Oscar-winning actress Laura Dern is a devoted mother of two. Her firstborn faced a health scare during infancy but has since grown into a striking young man. Take a look at his latest pictures.
Hollywood actress Laura Dern is a single mom to her now-adult children, whom she shares with her ex-husband, musician Ben Harper. The couple tied the knot in December 2005 but went their separate ways in September 2013, ending their seven-year marriage.
Laura Dern and Ben Harper at the 47th Annual Grammy Awards on February 13, 2005, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
The couple welcomed their first child, a son named Ellery Harper, who overcame health challenges early in life in August 2001. Their family grew once more in November 2004 with the arrival of their daughter, Jaya Harper.
In a May 2017 interview, Laura reflected on motherhood, explaining that, at first, it can feel like an added responsibility while still finding your own path. However, with time, parenting becomes central to every thought and decision.
She shared how becoming a parent intensified her commitment to issues like environmental health, shifting her priorities to focus more on serving her children and family. In an interview, Laura shared her thoughts on the double standards faced by mothers and fathers after divorce, drawing from her own experience as a single mom.
“There’s always a double standard, for all of us,” Laura stated. She reflected on the challenges of single-parenting after divorce, explaining that there isn’t always another parent to back you up, saying, “You misunderstand what their point of view is.”
She further discussed how misunderstandings can play a role in custody battles, as depicted in her film “Marriage Story.” Laura added, “I myself have felt it in pretty much every aspect of my life.”
She emphasized that double standards could reduce if society addressed gender roles in a healthier way, noting, “If gender roles were really clear we wouldn’t be in a mess, because we’d all be vulnerably available to be all things.” Although the divorce brought challenges, the movie star has remained committed to raising her kids and holds them in the highest regard.
After winning a Golden Globe Award in 2020 for her role in “Marriage Story,” the loving mother of two gushed about her children. She said her kids were “Amazing,” adding that they came “from love despite an ending in a marriage.” She considers herself privileged to redefine what family looks like.”
Laura spoke about how motherhood had changed her, explaining that certain experiences now trigger a deep, emotional response. She recalled watching Jimmy Kimmel, which inspired her to share her son’s life-threatening surgery at birth and the terror they felt during that time on Instagram.
Laura Dern and Ellery Walker Harper attend the premiere of “Nebraska,” 2013 | Source: Getty Images
Since then, Ellery has grown into a young man keenly interested in show business. He is now a model and made his mark by walking in the Calvin Klein show during New York Fashion Week for the Spring/Summer 2019 collection in September 2018.
Ellery Harper struts the runway in Calvin Klein’s Spring/Summer 2019 collection during New York Fashion Week on September 11, 2018. | Source: Getty Images
Ellery’s curly hair stands out as part of his signature look. Styled in a natural, slightly tousled manner, his curls add a casual yet chic contrast to the structured outfit. This effortless hairdo has become a defining feature of his presence in the modeling world, giving him a distinctive edge that complements his runway appearances.
Ellery Walker Harper attends Post Emmy Awards Reception on September 17, 2017, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Ellery has even collaborated with his mother for Proenza Schouler’s Mercedes-Benz campaign in 2021, set against the picturesque backdrop of the British countryside. Reflecting on the experience, Ellery shared that working with his mom was wonderful.
He expressed how much he enjoys traveling with his family, and exploring Dorset and other parts of England with her was an unforgettable experience.
Laura Dern and Ellery Harper attend the 70th Emmy Awards on September 17, 2018, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
In August 2022, Laura celebrated Ellery’s 21st birthday with a heartfelt tribute on Instagram. She shared a nostalgic throwback photo from his childhood with a family picture showing Ellery all grown up.
In her post, Laura expressed how he is the “greatest gift” she could have ever wished for, saying how blessed she feels to love and learn from him. She added, “You teach me every day…about art..empathy..and grace.” Laura also praised Ellery for his kindness and ability to make her laugh daily.
Laura Dern and Ellery Harper at the premiere of “Marriage Story,” 2019 | Source: Getty Images
Ellery is now 23 years old and is noticeably taller than his mother, showcasing his impressive height. This height difference was particularly evident when they attended the 21st Annual Warner Bros. and InStyle Golden Globe After Party in 2020.
Laura Dern and Ellery Harper at the 21st Annual Warner Bros. and InStyle Golden Globe after party on January 5, 2020, in Beverly Hills. | Source: Getty Images
“Can’t believe how grown up he is! I remember him as a toddler,” wrote one person. Another gushed, “Wow,” while one Instagram user exclaimed, “Beautiful!” Someone else mentioned Ellery’s achievements, writing, “Such terrific work. Can’t wait to see what you do next. You have so much potential that it’s just waiting to be given the opportunity.”
Another individual compared him to a late singer-songwriter, saying, “Your son looks like Jeff Buckley.” Meanwhile, another social media user likened Ellery to his grandfather, stating, “Handsome lad looks like grandpa!” “He looks just like his Grandfather, wow!” echoed another.
Ellery and his mother are not the only ones to love being in front of the camera. His grandfather, Bruce Dern, is also a well-known figure.
Bruce is a famous actor known for his role in “Coming Home” (1978), a performance that earned him multiple nominations, including an Academy Award nomination. His impressive career has garnered numerous accolades, solidifying his legacy in Hollywood.
Ellery Harper has grown into a striking young man, carving out his own path in modeling while carrying on his family’s artistic legacy. With the support of his mother, Laura Dern, and the inspiration of his renowned grandfather, Bruce, he continues to make his mark in show business.
