Naomi Watts has shared a deeply personal moment with fans as she and ex-partner Liev Schreiber prepared to send their 18-year-old son, Sasha, off to college. The award-winning actress revealed her emotions on Instagram, giving followers a glimpse into the bittersweet milestone of watching a child leave home to begin adulthood.
The moment was marked with both tears and pride as Sasha officially enrolled at the University of Southern California (USC), where he will be pursuing a degree in acting at the prestigious School of Dramatic Arts.
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A Proud but Emotional Moment
Watts, best known for her performances in King Kong, The Ring, and The Impossible, shared photos from move-in day on August 18. In one heartfelt picture, the 56-year-old actress can be seen clinging to her son as she rests her head on his shoulder. Around them sat piles of luggage and even the family’s puppy, emphasizing the significance of the day.
Sasha, the eldest child of Watts and Schreiber, looked every bit the young adult ready to start his journey, while his younger sister Kai, 16, wrapped him in a tight hug in another photo. The post quickly resonated with fellow parents, especially those who know the struggle of letting go when children leave home for the first time.
Liev Schreiber Shares His Own Heartfelt Goodbye
While Watts opened up about her emotional farewell, Sasha’s father, actor Liev Schreiber, also took to social media to express his feelings. On August 17, he posted a photo with his son, captioning it:
“Starting to feel the pull. Gonna miss my ride or die.”
Schreiber, 57, praised his son’s character and potential, adding: “USC is gonna get one of the deepest, kindest, bravest, and most beautiful boys I have ever known.”
The touching message underscored the pride both parents feel as their son begins the next chapter of his life, despite the challenges of watching him step away from home.
Sasha’s Exciting Journey at USC
Sasha first revealed his decision to attend USC back in April. On the official Instagram page for the Class of 2029, he introduced himself to fellow students with enthusiasm:
“Hey, I’m Sasha and I’m from New York City. I’m 100 percent committed to the BFA in Acting at USC and so excited. I love acting, soccer, surfing, skating, cooking, and partying. I’m looking to meet new friends and find a roommate—so if we have any similar interests, reach out!”
This announcement highlighted not only his passion for acting but also his eagerness to embrace college life to the fullest. Given that USC’s School of Dramatic Arts has produced some of Hollywood’s most successful actors, his future looks promising.
Kai Follows Her Own Path in Fashion
While Sasha is stepping into the world of acting, his younger sister Kai has already made waves in fashion. Earlier this year, she made her runway debut at Alessandro Michele’s Valentino Fall 2025 show, marking the beginning of a modeling career that is already attracting attention.
The Schreiber-Watts siblings appear to be carving their own identities in different industries, proving that talent runs deep in the family.
Addressing the “Nepo Baby” Conversation
As the children of two Hollywood stars, Sasha and Kai have naturally been labeled “nepo babies” by some critics. However, Schreiber has been quick to dismiss such remarks.
“I don’t have many thoughts for the haters,” he told TMZ earlier this year. “But what if you were a professional actor and your child decided they wanted to do something in this world? Shouldn’t they have the choice, even if it’s the same path you took?”
His comments reflect a broader conversation about privilege, opportunity, and talent in Hollywood. For both Sasha and Kai, the spotlight brings not only opportunities but also scrutiny—a challenge they appear ready to face.
Celebrity Parents Relating to Back-to-School Season
Watts and Schreiber are far from the only celebrity parents experiencing the emotional rollercoaster of sending children back to school. This season, several stars have shared similar milestones.
Heidi Klum dropped off her son Johan in New York for his first year of college, sharing an elevator selfie to mark the day.
Tarek El Moussa and Christina Hall reunited to send their son Brayden off to his first day at a new school, joined by Tarek’s wife Heather and their younger son.
Usher proudly sent his older sons Cinco and Naviyd back to high school while his younger children started pre-kindergarten.
Jodie Sweetin admitted to feeling her home “a little less full” after her daughter Beatrix began her sophomore year.
Amanda Kloots confessed to shedding tears as her son Elvis started a new school year, dressed sharply in a three-piece suit.
These relatable moments show that even Hollywood’s most glamorous families experience the same mix of excitement and sadness when children grow up and move forward.
Naomi Watts: Balancing Family and Career
Despite her busy acting schedule, Naomi Watts has always emphasized her role as a mother. She shares two children with Schreiber, and though the pair ended their relationship in 2016, they have maintained a strong co-parenting partnership. Both Watts and Schreiber frequently celebrate their children’s achievements on social media, demonstrating mutual respect and support in raising their family.
Watts has often spoken about how motherhood reshaped her perspective on life and career. This latest chapter—watching her eldest child begin college—marks yet another transition in her journey as both an actress and a parent.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Where is Naomi Watts’ son Sasha going to college?
Sasha Schreiber is attending the University of Southern California (USC), where he will study acting at the School of Dramatic Arts.
How old is Sasha, Naomi Watts’ son with Liev Schreiber?
Sasha is 18 years old.
What did Naomi Watts say about sending her son to college?
Naomi Watts shared on Instagram that she was “already balling,” admitting she couldn’t hold back tears while dropping him off at USC.
Did Liev Schreiber also comment on Sasha starting college?
Yes, Liev Schreiber posted a heartfelt message saying he would miss his “ride or die” but praised Sasha as one of the “deepest, kindest, bravest” people he knows.
What is Sasha studying at USC?
Sasha is pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Acting.
Does Naomi Watts have other children besides Sasha?
Yes, Naomi Watts also shares a daughter, Kai, 16, with Liev Schreiber.
Is Sasha interested in a career in Hollywood like his parents?
Yes, Sasha has expressed his passion for acting and has chosen to major in acting, showing he plans to follow in his parents’ footsteps.
Conclusion
Naomi Watts’ emotional farewell to her son Sasha as he begins his college journey at USC reflects a universal parenting milestone—watching children step into adulthood. Alongside Liev Schreiber, Watts shared heartfelt words of pride and love, proving that even Hollywood stars experience the same tears and joy that every parent feels during this transition.
