Ryan Phillippe Opens Up About Dealing with Industry Criticism and Family Dynamics

Ryan Phillippe Is Annoyed By Nepotism Talk in the Industry

Tibrina Hobson/Getty Images

Ryan Phillippe doesn't agree with critics who target "nepo babies," especially when children want to pursue the same career as their famous parents.

In an interview with Extra published on Tuesday, March 19, Phillippe, 49, expressed his frustration with the nepotism talk in the industry. He believes that many people naturally end up following in their parents' footsteps to some extent.

Phillippe mentioned that he feels hurt whenever nepotism is discussed, especially because his children are keen on pursuing a career in the entertainment industry.

He added, "They have been exposed to this environment since they were young. This familiarity helps them deal with the challenges of this industry." "You need to be resilient. There's a lot of criticism and negativity that you may face. It's not always glamorous."

Phillippe is a father of three. He shares daughter Ava, 24, and son Deacon, 20, with ex-wife Reese Witherspoon in addition to daughter Kai, 12, with actress Alexis Knapp. The actor admitted that his and Witherspoon’s children spent a lot of time with them while they were at work.

“These kids have grown up watching on set with Reese or with me,” he said. “It seems natural, I think.”

Ava and Deacon have chosen to follow their dreams in Hollywood. Ava is dedicating her time to modeling after college, while Deacon, currently studying at New York University, has been making his mark with his original music. His first album, A New Earth, was released in April 2023, and his proud parents and older sister were there to support him at the album release party.

Ryan Phillippe Is Annoyed By Nepotism Talk in the Industry

As Deacon Reese Phillippe continues to achieve success in his career, his father, Ryan Phillippe, proudly praises his son. Ryan hinted that besides music, there is a possibility that he and Deacon might collaborate on a television show in the future.

I am so proud of the young man my son has become. He brings light and love to the world with his solid and spiritual nature, and his incredible work ethic. It fills my heart with joy to see him grow every day.

Recently, Deacon captured attention when he showed his stylish apartment to TikToker Caleb Simpson.

The caption on Instagram in November 2023 stated, "Location: West Village. Occupation: Student ‍."

The clip went viral, but it did not mention Deacon's parents. Despite this, he was labeled as a nepo baby by some.

Editor's P/S:

Ryan Phillippe's defense of "nepo babies" sparked a debate on the role of nepotism in the entertainment industry. While some argue that children of celebrities have unfair advantages, Phillippe believes that it's natural for them to follow in their parents' footsteps. He cites his own children's passion for entertainment and their exposure to the industry as justification.

The article highlights the complexities of nepotism in Hollywood. Phillippe's children, Ava and Deacon, have chosen different paths within the entertainment industry, with Ava pursuing modeling and Deacon focusing on music. Their success raises questions about the extent to which their famous parents have influenced their careers. Phillippe's comments and his children's achievements underscore the need for a balanced perspective on nepotism, acknowledging both the potential benefits and the importance of evaluating talent on its own merits.