Courteney Cox Reflects on Parenting Regrets with Teenage Daughter Coco

Courteney Cox Wishes She Had Been a Firmer Parent With Her Daughter Coco

Coco Arquette and Courteney Cox attend the “Scream VI” premiere Jason Mendez/Getty Images

Courtney Cox is looking back on errors she made in the past with her daughter, Coco Arquette, whom she co-parents with ex-husband David Arquette.

In a recent interview on Minnie Driver's "Minnie Questions" podcast, Cox expressed her remorse for allowing Coco, who is now 19 years old, too much independence in making her own choices.

"I should have trusted myself and stepped in," shared Cox, 59. "I'm not saying I shaped who she is, but you do notice things in others—like always being caring and kind. With age, I've learned to set boundaries and say no."

Cox tied the knot with David, 52, in June 1999. Their daughter, Coco, was born in June 2004. Sadly, in October 2010, the couple announced their separation. David initiated the divorce process in June 2012, and it was finalized in May 2013.

For more than ten years, the actress from The Scream has been a single mother. She now reflects on her parenting journey and wishes she had been stricter with raising her daughter, Coco.

Courteney Cox Wishes She Had Been a Firmer Parent With Her Daughter Coco

Coco Arquette, Courteney Cox Arquette and David Arquette at the 2006 Annual “Platinum Circle Awards” Jeff Vespa/WireImage

Last year, the daughter of the Friends alum started college, and it was tough for Cox to see her only child move out.

"I miss her every moment," she shared with Marie Claire in October 2023. When Cox visited her daughter at school, she noticed that Coco had grown even more self-sufficient.

“I expected her to need [me] more than she does,” Cox added.

In February 2023, Cox was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and in her speech, she praised her daughter.

Cox expressed her love and pride for her daughter, telling her, "I just want you to know you shine your own unique light and I love you so much, and I’m so proud of you." As Coco watched, Cox added, "I’m proud to be your mom."

Following the ceremony, Cox couldn't contain her excitement about having Coco there to witness the special moment.

Seeing my beautiful daughter by my side meant everything to me. It was such a special moment to capture a picture together by the star. I cherish the memory and hope we can do it again in the future.

Cox is thrilled that Coco is pursuing an acting career, just like her. She is proud to see her daughter following in her footsteps.

“She’s done plays since she was in kindergarten, probably 33 musical theater plays,” Cox said during a March 2023 appearance on Live with Kelly and Ryan.

Editor's P/S:

Courteney Cox's reflections on her parenting journey offer valuable insights into the complexities of raising a child. While she acknowledges mistakes made in the past, she demonstrates growth and self-awareness by recognizing the importance of setting boundaries and fostering independence. Cox's experiences underscore the delicate balance between allowing children to learn and grow while providing guidance and support.

The article also highlights the strong bond between Cox and her daughter, Coco. Despite the challenges of single motherhood, Cox expresses immense pride and love for her daughter. Coco's pursuit of an acting career further solidifies their connection, as they share a common passion. Cox's journey as a mother serves as a reminder that parenting is an ongoing process, filled with both joys and challenges, and that it is never too late to learn and adjust one's approach.