When Ryan Phillippe and Reese Witherspoon met at her 21st birthday party in March 1997, it marked the beginning of a romance that would soon become one of Hollywood’s most talked-about relationships. Reese jokingly told Ryan, “I think you’re my birthday present,” a line she later admitted was embarrassing but memorable. Their chemistry was undeniable, and it wasn’t long before they began dating. By December 1998, they were engaged, setting the stage for a future together both off-screen and on-screen. In this article, we will explore everything about Ryan Phillippe wife, from their early romance to their life after divorce.
Their first big screen moment came in the hit film Cruel Intentions (1999), which showcased not only their acting talents but also their undeniable on-screen chemistry. Their growing celebrity status quickly made them darlings of both the press and fans. The pair seemed to have it all: youth, fame, love, and a blossoming future.
Quick Bio:
| Name | Reese Witherspoon |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Laura Jeanne Reese Witherspoon |
| Date of Birth | March 22, 1976 |
| Age (2025) | 49 years old |
| Birthplace | New Orleans, Louisiana, USA |
| Height | ~5 feet 1 inch (1.56 m) |
| Spouse (ex) | Ryan Phillippe (1999–2008) |
| Children | Ava, Deacon, Tennessee |
| Net Worth | ~$400 million |
| Occupation | Actress, Producer, Entrepreneur |
| Notable Works | Legally Blonde, Walk the Line |
| Social Media | @reesewitherspoon (Instagram) |
| Current Residence | Los Angeles, California |
The Wedding That Made Headlines
On June 5, 1999, Ryan and Ryan Phillippe wife tied the knot at the Old Wide Awake Plantation in South Carolina. Reese was 23 and Ryan was 24. Just weeks earlier, Cruel Intentions had premiered, and the couple was at the center of Hollywood’s spotlight. Their wedding was described as intimate and elegant, far from the extravagant affairs often expected from A-list celebrities. Family and close friends attended the romantic Southern celebration, and media coverage was massive.
Though still in the early stages of their careers, both were already gaining respect in the industry. The marriage helped solidify their image as one of Hollywood’s young power couples. Many fans hoped the couple would last forever, and the two often spoke affectionately of each other in interviews, fueling public fascination.
Family Life and Children
The couple welcomed their first child, Ava Elizabeth Phillippe, on September 9, 1999. Reese was only 23 and found herself juggling motherhood with a burgeoning film career. She later admitted how terrifying yet rewarding it was. Ava’s birth came at a pivotal time in Reese’s career, with her popularity rapidly growing due to films like Election and later Legally Blonde.
In October 2003, their son Deacon Reese Phillippe was born. Despite their busy schedules, the couple was frequently seen together at public events and appeared to be a strong family unit. They tried to prioritize their family life, often bringing their children to film sets and press tours. By all public appearances, Reese and Ryan appeared happy, committed, and deeply involved parents.
Challenges Behind the Scenes
Despite their seemingly ideal public life, the couple faced private struggles. Ryan and Reese both admitted to undergoing couples therapy. Reese told People magazine that they were “normal people with normal problems.” The pressure of balancing two demanding careers while raising young children began to take its toll.
Rumors of tension in the marriage started circulating in the mid-2000s. With Reese’s fame continuing to rise—culminating in her Academy Award win for Walk the Line in 2006—many speculated that their career imbalance was a source of friction. Meanwhile, Ryan struggled with public scrutiny and the challenges of being known more as Reese’s husband than for his own acting accomplishments.
The Separation and Divorce
In October 2006, the couple announced their separation after seven years of marriage. Reese filed for divorce the following month, citing irreconcilable differences. The split shocked fans and saddened many who saw them as a rare example of Hollywood marital success.
The divorce was finalized in June 2008. Reese requested sole physical custody and joint legal custody of their two children. Ryan, for his part, requested joint custody and did not seek spousal support. The proceedings were relatively quiet and respectful, with both parties working to protect their children’s well-being.
In later interviews, both Reese and Ryan reflected on their marriage, often saying they had simply been too young and unprepared for the pressures that came with fame and family life. Ryan described the divorce as the darkest period of his life.
Life After Divorce – Co-Parenting and Growth
Reese and Ryan have since become known for their effective co-parenting. They frequently support their children at major milestones and events. From Deacon’s album launch to Ava’s college journey, both parents have remained involved and united. Their ability to maintain a respectful relationship post-divorce has often been cited as a model for other celebrity co-parents.
Even after the divorce, they have often posted tributes to each other or to their shared parenting journey on social media. Ryan has expressed admiration for Reese’s accomplishments, and Reese has never publicly spoken ill of Ryan. Their united front is rare in celebrity culture and admired by many fans.
Reese Witherspoon Today – A Quick Look
After her divorce, Reese married talent agent Jim Toth in 2011, with whom she has a son named Tennessee. That marriage ended in 2023. Professionally, Reese has soared. She won an Oscar for Walk the Line, launched production companies like Hello Sunshine and Pacific Standard, and became one of Hollywood’s most influential women. Her net worth is estimated at around $400 million.
Ryan Phillippe wife is also a fashion and lifestyle icon, having launched her own clothing brand, Draper James. She continues to star in and produce successful projects like Big Little Lies, The Morning Show, and more. On social media, she shares snippets of her daily life, her work, and her role as a mother.
Ryan Phillippe in the Present Day
Ryan, born on September 10, 1974, continues to act in film and television. He also directed and took on behind-the-camera roles. His net worth is estimated to be around $30 million. He shares a third child, Kai, with actress Alexis Knapp. Despite his lower public profile compared to Reese, he remains a dedicated father and continues to work in the entertainment industry.
Over the years, Ryan has taken on diverse roles in both film and television, including action films and indie dramas. While he may not dominate headlines like his ex-wife, he maintains a steady career and is often praised for his roles in more grounded, character-driven stories.
Conclusion – A Relationship That Shaped Two Lives
Ryan Phillippe and Reese Witherspoon’s marriage, though short-lived, left a lasting impact on both of their lives. It was a union that began in youthful exuberance and ended in mature co-parenting. Their story is one of love, challenges, personal growth, and enduring family ties. While they moved on from each other romantically, their shared past continues to unite them through their children and mutual respect.
They have both grown in different directions, shaped by their experiences together. Their legacy isn’t defined by a failed marriage but rather by their strength, grace, and commitment to their children. In the world of Hollywood breakups, their journey remains one of the more respectful and admirable stories told.
FAQs:
Who was Ryan Phillippe wife?
Ryan Phillippe was married to actress Reese Witherspoon. They tied the knot in 1999 and divorced in 2008 after nearly a decade together.
How many children do Ryan and Reese have?
They share two children—Ava Elizabeth Phillippe and Deacon Reese Phillippe. Both parents remain active and supportive in their lives.
Why did Ryan Phillippe and Ryan Phillippe wife divorce?
The couple cited irreconcilable differences. Both have admitted they were very young when they married and struggled with the pressures of fame and family.
Are Reese and Ryan still in touch?
Yes, they co-parent their children and often appear together at family events. Their respectful relationship is admired by many.
Did Ryan Phillippe remarry after Reese?
No, Ryan hasn’t remarried since his divorce from Reese Witherspoon. He had other relationships, including one with actress Alexis Knapp, with whom he shares a daughter.
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