Ryan Phillippe Shares Insight Into Bond With Kids

The actor opens up about his close relationships with Ava, Deacon, and Kai.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Ryan Phillippe, known for his roles in films like Cruel Intentions, exclusively shared with E! News how he navigates life as a dad and offers guidance to his children - daughter Ava, 26, son Deacon, 22, and daughter Kai, 14 - who he co-parents with ex-wife Reese Witherspoon. Phillippe expressed gratitude for the close relationships he has with his kids, noting their strong sense of self, academic drive, and thoughtful decision-making.

Why it matters

Phillippe's candid comments provide a rare glimpse into the actor's personal life and the challenges and joys of co-parenting in the public eye. His insights on supporting his children's interests, including their potential forays into the entertainment industry, offer relatable advice for other parents.

The details

Phillippe, 51, said he and Witherspoon, 49, are comfortable being "sounding boards" for their kids, offering guidance and advice as Ava and Deacon embark on careers of their own. He expressed pride in their intelligence and conscientious nature, saying, "It's nice to offer your experience to them and to let them know what you've been through and to guide them that way." Phillippe also noted that his kids, unlike many young people, are not overly invested in social media, which he finds "comforting."

  • Phillippe's movie One Mile, one story told in two films, is set to release on digital on February 20, 2026.

The players

Ryan Phillippe

An American actor known for his roles in films like Cruel Intentions and the upcoming One Mile.

Reese Witherspoon

An American actress and producer, and Phillippe's ex-wife, with whom he co-parents their children.

Ava Phillippe

Phillippe and Witherspoon's 26-year-old daughter.

Deacon Phillippe

Phillippe and Witherspoon's 22-year-old son.

Kai Knapp

Phillippe's 14-year-old daughter with ex Alexis Knapp.

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What they’re saying

“My ex-wife and I are blessed with kids who have [an] incredible sense of self, and also are incredibly conscientious and very academically driven—intelligent. So, they make really good choices.”

— Ryan Phillippe (E! News)

“It's nice to offer your experience to them, and to let them know what you've been through and to guide them that way.”

— Ryan Phillippe (E! News)

“My son feels like my best friend. Yes, I'm still a father and he regards me as such, but we also have so many similar interests in music and comedy, and we share all of those things.”

— Ryan Phillippe (E! News)

What’s next

Phillippe's upcoming film One Mile, one story told in two films, is set to release on digital on February 20, 2026.

The takeaway

Phillippe's candid insights into his close relationships with his children, including the special bond he shares with his son Deacon, offer a relatable and inspiring perspective on the joys and challenges of co-parenting in the public eye. His emphasis on guiding his kids while respecting their independence and diverse interests highlights the importance of maintaining strong family ties, even as children grow into adulthood.