Brad Pitt Reportedly ‘Hurt’ by his 4th Kid Dropping His Last Name as He Has ‘No Power’ Over His Children Siding with Angelina Jolie

Maddox, the eldest son of Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, has filed to officially remove “Pitt” from his surname. He is seeking to be legally known as Maddox Chivan Jolie, though the request is currently pending approval.

This move is part of a broader trend among the couple’s children. At least four of their six children have now publicly distanced themselves from their father by altering or omitting his last name.

A Growing Pattern of Disconnection

The legal request from Maddox follows similar actions by his siblings. In May 2024, Shiloh, born Shiloh Nouvel Jolie-Pitt, legally changed her name to Shiloh Jolie upon turning 18.

During the same month, Vivienne was listed as “Vivienne Jolie” in the Playbill for the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical The Outsiders. Zahara omitted “Pitt” from her name during her graduation ceremony at Spelman College.

Reports indicate that Brad Pitt did not attend Zahara’s graduation and did not attempt to secure a ticket or reach out to her before the event.

The Emotional Toll and Hope for Healing

Sources indicate that Pitt is deeply affected by the situation. He reportedly feels most hurt that his children do not want a public association with his last name, describing the experience as very difficult.

Despite the current tension, Pitt reportedly keeps the door open for an eventual reconciliation with all of his children. However, he recognizes that the decision rests entirely with them and that he has no power to force a relationship.

Reflecting on Fatherhood

Pitt has previously spoken openly about his shortcomings as a parent. In May 2017, he admitted to growing up with a “Father-knows-best/war mentality” where the father is viewed as all-powerful and super strong.

He acknowledged that his divorce made him realise he needed to be more for his children. He admitted that he had not always been great at it, noting that he often let his work take him away from his family.

Pitt expressed a desire to be better at listening to his children, noting that they are delicate and absorb everything around them.

Potential Future Developments

The future of the family dynamic remains uncertain. While Pitt hopes for reconciliation, the continued legal distancing by his children suggests that a rift may persist.

A possible next step could involve further legal name changes from the remaining children, or conversely, a private effort toward healing that could eventually lead to a public reconciliation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the latest child of Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt to request a name change?
Maddox, the eldest son, filed on May 28 to remove “Pitt” from his surname and be known as Maddox Chivan Jolie.

Which other children have distanced themselves from the Pitt surname?
Shiloh legally changed her name to Shiloh Jolie, Vivienne was credited as Vivienne Jolie in a Broadway Playbill, and Zahara omitted “Pitt” during her Spelman College graduation.

What has Brad Pitt said about his parenting in the past?
In 2017, he admitted he struggled with a “Father-knows-best” mentality and acknowledged that he let his work take him away from his children, stating he wanted to be better at listening to them.

Do you believe that changing a legal name is a necessary step for children seeking to establish their own identities during family conflicts?