Reese Witherspoon may be one of Hollywood’s most successful actresses, but her most cherished role is being a mother. The Oscar winner is mom to three children: Ava and Deacon Phillippe, whom she shares with ex-husband Ryan Phillippe, and Tennessee James Toth, her son with ex-husband Jim Toth. Balancing motherhood with a demanding career hasn’t always been easy, but Witherspoon says the sacrifices are worth it. “Being a mom is really great, it’s a big part of my life. I would say it’s the biggest part of my life,” she shared on The Drew Barrymore Show.
Ava Elizabeth Phillippe, 26
Born in September 1999, Ava is Witherspoon’s first child. Reese was just 23 when she became a mom, and she has often spoken about the challenges of raising a baby while building her career. Ava grew up in the spotlight, even visiting the Friends set as a baby when her mom guest-starred. Now 26, Ava is known for her striking resemblance to her mother. She has pursued modeling, working with brands like Pat McGrath, Beyoncé’s Ivy Park, and Draper James. A UC Berkeley graduate, Ava also shares her mom’s love of fashion and beauty.
Deacon Reese Phillippe, 22
Deacon was born in October 2003 and has followed his parents into the entertainment industry. He debuted as a music producer in 2020 with his single “Long Run,” and later released his album A New Earth in 2023. Deacon has also tried acting, appearing in Netflix’s Never Have I Ever. Currently attending New York University, he continues to balance college life with his creative pursuits. Reese has expressed pride in watching her son grow into adulthood, calling her relationship with her kids “rewarding.”
Tennessee James Toth, 13
Witherspoon welcomed her youngest child, Tennessee, in September 2012. Though she keeps him largely out of the spotlight, she occasionally shares glimpses of his life on social media. Tennessee joined the family at the premiere of Sing 2 in 2021 and even made a cameo in Reese’s 2025 film You’re Cordially Invited. Following her divorce from Jim Toth in 2023, Reese emphasized that co-parenting Tennessee remains her top priority.
Family First
Despite her busy schedule, Witherspoon has always prioritized her children. She frequently posts about family milestones, from birthdays to holiday celebrations. “My kids are my first, most important priority,” she told InStyle. As Ava, Deacon, and Tennessee continue to grow, Reese Witherspoon remains devoted to guiding them while celebrating their individuality. For her, motherhood is not just a role—it’s the heart of her life.
