Ryan Phillippe Details Bond With His, Reese Witherspoon’s Kids

As for his thoughts on Ava and Deacon entering the entertainment business? “It’s cool to have had so much experience, to see them entering a space that you’ve inhabited,” Ryan said, “and to be able to offer guidance.”

Ryan—who is also dad to Kai Knapp, 14, with ex Alexis Knapp—is also grateful that his kids aren’t big into social media, saying, “They kind of have more diverse interests, and that’s comforting because that can be a real detriment for a lot of young people.”

Besides, Ava and Deacon—who co-starred with Ryan in the series Motorheads—have had front row seats to Hollywood all their lives, growing up watching their parents navigate acting careers. 

“The fact that they grew up seeing the good and bad effects that it has had on Mom and Dad is important,” Ryan explained, “so they know that it’s not always easy or comfortable.”

And while Ryan has loved almost every stage of his kids growing up—joking, “The early teenage years—those were not my favorite”—he is truly appreciative of the relationship he has with them now that they’re adults.

“My son feels like my best friend,” Ryan said. “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.”

Plus, Ryan feels he and Deacon have “a lot of connective tissue” given that they aren’t as far apart in age as other father-son duos.

“We have these really in-depth conversations about world affairs,” he added, “and it’s really special to be able to have that.” 

For a look at more stars and their mini-me kids, keep reading.