Reese Witherspoon is undeniably one of the most successful women in Hollywood.
From acting in a myriad of iconic movies (Legally Blonde we’re looking at you), starring in some incredible TV shows (Big Little Lies anyone?), running a successful production agency AND juggling a monthly bookclub loved by fans worldwide, the Louisina-born actress really does it all.
And alongside her impressive career, the actress has been open about her relationship with ex-husband Ryan Phillippe, revealing how the pair maintain a healthy relationship to co-parent their children, Ava and Deacon.
Despite splitting in 2006, Reese has maintained a close relationship with ex-husband Ryan, with the pair reuniting to celebrate their son’s 18th birthday.
“We did a good job as co-parents,” explained Ryan during an interview with The Guardian in 2021.
“And I knew that we would even back when we were very young. We met at her 21st birthday party, and then she was with child, but – knowing how volatile Hollywood relationships can be – I knew that even if we didn’t make it, she would be a great person to raise kids with.
“I’ve never said a bad word about her or our past, and I never would. I respect and admire her, and we made some pretty great and beautiful kids.”
In April 2023, Ryan and Reese reunited to celebrate Deacon’s album release party, with photos showing Ryan, Reese, Deacon and big sister Ava joining in the festivities as Decan celebrated the release of his new album, A New Earth.
“Awesome night w family & friends celebrating the release of, ‘A New Earth’ by @deaconphillippe !!” Ryan captioned a series of images from the gathering.
In March 2023, Reese announced her split from her husband Jim Toth after 12 years of marriage. The couple shares a son, Tennessee.
“Our biggest priority is our son and our entire family as we navigate this next chapter,” part of her announcement read.
“They love Tennessee, and this is their focus,” a source shared with PEOPLE shortly after the couple announced their separation.
“The move from Los Angeles to Nashville was a big deal for him…They don’t want the divorce to affect him negatively. They will continue to co-parent amicably. There is no drama.”
Following their split, Reese spoke with Harper’s Bazaar in July 2023 about speculation over her divorce from Jim.
“It’s interesting what happened to me,” she told the publication. “When I was divorced before, the tabloid media got to tell people how I was feeling or how I was processing, and it felt very out of control.”
“To be able to talk to people directly about what’s going on in my life and just share it in the way that I share great professional experiences or personal experiences, it feels much more authentic to be able to say things in my own voice and not let somebody else control what’s happening.”
“Then, of course, there’s speculation, but I can’t control that,” she continued. “All I can do is be my most honest, forthright self and be vulnerable. It’s a vulnerable time for me.”
The actress also revealed what life has looked like in the months since news first broke of her split. “I don’t feel isolated at all,” she explained. “I feel very connected.”
Who are Reese Witherspoon’s children?
Ava Elizabeth Phillippe, 24
Ava, the eldest child of Reese and Ryan, was born on September 9, 1999.
Reese gave birth to Ava when she was 23 years old and has been open about her experience as a young mum.
“To be completely candid, I was terrified,” Reese recently shared on The Drew Barrymore Show. “I got pregnant when I was 22 years old, and I didn’t know how to balance work and motherhood, you just do it … I was just like every other mom and dad trying to figure it out.”
Now in her early twenties, Ava has a close relationship with her mother, and the pair often share pictures together on Instagram – where they are often praised for looking like twins.
“I’m so proud of her. She really rolls with it. I’m sure it’s not easy looking exactly like your mother,” Reese explained in an interview with InStyle.
Currently a student at UC Berkeley, Ava also dabbles in modelling – landing campaigns with Pat Magrath and Ivy Park.
Deacon Reese Phillippe, 20
The second child of Reese and Ryan, Deacon, was born on October 23, 2003.
Since graduating from high school in June 2022, Deacon is following in his parents’ footsteps and entering the entertainment industry.
In 2020, he worked as a music producer and released the song Long Run. He also made his acting debut in the third season of Never Have I Ever.
Despite being a busy college student at New York University, Deacon and Reese are still frequently spotted on mother-son outings, with the pair appearing together at the 2024 Golden Globes red carpet.
In October 2023, Deacon celebrated his milestone 20th birthday, with his proud parents sharing sweet Instagram tributes.
“HUGE Birthday wishes to my boy @deaconphillippe !! 🎂 🎈 ☀️,” Reese captioned a set of photos of her son. “Actually not a boy, he is a 20 yr old man today! 🥰 Deacon, you are such a ray of sunshine, love and positivity in this world. Keep shining that wonderful light on us all! I 💗you!”
“Happy birthday to my best friend,” Ryan captioned his own post. “I am so lucky to be your old man and so grateful for all the incredible memories and adventures we have together. You are a true blessing.”
In August 2024, Deacon set the internight alight when he was photographed going for a walk shirtless and looking a lot like his dad.
Deacon describes himself simply as “aspiring” on Instagram, where he has more than 450,000 followers.
In a 2022 interview with Entertainment Tonight, Ryan revealed how proud he was of his son.
“The acting thing he likes to do, and he will do according to what his appetite for it is, but his focus is primarily music,” he told the publication, adding “I’m super proud”.
Tennessee James Toth, 11
The only child of Reese and Jim, Tennesse was born on September 27, 2012.
Reese keeps her youngest son largely out of the spotlight apart from the rare birthday tribute.
