Why Nikki Reed Won't Return to Acting: Balancing Business and Family

Nikki Reed opened up about her lack of interest in returning to acting after focusing on her businesses outside of Hollywood.

In an exclusive interview with We on Tuesday, May 28, the 36-year-old actress shared that she feels creatively satisfied with the art she is currently creating.

Reed mentioned that she sees herself more as an artist in her various roles and projects, rather than solely as an actress.

Reed decided to take a break from acting in 2019 after being in the industry for over 15 years. During her time away from the spotlight, she has been keeping herself occupied by managing her jewelry company, Bayou With Love, and also overseeing The Absorption Company, a supplement brand she co-owns with her husband Ian Somerhalder, that was introduced in January.

Nikki Reed Doesn’t Feel a ‘Pull’ to Return to Acting — But Is the ‘Door Closed’ for Good?

Nikki Reed shared that she feels she doesn't have room to take on anything else besides being a full-time mom and working on her family's farm. She explained that her plate is already full with her current responsibilities, but she is open to new opportunities in the future.

The actress mentioned that even though she is content with her current situation, she still feels a strong pull towards the creative industry. Reed emphasized that she would need the perfect project to motivate her to return to acting.

She shared, "I believe that project would likely involve me revisiting my roots in writing and where I began in this industry, which was with 13." Reed was referring to the 2003 film that she co-wrote and acted in with Evan Rachel Wood.

Reed dreams of acting in projects that are deeply personal and meaningful to her. She believes that working on such projects is what would draw her back to the acting world.

Aside from acting, Reed is also busy juggling multiple responsibilities, and she is happy to do so. She expressed her love for her businesses, Bayou with Love and the Absorption Company, and shared her hopes of expanding and developing these ventures with Somerhalder for a long time.

Nikki Reed Doesn’t Feel a ‘Pull’ to Return to Acting — But Is the ‘Door Closed’ for Good?

Nikki Reed Courtesy of Babyganics

Reed is happy with her current career but she can't choose a favorite project. She is most passionate about creating spaces, companies, and conversations focused on making the world a better place.

She believes that making the world a better place can be achieved through business and how we engage with the world and raise our children. Reed's biggest passion lies in the intersection of these areas.

Her partnership with Babyganics in their “Oops! I Forgot It Again” campaign was driven by her desire to make the world a better place. The brand is hosting pop-ups in New York and Los Angeles from Friday, May 31, to Sunday, June 2, to assist parents in getting what they forgot at home for free. Participants can also enjoy outdoor activities and connect with nature during the event.

Reed shared that the campaign resonated with her because it encourages children to spend time outdoors while appreciating the imperfect moments that come with parenthood.

Nikki Reed Doesn’t Feel a ‘Pull’ to Return to Acting — But Is the ‘Door Closed’ for Good?

Courtesy of Babyganics

She mentioned that the stands will provide some help to parents who may forget items like a sun hat or sunscreen, without any cost.

Reed also pointed out that parents can donate items they have extra of, which can be very useful. She mentioned that her household mainly consists of hand-me-downs, and they are constantly swapping items within their community. She found this practice sweet and practical because most of the time, when you leave the house, there will always be something you forget.

For more information on Babyganics’ products and their pop-ups, check out their website.

With reporting by Christina Garibaldi

Editor's P/S:

Nikki Reed's decision to prioritize her businesses over acting highlights the evolving priorities of modern-day celebrities. While acting remains a lucrative and glamorous career, Reed's departure from the spotlight demonstrates a growing trend among celebrities who seek fulfillment and purpose beyond the entertainment industry. Her focus on family, entrepreneurship, and social impact aligns with the values of many millennials and Gen Z consumers, who increasingly value work-life balance, sustainability, and purpose-driven careers.

Reed's openness to returning to acting only for personally meaningful projects suggests that she is not driven solely by financial or fame-seeking motives. Her desire for creative fulfillment and impact echoes the sentiments of many artists who seek to use their talents to make a positive difference in the world. By embracing her diverse interests and passions, Reed serves as an inspiration for individuals who aspire to live a multifaceted and fulfilling life.