caught in a dark, complex family narrative. Premiering at Sundance, his performance earned recognition for its quiet intensity, showcasing his ability to handle nuanced supporting roles.
Maestro (2023) – Alexander Bernstein
In Bradley Cooper’s Oscar-nominated biopic of composer Leonard Bernstein, Sam played Alexander Bernstein, the composer’s son. Acting alongside Cooper and Carey Mulligan, his role balanced warmth with the emotional challenges of growing up in a complicated family. This role solidified his reputation as a serious actor capable of excelling in period dramas.
Driver’s Ed (2025) – TBA
Currently in production under director Bobby Farrelly, this upcoming comedy will give Sam a chance to flex his comedic timing—a shift from his dramatic roles. Anticipation is high, as fans are eager to see how he transitions into lighter fare.
Sam Nivola’s TV Shows: Building a Mainstream Audience
While his films have earned critical acclaim, Sam’s television work has helped him connect with a wider audience. His TV credits are a blend of comedy, period drama, and prestige anthologies.
Doll & Em (2013) – Ariel
His earliest TV role came at age 10, appearing in an episode of this HBO/Sky Atlantic comedy created by his mother Emily Mortimer. It was a playful, low-stakes introduction to the industry.
The Pursuit of Love (2021) – Matt
In this BBC miniseries adapted by Emily Mortimer, Sam appeared alongside his sister May in a period piece starring Lily James and Andrew Scott. The project gave him valuable experience in period storytelling.
The Perfect Couple (2024) – Will Winbury
This Netflix hit marked Sam’s first major TV breakthrough. Playing the groom in a wedding-turned-murder-mystery, he acted opposite Nicole Kidman and Liev Schreiber. His portrayal of privilege mixed with vulnerability resonated with audiences, sparking online fan discussions.
The White Lotus (2025) – Lochlan Ratliff
HBO’s award-winning anthology series gave Sam his biggest TV role yet. Cast as Lochlan Ratliff, a younger sibling entangled in the show’s signature web of wealth, secrets, and satire, Sam held his own alongside heavyweights while filming in Thailand. Critics described it as his “most dynamic performance to date,” combining vulnerability with sharp edge.
Beyond Movies and TV: Modeling, Personal Life, and Future Plans
Sam’s talents extend beyond acting. In 2023, he modeled for Miu Miu at Paris Fashion Week, blending film and fashion.
On the personal side, he has been dating Iris Apatow (daughter of Judd Apatow and Leslie Mann) since 2024. The couple reportedly shares a New York apartment—and even a cat named Kumo. Their relationship has drawn media attention, but Sam has kept a relatively grounded public persona.
Looking forward, Sam has expressed interest in directing and writing, suggesting a future that spans both sides of the camera. With Driver’s Ed on the way and more roles likely lined up, he appears to be steadily moving from rising star to leading man territory.
Why Sam Nivola Matters
In an era where Hollywood is packed with second-generation actors, Sam Nivola movies and TV shows stand out not just because of his lineage but because of his genuine craft.
He brings intelligence, emotional depth, and versatility to every role—whether he’s playing a troubled teen in White Noise, a complex son in Maestro, or a sharp-witted guest in The White Lotus. His career trajectory proves that he is not content with simply inheriting fame; he is building his own legacy.
At just 21, Sam has already worked with A-list directors, acted in award-winning series, and shown promise as a writer-director. If this is just the beginning, the next decade could see him become one of the defining actors of his generation.
FAQs about Sam Nivola Movies and TV Shows
1. Who are Sam Nivola’s parents?
His parents are actors Emily Mortimer and Alessandro Nivola.
2. What was Sam Nivola’s first movie?
His first film appearance was in River of Fundament (2014) as part of the Kidsroom Ensemble.
3. What role made him famous?
His breakout role was as Heinrich in White Noise (2022), directed by Noah Baumbach.
4. Has he acted with his sister May Nivola?
Yes, they both appeared in White Noise (2022) and The Pursuit of Love (2021).
5. What are Sam Nivola’s most popular TV shows?
His most popular shows include The Perfect Couple (Netflix, 2024) and The White Lotus (HBO, 2025).
6. Does Sam Nivola only do serious roles?
No—while he’s known for dramas, he is set to star in the upcoming comedy Driver’s Ed (2025).
7. Is Sam Nivola also a director?
Yes, he directed and starred in Neighborhood Watch (2021) as part of the With/In anthology.
8. Where can I watch his work?
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White Noise – Netflix
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Maestro – Netflix
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The Perfect Couple – Netflix
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The White Lotus – HBO
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Eileen – Various streaming after Sundance release
9. Does Sam Nivola do modeling?
Yes, he modeled for Miu Miu in Paris in 2023.
10. What’s next for him?
Sam will star in Driver’s Ed (2025) and is expected to expand into directing and writing in the near future.
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