Ben Stiller Reflects on Parenting Choices
In a recent interview, Ben Stiller described one of his biggest regrets as a parent: taking his daughter Ella out of a film he directed and starred in. Ella, now 23, was meant to play the role of Mitty’s daughter in “The Secret of Walter Mitty,” a movie Stiller described as perhaps the worst decision of his life.
Ella conceded that her character’s scene “didn’t really fit into the movie,” which perhaps softened the blow of her father’s admission. The film, featuring Stiller as the protagonist, was released in 2013.
Stiller opened up about this decision in an upcoming documentary focused on his parents, Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara, who were part of a well-known comedy duo. The documentary is titled “Stiller & Meara: Nothing Is Lost” and will debut in select theaters on October 17 and on Apple TV+ a week later.
Reflecting further, Stiller noted that his tendency toward perfectionism influences his parenting style. He shared that understanding his parents on a deeper level has given him more empathy for them, which in turn affects how he approaches his own role as a father.
In a candid moment, Stiller admitted that while he and his wife, Christine Taylor, have a strong relationship with their kids, he realizes that every parent makes mistakes. His son, Quinn, is 20 now, and Stiller expressed that he sometimes worries about not being the kind of father he wished he could be.
Despite the ups and downs, Stiller emphasized the importance of maintaining a good relationship with his children. He remarked, “The bonds formed in childhood are vital.” After separating in 2017, Stiller and Taylor found their way back to each other during the pandemic, when they quarantined together with their teenagers.
On the topic of their rekindled relationship, Stiller stated, “We don’t take it for granted anymore.” He believes that as long as both partners are happy, they can be better parents. However, he also acknowledged the challenges that come with long-term relationships. It’s certainly not perfect, he noted—just like life itself.
