Laura Dern and Reese Witherspoon are two of the most talented and successful actresses in Hollywood. They have starred together in the critically acclaimed drama Wild and the hit series Big Little Lies, where they played arch-rivals. But off-screen, they are the best of friends who share a close bond that goes beyond their professional collaboration. So, is Laura Dern related to Reese Witherspoon? The answer is no, they are not blood relatives, but they do consider each other as sisters.
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How They Met and Became Friends
According to People, Laura Dern and Reese Witherspoon met for the first time in 2014, when they were cast in the film adaptation of Cheryl Strayed’s memoir Wild. The movie tells the story of Strayed’s solo hike across the Pacific Crest Trail as a way of healing from her personal traumas. Dern played Strayed’s mother, Bobbi, who died of cancer, while Witherspoon played Strayed herself.
The two actresses bonded over their shared experiences of being mothers, divorcees, and survivors of abusive relationships. They also supported each other during the challenging filming process, which involved hiking in harsh conditions and shooting emotionally intense scenes. Dern told Vanity Fair that she felt an instant connection with Witherspoon, saying: “We were on a similar journey of self-discovery and wanting to explore what it means to be a woman now.”
How They Continued Their Friendship After Wild
After Wild, Laura Dern and Reese Witherspoon remained close friends and continued to work together on various projects. They both joined the cast of Big Little Lies, a dark comedy-drama series based on the novel by Liane Moriarty. The show follows the lives of five women in Monterey, California, who become entangled in a murder mystery. Dern played Renata Klein, a powerful and wealthy businesswoman who clashes with Witherspoon’s character, Madeline Martha Mackenzie, a feisty and outspoken mother.
Despite their on-screen rivalry, Dern and Witherspoon had a lot of fun behind the scenes. They often posted selfies and videos on social media, showing their affection and admiration for each other. They also attended several award shows and events together, where they praised each other’s performances and achievements. For example, when Dern won an Oscar for her role in Marriage Story in 2020, Witherspoon congratulated her on Instagram, writing: “I love you so much @lauradern! You’ve been making me laugh and inspiring me since the day we met on Wild. I’m so happy for you!”
Why They Are Friendship Goals
Laura Dern and Reese Witherspoon are not only great friends but also great collaborators. They have both used their influence and platform to produce and star in stories that highlight the struggles and joys of women from different backgrounds and perspectives. They have also advocated for more diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry, as well as for causes such as environmental protection, women’s rights, and education.
Dern and Witherspoon are also role models for other women who want to pursue their dreams and passions without compromising their values or authenticity. They have shown that it is possible to balance a successful career with a fulfilling personal life, as well as to overcome challenges and obstacles with grace and resilience. They have also demonstrated that friendship is one of the most precious and powerful gifts that one can have in life.
In conclusion, Laura Dern and Reese Witherspoon are not related by blood, but they are related by heart. They have formed a sisterhood that transcends their professional relationship and enriches their personal lives. They are truly friendship goals that inspire us all.