Reese Witherspoon Has “Tears of Joy” at Niece’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.”