In the world of film and entertainment, few family names carry as much weight as Chaplin. The legacy of Charlie Chaplin, one of the greatest filmmakers and actors of the 20th century, is indelibly etched into the history of cinema. His comedic genius, poignant storytelling, and social commentary have left a profound influence on global culture.
Yet, for Kiera Chaplin, his granddaughter, the Chaplin name is both a blessing and a responsibility—a legacy that she honours while simultaneously forging her own unique path as a businesswoman, philanthropist, and creative force.
In a recent interview on the Hotel Talk podcast with Farah Shammas, Kiera Chaplin shared insights into her journey. From growing up with one of the most famous surnames in the world to establishing herself as a model, businesswoman, and passionate advocate for women’s rights. The conversation offers a fascinating look at how Kiera balances the weight of her family legacy while creating an identity and career all her own.
A Journey into Modelling and Entertainment
Born in Belfast, Ireland, to a family steeped in cinematic history, Kiera Chaplin could easily have chosen to embrace her legacy by remaining in the shadow of her famous grandfather. However, from an early age, she exhibited a desire to distinguish herself on her own merits. Growing up in Switzerland, where Charlie Chaplin spent his final years, she developed a fascination with the worlds of fashion and entertainment. At just 16, she left the comforts of Switzerland to pursue a modelling career in Paris, an industry renowned for its competitive and often unforgiving nature. It was here that Kiera would take her first steps toward building an independent career.
In the mid-1990s, supermodels like Naomi Campbell, Claudia Schiffer, and Kate Moss dominated the fashion world, transforming it into a realm of glamour and global fascination. For a young Kiera Chaplin, this era of ‘supermodel’ culture was alluring, and she soon found herself at the centre of it. Her striking features and grace quickly caught the attention of industry professionals, leading to collaborations with some of the most prestigious names in fashion. She recounts her early days of endless castings in Paris, where success often felt elusive amidst the competition. However, her big break came when she was cast by the renowned photographer Mario Testino for Vogue—a turning point that confirmed her status as a model to watch.
Despite these early successes, Kiera faced the inevitable comparisons that came with her famous surname. In her interview on Hotel Talk, she admits to initially doubting whether her achievements were earned solely on merit or if her family name played a role. A pivotal moment during the Vogue shoot dispelled those doubts when she learned that Testino did not know her Chaplin lineage when casting her. This realisation marked a turning point in her confidence, reinforcing that she was chosen for her talent rather than her ancestry.
Yet, Kiera’s ambitions stretched far beyond the catwalk. Over time, she transitioned into acting and production, exploring different facets of the entertainment industry. However, acting proved to be less fulfilling for her. She found the structured nature of the profession—taking direction from others—too restrictive for her creative personality. It was a clear signal that her true strengths lay in entrepreneurship and creative control, leading her to focus more on building brands and pursuing philanthropic efforts.
Embracing Philanthropy: A Fight for Women’s Rights
Kiera’s evolution into philanthropy is where her impact has perhaps been most profound. A passionate advocate for women’s rights and empowerment, Kiera’s humanitarian work has been centred on combating female genital mutilation (FGM) through her involvement with the Desert Flower Foundation. Founded by Somali-born model Waris Dirie, the foundation is dedicated to raising awareness and preventing FGM—a practice that continues to affect millions of young girls globally, particularly in Africa.
Kiera’s commitment to the cause was sparked after hearing Dirie speak at a conference, where she shared her harrowing story of escaping FGM and child marriage in Somalia. Inspired by Dirie’s courage and the urgency of the issue, Kiera joined the foundation and helped open schools in Sierra Leone. These schools provide vital education to young girls, offering them an alternative future where they are not subjected to early marriage or FGM.
Kiera’s passion for the cause is clear: “The only sustainable way to combat this is through education,” she explained in the Hotel Talk podcast. By providing schooling, the foundation not only equips young girls with essential skills but also teaches them about their rights and bodily autonomy. Additionally, the foundation provides financial support to families who agree not to subject their daughters to FGM, helping to break the cycle of poverty and tradition that perpetuates the practice.
Her efforts have made a tangible difference in communities where FGM is still prevalent, and she considers the opening of a school in Sierra Leone one of her proudest achievements. “It doesn’t cost much, but it makes an enormous difference to these children and their future,” she remarked during her conversation with Farah Shammas. Her work highlights the importance of education as a tool for social change and empowerment, especially in regions where gender inequality is deeply ingrained.
Building Brands and Expanding Horizons
Kiera Chaplin’s entrepreneurial spirit has led her to explore ventures that align with her passion for creativity and innovation. Today, she is involved in several business projects, including her beauty brand, Bufarma, which focuses on natural products made from buffalo milk. Launched in 2024, Bufarma aims to offer consumers a luxurious yet environmentally sustainable skincare solution. Kiera’s involvement in the development of the brand reflects her broader interest in business and her desire to lead projects that combine creativity with commercial success.
In addition to Bufarma, Kiera has co-founded an alcohol brand, Generation, which will launch in Munich in September 2024. The brand features Irish single malt whiskey, an homage to her Irish heritage, as well as a premium apéritif. Kiera’s venture into the alcohol industry represents another example of her business acumen and ability to tap into market trends while remaining true to her personal values and identity.
Furthermore, Kiera is the driving force behind the Chaplin Awards in Asia, which celebrate lifetime achievements in film. This initiative reflects her ongoing commitment to honouring her family’s cinematic legacy while fostering new talent in the entertainment industry. By combining her business ventures with her philanthropic work, Kiera continues to build a multifaceted career that both upholds her family’s legacy and forges new ground.
Balancing Legacy and Individuality
Kiera Chaplin’s story, as shared on Hotel Talk, is one of balancing the weight of a famous surname with the desire to create an independent identity. Throughout her career, she has navigated the complexities of living in the shadow of a global icon, acknowledging the privilege it affords while simultaneously striving to be recognised for her achievements. Her journey from a young model in Paris to a businesswoman and philanthropist demonstrates resilience, adaptability, and a deep commitment to making a positive impact.
As Kiera continues to expand her ventures, she remains a shining example of how legacy can serve as both inspiration and a platform for individual growth. Her advocacy for women’s rights, entrepreneurial success, and creative ventures all highlight her determination to make her mark on the world, not as “Charlie Chaplin’s granddaughter,” but as Kiera Chaplin—a woman of vision, compassion, and ambition.
In a world that often seeks to define individuals by their lineage, Kiera Chaplin has proven that true success lies in forging one’s path while embracing the values of the past. As she continues to champion education, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy, her influence is set to inspire future generations—not just in the entertainment industry, but across sectors where innovation and social impact intersect.
