Hollywood star Brad Pitt has spoken publicly for the first time about several of his children choosing to remove “Pitt” from their surnames, saying he understands their decision as the family continues to deal with the fallout of his long-running split from ex-wife Angelina Jolie. His remarks came after weeks of renewed attention surrounding the legal name changes of several of the couple’s children. The issue resurfaced after Vivienne Jolie-Pitt, 18, filed a petition in Los Angeles County Superior Court to legally change her name to Vivienne Marcheline Jolie, citing “personal” reasons. She joins siblings Shiloh, Zahara and Maddox, who have either legally dropped or publicly stopped using the Pitt surname in recent years. According to reports, Pitt addressed the matter during a recent press interaction, acknowledging his children’s choice and expressing support despite the emotional toll it has taken on him. “I understand,” Pitt said when asked about the surname changes. He added, “And if they don’t want it, neither do I.” The Oscar-winning actor continued, “I want them to know that I stand with them as they bravely turn the page on the hell I put them through.” The remarks marked the first time Pitt has publicly commented on the issue since multiple children moved to distance themselves from his surname. Sources present at the event said the actor appeared emotional while discussing the situation. Pitt reportedly admitted it was painful to realise that some of his children no longer wished to be associated with his name. Reflecting on their decision, he said, “So when they decide that being associated with me is just an unacceptable way to live the rest of their lives.” Despite his disappointment, Pitt stressed that he respected their choice. “That’s what being a dad’s all about,” he said, adding that he offered his “100%” support to Shiloh, Zahara, Maddox and Vivienne as they move forward with their decisions. Pitt and Jolie finalised their divorce in December 2024, ending years of legal proceedings that began after Jolie filed for divorce in 2016. Since then, reports have consistently described a strained relationship between Pitt and several of the couple’s six children. The family rift has often been linked to an alleged altercation aboard a private plane in 2016, after which Jolie initiated divorce proceedings. While the actor had largely remained silent on the matter, reports suggested he had intentionally kept his distance from the public discussion to avoid escalating tensions within the family. On the same day his comments emerged, Pitt was photographed spending time with his girlfriend, Ines de Ramon, in Carmel Highlands, California. The couple, who have reportedly been together since November 2022, appeared relaxed during the outing despite continued public interest in Pitt’s relationship with his children. The surname changes continue to attract widespread attention, reflecting the ongoing estrangement within one of Hollywood’s most closely watched families. Pitt’s latest remarks suggest he is choosing acceptance over confrontation as his children make deeply personal decisions about their identities.
