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Ava Phillippe Steps into the Spotlight with Acting Debut on “Doctor Odyssey”
Following in her mother’s footsteps, Ava Phillippe, the 25-year-old daughter of celebrated actress Reese Witherspoon, is embarking on her acting career with a guest appearance in Thursday’s episode of the popular medical drama, “Doctor Odyssey.” In a nod to Witherspoon’s iconic roles, Phillippe’s character features a distinctive connection to the acclaimed film “Legally Blonde.”
Homage to “Legally Blonde”
A preview clip released by ABC showcases Ava Phillippe sporting a recognizable two-string pink bikini. This wardrobe choice mirrors the memorable pink bikini worn by Witherspoon, 49, in the 2001 cinematic hit “Legally Blonde.” For fans of the beloved movie, the resemblance is immediately apparent, as Witherspoon donned a similar bikini for her character Elle Woods’ Harvard Law School application video.
Character Details and Episode Preview
In the sneak peek, Ava Phillippe, embodying her character Veronica, demonstrates a striking resemblance to her mother. Her brunette hair is styled in an elegant updo, complemented by a “V” initial necklace, a subtle detail linking to her character’s name. Directly addressing viewers, she enthusiastically promotes her debut:
“Hi y’all, it’s Ava Phillippe, playing Veronica on the spring break episode of Doctor Odyssey. Tune in!”
“Nepo Babies” Join the Cast
Star-Studded Guest Appearances
Ava Phillippe’s role in this special “Doctor Odyssey” episode positions her as one of three “vixens” vying for the attention of Dr. Max, played by Joshua Jackson. Adding to the celebrity lineage within the episode, the other two “vixen” roles are filled by Paris Jackson, daughter of the late Michael Jackson and Debbie Rowe, and Charlotte Lawrence, daughter of television producer Bill Lawrence and actress Christa Miller. This casting choice has drawn attention to the prevalence of “nepo babies” in Hollywood.
Family Background
Ava Phillippe is the daughter of Reese Witherspoon and actor Ryan Phillippe. Her parents, who famously met and fell in love during the filming of “Cruel Intentions,” married in 1999 while Witherspoon was pregnant with Ava. Although the couple later divorced in 2008, they also share a son, Deacon, aged 21. Witherspoon has another son, Tennessee Toth, 12, from her marriage to ex-husband Jim Toth.
Ava Phillippe’s Career Path
From Modeling to Acting
In a 2021 interview, Ava Phillippe expressed to E! News’ Daily Pop that acting was a potential avenue she was considering, even after pursuing modeling. “I don’t see it out of the question, certainly,” she stated, adding, “I’m not so sure on where I’m going yet.”
Phillippe credited her parents’ supportive approach to her career choices: “My parents have always encouraged me to choose the path that’s right for me and, you know, guide me along the way to make better choices than I might make. I’m so grateful for that.” She further elaborated on the significance of parental support in personal development: “That is such a privilege to have parents that support you in that way and to want you to be who you truly are meant to be. So I think I’m trying to do that.”
Reflections on Motherhood and Likeness
Reese Witherspoon on Raising Ava
Adding further context, Reese Witherspoon discussed her experiences as a young mother in a 2021 appearance on the “Armchair Expert” podcast. Speaking about raising Ava as a single parent initially, Witherspoon noted the challenges. “I did not have a lot of support with my first baby and I learned really early, like this is not going to work,” the “Morning Show” actress revealed. “I was lucky enough to have money saved and I didn’t have to work, but it’s just not a one-person job.”
Mother-Daughter Look-Alike Comments
Addressing public commentary on their striking resemblance, Witherspoon shared on “Today with Hoda and Jenna” in the following year that neither she nor Ava fully concur with the notion that they look identical. “It’s so funny! She and I don’t see it that much,” she admitted, downplaying the frequent comparisons.