Shiloh Jolie Pitt, daughter of Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, has made a significant personal decision by legally dropping her father’s last name. On her 18th birthday, Shiloh requested the court to officially remove “Pitt” from her name. This decision has sparked widespread speculation about her relationship with her father, Brad Pitt. Shiloh’s lawyer, Peter Levine, addressed these reports and clarified that no newspaper ad was personally taken out by Shiloh. “Shiloh Jolie did not take out an ‘ad’ announcing any name change, and any press reporting that is inaccurate,” Levine stated. He explained that the publication of a legal notice in the Los Angeles Times was a requirement by California law for anyone seeking a name change.
Levine emphasized the importance of accurate reporting, particularly when it involves young adults making deeply personal decisions. He urged the media to be cautious in their coverage, stating that Shiloh’s decision followed “painful events” and was part of a legal process.
Reasons Behind the Name Change
The exact reasons behind Shiloh’s decision to drop her father’s last name have not been publicly disclosed. However, her lawyer hinted at a difficult period in her life. Following her 18th birthday in May, Shiloh reportedly filed a legal request to change her name. This move came shortly after her younger sister, Vivienne, was credited as Vivienne Jolie in the Playbill for The Outsiders.
Sources close to Brad Pitt have revealed that he is “extremely hurt” by Shiloh’s decision. Shiloh was his first biological daughter, and he reportedly cherished their bond deeply. “He always wanted a daughter,” a source mentioned, highlighting the emotional impact of Shiloh’s decision on Pitt.
Brad Pitt’s relationship with his children has been described as “strained” for some time, with limited visitation rights. An insider noted, “It’s certainly tough for Brad to be constantly reminded of the distance from his children. He loves and misses them dearly. It’s a very sad situation.” The former couple shares five other children: Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, and twins Vivienne and Knox.
Ongoing Legal Battles
The backdrop of Shiloh’s name change includes the ongoing legal battles between Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. Their highly publicized divorce, though they were legally declared single in 2019, remains unresolved. The dispute has been fueled by accusations of a physical altercation in 2016 and continues to be entangled in legalities, particularly concerning the sale of their French winery, Château Miraval. Jolie sold her shares for $67 million in 2021, a sale Pitt is contesting in court.