Reese Witherspoon Cries “Tears of Joy” After “Incredible” Niece Abby’s High School Graduation

Despite Elle Woods getting into Harvard Law with ease, Reese Witherspoon knows hard work goes into graduating. 

After all, the Legally Blonde star honored her niece, Abby James Witherspoon—the eldest daughter of Reese's brother John D. Witherspoon—on her high school graduation with a heartfelt message highlighting the 18-year-old's laborious efforts. 

"Tears of joy for my incredible niece," Reese wrote in a May 27 Instagram post. "Congratulations on all the hard work, long hours of studying, the endless hours of test taking and essay writing—and biggest congrats on being the joyful, kind-hearted, energetic, funny girl we are all so proud of!"

And she summed up her feelings adding, "Such a proud aunt."

In the carousel of photos, Reese and Abby, each wearing white dresses, are posed together, with the Little Fires Everywhere star also sharing snaps of her niece walking out of her graduation ceremony and holding up her diploma. 

"Thank you so much Aunt Reese!" Abby replied under the 48-year-old's photos. "I love you."

Reese also shared a follow-up post celebrating Abby, which she captioned, "So long high school, hello college!"

Abby, who joined her Oscar-winning aunt in 2015's Hot Pursuit and also appeared in 2021's A Unicorn for Christmas, will attend Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles this fall, which she previously shared on social media in December.

And while Reese—who shares kids Ava, 24 and Deacon, 20, with ex Ryan Phillippe as well as Tennessee, 11, with ex Jim Toth—doesn't have any children of her own turning their tassels this year, there are plenty of stars who are celebrating their graduates. 

Keep reading to see all of the stars who had kids toss their caps in the air—celebrating milestones from medical school to kindergarten. 

 

Ben Stiller and Christine Taylor’s daughter graduated with a BFA in acting from The Juilliard School in New York City.

“I couldn’t be happier to be done or prouder to have survived or more grateful to my family for the unwavering support that got me there and through," the 22-year-old wrote on Instagram May 25. "I have a degree in playing pretend!!! Yay!!!”

Jennifer Gates, the eldest daughter of Bill Gates and ex-wife Melinda French Gates, graduated from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York.

Following her special day, the Microsoft founder shared a touching message to celebrate her achievement. 

"From pre-K to MD," Bill wrote in a May 15 Instagram post. "I'm so proud to officially call you Dr. Gates."

 

Jamie Lynn Spears' youngest daughter Ivey Watson, who she shares with husband Jamie Watson, graduated from kindergarten. The little one proudly held her diploma in front of her older sister Maddie Watson, who Jamie Lynn shares with ex Casey Aldridge.

Ludacris' daughter graduated from Spelman College with a degree in Documentary Filmmaking in May 2024, according to Essence. The singer said he was a "#prouddaddy" over her achievement. 

“I want to make movie and film content that helps shape and change the social and political landscape,” Karma said in a statement to the Ludacris Foundation. “Tell stories that are meaningful and thought provoking. I’ve always been drawn to storytelling due to its ability to heal, inspire, educate, create empathy, and ultimately catalyze positive change in the world.”

Nia Long and Massai Z. Dorsey's oldest son received his degree from New York University.

"Oh my baby," the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air actress wrote on Instagram May 20. "I’m so proud of you! Let’s get it!"

Jana Kramer's son Jace—who she shares with ex Mike Caussin—said goodbye to Pre-K and celebrated the milestone at a mini prom.

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