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Matthew Broderick Discusses His Children’s Divergent Paths in Acting

Matthew Broderick recently highlighted the varying perspectives of his children regarding the acting profession during a conversation with PEOPLE at the 2025 SeriousFun Children’s Network Gala on April 7.

The 63-year-old actor shared that his 13-year-old twins, Tabitha Hodge and Marion Loretta Elwell, have distinctly different feelings about following in their parents’ footsteps. While one of his daughters expresses a strong disinterest in acting, stating, “Nope, absolutely not,” Broderick’s son, James Wilkie, 22, shows enthusiasm and ambition for an acting career.

“I think he is gonna try, yeah. He’s very smart,” Broderick remarked about James, noting that the young man has a solid educational background that provides him with various options. “Right now, he likes acting,” he added.

Broderick and his wife, Sarah Jessica Parker, actively support their son in his pursuit of an acting career, with Parker even assisting him in preparing audition tapes. “Well, I’ll give advice if I’m asked,” Broderick said, humorously mentioning that Parker often reads with James and provides constructive feedback on his performances.

This supportive family dynamic extends to their professional collaborations as well. Earlier in January, Broderick expressed pride in James’ on-screen debut in the CBS series Elsbeth. “So proud and happy to work with my son James,” he said, adding that he was eager to see the finished episode.

In a broader context, Parker has also articulated her views on parenting and guiding their children toward independence. During a 2023 appearance on iHeartRadio’s Table for Two with Bruce Bozzi, she emphasized the importance of teaching children the value of hard work and self-sufficiency. “You want your children to understand what it means to earn money, what it takes to earn money, the value of it,” she remarked.

Parker also highlighted the importance of providing a nurturing environment for their children while instilling a sense of ambition and curiosity. She emphasized that while their needs for love, safety, and sustenance should be met, there’s also value in teaching them to aspire for more and to appreciate experiences and material desires.

Source
people.com