Ryan Phillippe

Ryan Phillippe

Ryan Phillippe wants his children to do something "more meaningful" than acting.

The 38-year-old actor - who has daughter Ava, 13, and son Deacon, 9, from his relationship with Reese Witherspoon - revealed while he isn't against his offspring following a career in show business, he would prefer another route.

Ryan - who also has a two-year-old daughter Kai with former girlfriend Alexis Knapp - said: "I think there's good and bad people in each and every occupation If they're tough enough to handle all that would go along with it, then you know.

"And I've often said and I don't mean to dismiss or demean our industry but I'd like to see them do something a little more meaningful or important.

"If I had the education and what they have offered to them as kids, I may have gone a different way."

The 'Damages' star also explained he and Reese have always ensured their children have stayed "aware" of the fact that not everyone is as "privileged" as they are.

He told E! News: "That's been a core element of our parenting both Reese and I with the kids, keeping them aware.

"Neither of us grew up particularly privileged. Our kids are now, so it's important to keep them mindful and I've got to say we've done that job."