Maddox Jolie Files to Legally Drop “Pitt” From Surname

The legal separation between Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie continues to have lasting ripples within their family. As of May 2026, the couple’s eldest son, Maddox, has taken formal steps to remove “Pitt” from his surname, opting to be known legally as Maddox Chivan Jolie.

A Continued Legal Shift

The transition is the latest in a series of name changes among the Jolie-Pitt children. Maddox, who was adopted by Angelina Jolie in 2002 and subsequently by Brad Pitt in 2006, filed the legal request in late May 2026. While the filing lists the reason for the change simply as “personal,” the move reflects a broader trend of distancing from the actor’s surname among the siblings.

The change follows similar actions taken by his siblings. In 2024, Shiloh legally removed “Pitt” from her name upon turning 18. Other siblings have also made public adjustments to how they are identified. During her graduation from Spelman College in May 2025, Zahara was introduced as “Zahara Marley Jolie,” and in 2024, Vivienne was credited as “Vivienne Jolie” for her work on the playbill for the production The Outsiders.

Professional and Personal Milestones

Maddox, now 24, has been carving out his own path in the entertainment industry, and beyond. His recent legal move coincides with a period of transition for the family, following the finalization of his parents’ divorce in December 2024 after an eight-year legal process.

Beyond his family name, Maddox has established a professional presence in film, contributing as an executive producer and production assistant on projects alongside his mother. His academic background includes studies in biochemistry at Yonsei University in South Korea, and he is known for his proficiency in multiple languages.

Key Developments in the Jolie-Pitt Family

• Legal Name Changes: Maddox, Shiloh, Zahara, and Vivienne have all moved to use “Jolie” as their surname in various legal or public capacities.
• Divorce Finalization: The marriage between Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt was legally concluded in December 2024.
• Public Visibility: Despite the ongoing familial shifts, the public remains focused on the individual trajectories of the six children as they enter adulthood.

Looking Ahead

The decision by Maddox to legally change his name underscores the complex nature of the family’s transition since the highly publicized divorce proceedings began. As the children continue to establish their own identities and careers, these legal filings serve as a definitive marker of the new chapter for the Jolie-Pitt family. While the public interest in the family remains high, the primary focus for those involved appears to be moving forward with their respective personal and professional lives.