Naomi Watts reveals a shocking moment with her teens and why they call her boldest mum ever

Naomi Watts has never been one to shy away from the awkward moments of parenting, but this one may take the crown. The 56-year-old actress, known for her roles in King Kong and The Impossible, recently revealed an incident with her teenage son that left both of them red-faced but ultimately strengthened their bond.

Speaking to PEOPLE magazine, Watts shared how one of her children stumbled upon a rather personal item left on her bed – a glowing, multi-speed vibrator. “It was embarrassing for both of us,” she confessed, “but honestly, it wasn’t entirely unexpected.”

The moment, though mortifying, is emblematic of Watts’ parenting style – open, honest, and unflinching. Her children, Sasha (17) and Kai (16), are no strangers to her candid approach. “They’re used to me talking about things others avoid. Sometimes they cringe, but other times, they cheer me on,” she said with a laugh.

Watts has been vocal about her personal struggles, particularly her experience with early menopause. She first encountered this life-altering change at just 36, shortly after starring in Peter Jackson’s King Kong. The discovery came as a shock, especially as she was trying to conceive at the time.

“It was isolating and confusing,” she admitted. “No one talks about it, and that silence makes it even harder.” Determined to break the stigma, Watts has since become an outspoken advocate for menopause awareness. She regularly discusses her journey in interviews and even dedicated an entire book to the subject.

Her latest release, Dare I Say It: Everything I Wish I’d Known About Menopause, has garnered widespread attention. In it, she shares the physical and emotional toll of menopause while encouraging women to embrace their changing bodies with pride.

Watts’ boldness extends to her role as a mother. She often uses her personal experiences to educate her children about life’s realities, even if it means wading into uncomfortable territory. “I think it’s important for them to see me as human – flaws and all,” she explained.

Despite the occasional awkward moment, her children have grown to appreciate her honesty. “There are times when they’re completely grossed out,” she joked. “But there are also times when they’re like, ‘Rock on, Mum.’”

This balance of vulnerability and confidence is what makes Watts’ parenting style so unique. By confronting taboos head-on, she’s setting an example of resilience and openness for her children – and for the world.

For Watts, moments like the bedroom discovery are just part of the journey. “Parenting isn’t about being perfect,” she said. “It’s about being real.