Reese Witherspoon: I am over-achiever

The 34-year-old star has had a hugely successful Hollywood career so far, appearing in hit films such as Cruel Intentions, Legally Blonde and Walk the Line. She also has her own production company called Type A Productions, and admits the name stems from her desire to push herself and be the best she can be.

“It’s a childhood nickname. My mother used to call me Little Miss Type A,” she replied when Total Film asked how she acquired the name for the business.

“I like to be organised, I like to push myself. I probably do have a little bit of that over-achiever syndrome.”

As well as being a successful film actress and producer, Reese is also a devoted mother to 11-year-old daughter Ava and seven-year-old son Deacon, her children with ex-husband Ryan Phillippe. The star believes she has instilled good manners in her children, something she considers fundamental in life.

“I’m strict with my kids, too. I believe in ‘Please’ and ‘Thank you’ and being kind and respecting your elders. I make them write thank you notes. It’s important. Those things were instilled in me and have really been helpful in my life,” added the actress.