The Daily 'The Interview': How Reese Witherspoon Figured Out Who She Really Is
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Sep 20, 2025 
Reese Witherspoon, an Academy Award-winning actor and producer, dives into her journey through Hollywood. She shares insights from co-writing a thriller with Harlan Coben and discusses the importance of gender balance in leadership. Reflecting on her early acting years, Reese opens up about overcoming personal struggles, including escaping an abusive relationship. She also talks about the role of motherhood and the support from friends like Jennifer Aniston in coping with tabloid scrutiny, as well as her mission to empower women through her company, Hello Sunshine.
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Early Break From A Nashville Casting Call
- Reese Witherspoon got her first big movie role at 14 after an open casting call in the back of a bar in Nashville.
- She later left Stanford after a year because she couldn't afford tuition and returned to acting, landing three major films in a row.
Leaving An Abusive Relationship Shaped Her
- Reese described leaving an abusive relationship young and how it took time to rebuild her self-worth.
- She said escaping that relationship changed her on a cellular level and required rewiring her thinking.
Paparazzi Chases Terrified Her Family
- Reese recalled terrifying paparazzi moments: people climbing on cars and chasing her children and her down freeways.
- She linked that era to trauma for many women in the spotlight, including Britney Spears.