The union of Hollywood icons Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt once captivated the media, stirring a mix of adoration, disdain, and curiosity. Their 12-year journey together, amidst rumors and speculations, saw them raising a blended family of three biological children and three adopted ones.
Angelina, already a mother to adopted sons Maddox and Pax, crossed paths with Brad on the set of “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” in 2004, a period when Pitt was still married to Jennifer Aniston. The magnetic connection between Angelina and Brad blossomed into an unexpected friendship and partnership, which eventually evolved into a romantic relationship.
Amidst swirling rumors, the couple decided to adopt Ethiopia-born Zahara Marley in 2005, with Brad co-adopting her in 2006. The confirmation of their relationship came in 2006 when Angelina announced her pregnancy with Brad’s child, prompting them to seek the tranquility of Namibia for the birth to escape the media frenzy.
Shiloh Nouvel, the couple’s first biological child, was born on May 27, 2006, at a private hospital in Namibia. The birth sparked global interest, with the first picture of the newborn estimated to be worth a staggering $1 million, reflecting the world’s fascination with “Brangelina.”
In an altruistic move, the couple sold the pictures, directing the proceeds to UNICEF, highlighting the stark contrast between the celebrity spotlight and global issues.
As Shiloh turned 16 in May, her journey into adolescence attracted attention. The teenager, reportedly close to her siblings, including older brothers and sister, as well as younger twins Knox and Vivienne, has opted for a unique path. Shiloh, who now goes by the name John Jolie-Pitt, made this choice early in life, expressing a preference for a non-conventional name.
Despite the high-profile divorce of her parents in 2019, Shiloh, now John, maintains strong relationships with both Angelina and Brad. The parents fully support John’s choice of identity, including her desire to match clothing styles with her brothers.
Angelina shared the personal significance of the name Shiloh, revealing it was a name her parents considered for their first child. Despite this, the actress approved of John’s decision and emphasized her daughter’s comfort and self-expression.
In March 2020, Angelina disclosed that Shiloh, now John, had undergone hip surgery, shedding light on the challenges and resilience within the family.
The revelation was part of Angelina’s message for International Women’s Day, advocating for the value and care of girls.
Shiloh’s public appearances in borrowed dresses from her mother, such as at the U.K. premiere of Marvel’s “Eternals,” sparked attention and discussion about her evolving style.
The Jolie-Pitt family’s approach to Shiloh’s choices serves as a noteworthy example, emphasizing acceptance and allowing the teenager the freedom to explore and define her identity at her own pace.
In a world that often imposes ideals, the Jolie-Pitts showcase a commitment to supporting their children’s individuality and personal growth.