American actor Brad Pitt faces a new challenge in his relationship with his children from his ex-partner Angelina Jolie. Reports indicate that their 18-year-old son, Knox, is preparing to take legal action to remove his father's last name, Pitt, from his own, becoming the fifth of the six children to do so. Knox has not yet filed formal papers, but a source close to the family confirms that this step is inevitable.
Knox has already begun using his mother's last name, Jolie, instead of his father's, Knox Jolie Pitt, on his high school graduation certificate in Los Angeles in June. This development comes days after his twin sister, Vivian, obtained court approval to remove her father's name, changing her legal name to Vivian Marcheline Jolie. Vivian submitted her request in July, citing personal reasons.
Knox's decision follows in the footsteps of his siblings, who have also chosen to distance themselves from their father's name. Shiloh obtained legal approval to change her name in August 2024, while Zahara completed the process of removing her father's name in September 2026. Maddox also removed "Pitt" from his name, becoming Maddox Shivan Jolie, in the same month.
These decisions reflect the ongoing rift between Brad Pitt and his children, which has escalated since his separation from Angelina Jolie in 2016. The couple's divorce was finalized in December 2024, after a lengthy and complicated process. A source close to Brad Pitt believes that the repeated name changes demonstrate the children's continued estrangement from their father.
However, a source close to Angelina Jolie suggests that the actress has participated in family therapy sessions with Brad Pitt and their children for years, attempting to mitigate the effects of past events. The source notes that the erosion of trust between the father and children has significantly impacted their relationship.
The dispute between the former couple extends beyond their personal lives, with an ongoing legal battle over ownership of their French wine estate, Château Miraval. The situation highlights the complexities of the family's relationships and the ongoing challenges they face.
As the children continue to assert their independence, it remains to be seen how Brad Pitt will respond to these developments. The actor has not publicly commented on the situation, but sources indicate that he is deeply affected by the children's decisions.
Key points
- Knox, Angelina Jolie's 18-year-old son, plans to change his last name from Pitt to Jolie.
- Five of Angelina Jolie's six children have now removed their father's last name.
- The name changes reflect the ongoing rift between Brad Pitt and his children.
