Jessica Biel says son Silas Timberlake must earn acting roles despite famous parents

She reveals why she allowed her son to appear in ‘Matchbox: The Movie’

Jessica Biel has explained why she refuses to let her eldest son, Silas Timberlake, receive acting opportunities simply because he is the child of famous parents. The 11 year old recently made his feature film debut in Matchbox: The Movie, which stars his mother.

Speaking on the Great Chat Show, Biel said Silas had shown an interest in acting and music, describing him as naturally funny and theatrical. She also revealed that he is a DJ and enjoys creating music, adding that his interest in performing had become a recurring conversation within the family.

The opportunity to appear in Matchbox: The Movie came when producer Jules Daly approached Biel about a small role for Silas. Although the actress initially had reservations about exposing her children to the entertainment industry, she and husband Justin Timberlake eventually agreed because the part was limited and Silas was interested in acting.

Biel stressed that her son should not be given opportunities at the expense of young performers who have worked hard to develop their skills.

“You cannot take a part from that person just because you are my son,” she explained, adding that Silas would need to earn larger roles rather than expect them because of his family connections.

The actress also recalled how her son became frustrated on his first day on set because he spent the day waiting without filming any scenes. Biel used the experience to explain the realities of acting, asking whether he still wanted to pursue the profession after seeing how much waiting the job could involve.

According to Biel, Silas returned the following day and was able to work, making the experience a valuable lesson.

Biel and Timberlake married in 2012 and have two sons, Silas and Phineas, born in 2015 and 2020, respectively. While the couple have generally kept their children out of the public eye, Biel said she is willing to support Silas exploring his interests while making sure he understands that professional opportunities must be earned.