Xavier Trudeau, the 18-year-old son of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, is carving out a public persona distinct from his father's political career. Known as 'Xav,' he is pursuing a path as a pop and R&B artist and a model, recently participating in a provocative photoshoot for the Gen Z clothing brand Raimundo Langlois.
In images obtained by the Daily Mail, Xavier is shown with exposed abs and in a half-naked arm-wrestling pose with a fellow model, as well as posing with a cigar. He has also released music, including a song titled 'The Dive,' which features a man in a suit from behind, revealed to be his father. Xavier has expressed a desire to create his own identity, separate from his father's political standing.
"I want to be Xav, I don't want to be Justin Trudeau's son," he stated in a podcast interview. "I don't want to be doing all these cool things because of my dad: I want to be doing them for me." He hopes to achieve this by creating his own music and breaking into major fashion houses, listing Louis Vuitton and Vogue as aspirations.
Xavier's artistic endeavors have received public support from both his parents. His mother, Sophie Grégoire Trudeau, from whom Justin separated in 2023, has expressed pride in his bravery and creativity, albeit with playful maternal commentary on his fashion choices. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has also shown support, posing with his son at a music event and calling himself a "proud dad at soundcheck."
His girlfriend, Persian Italian influencer Pariya Carello, is also a vocal supporter, frequently posting praise for his performances and sharing photos of the couple. Carello also frequently shares images of herself in beach settings.
Xavier's upbringing was privileged, growing up in Ottawa with his father having served as Prime Minister for over a decade. His grandfather, Pierre Trudeau, also served as Prime Minister. Xavier attended high school in Ottawa and had indicated plans to enroll at McGill University, though his social media presence suggests a focus on his burgeoning career. He has acknowledged receiving online criticism due to his father's political role but views it as potentially beneficial for his music's algorithm.
His musical influences include his mother's taste for Celine Dion and his father's appreciation for rock bands like The Tragically Hip, which he credits with helping him appreciate diverse genres. His parents reportedly funded his early music lessons.