Katie Holmes Embraces Empty Nester Status as Daughter Suri Heads to College

Katie Holmes is preparing to become an empty nester as her 18-year-old daughter, Suri, embarks on a new chapter in her life by attending college. In a rare interview, Holmes expressed her pride in her daughter and spoke about the challenges and joys of being a mother-of-one in her 40s.

Katie Holmes may be best known for her role as Joey Potter on the hit TV show "Dawson's Creek," but she is also a dedicated mother to her 18-year-old daughter, Suri, whom she shares with ex-husband Tom Cruise. As Suri prepares to head to college, Holmes is opening up about the bittersweet emotions and the joy of watching her daughter grow into a confident young woman.

Katie Holmes Embraces Empty Nester Status as Daughter Suri Heads to College

"I'm proud of my daughter," Holmes told Town & Country in a recent interview. "Of course, I will miss the close proximity, but I'm really proud of her and I'm happy."

Holmes shares a close bond with Suri and has raised her primarily as a single mother since her divorce from Cruise in 2012. She has dedicated herself to providing Suri with a loving and supportive environment, ensuring that she has everything she needs to succeed.

Katie Holmes Embraces Empty Nester Status as Daughter Suri Heads to College

As Suri embarks on her college journey, Holmes is experiencing a major milestone as an empty nester. She admits that while she will miss having her daughter close by, she is excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for Suri and the chance for her to spread her wings.

"I remember being this age, this time of beginnings," Holmes said. "It's exciting to learn about yourself, and I loved that time, so it makes me happy to think about it like that."

Katie Holmes Embraces Empty Nester Status as Daughter Suri Heads to College

To cope with the transition, Holmes has thrown herself into creative pursuits, including dance classes and painting. She finds solace in the physical and mental challenges that these activities bring, as they provide her with an outlet for her emotions and a sense of accomplishment.

"I love a dance studio because every time you enter, you're starting from the beginning, and that's a good, meditative way to approach the day," Holmes shared. "I like abstract and took a class right here."

Katie Holmes Embraces Empty Nester Status as Daughter Suri Heads to College

In addition to her creative pursuits, Holmes finds comfort in the support of her close friends and family. She knows that she will have a community around her to lean on as she navigates the challenges and joys of being an empty nester.

"The members of my book club are going to get annoyed hearing from me," she quipped. "I'll be like, ‘Let's meet once a week.’"

Katie Holmes Embraces Empty Nester Status as Daughter Suri Heads to College

Suri's future is bright, and she has already made her mark in the entertainment industry by following in her parents' footsteps. She made her big screen debut in 2022 in the movie "Alone Together," directed by Holmes, and has also shown an interest in pursuing a career in fashion or acting.

Regardless of what path Suri chooses, Holmes is confident that her daughter will succeed and that she has provided her with the tools and values she needs to thrive in the world.

Katie Holmes Embraces Empty Nester Status as Daughter Suri Heads to College

As Holmes and Suri navigate this new chapter in their lives, they will continue to share a close and loving bond. Holmes is grateful for the time she has had to raise Suri and is excited about the future that lies ahead for both of them.