Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s eldest son, Maddox, has made headlines after dropping the Pitt surname in the credits of Jolie’s latest film, Couture.
The 24-year-old worked as an assistant director on the drama, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2025 and debuted in French theaters on February 18, 2026. In the credits, Maddox was listed simply as Maddox Jolie, marking the first time he has publicly distanced himself from the Pitt name.
A Shift in Identity
Previously, Maddox had been credited as Maddox Jolie-Pitt when working on Jolie’s earlier project, Maria. His decision to now go by Maddox Jolie suggests a symbolic move, reflecting his closer alignment with his mother.
Reports indicate that Brad Pitt has struggled to reconnect with his children in recent years. Sources told US Weekly that the actor carries “a deep emotional weight” about his family and only sees his youngest children, Knox and Vivienne, periodically.
Jolie’s Personal Connection to Couture
Directed by Alice Winocour, Couture tells the story of Maxine Walker, an American filmmaker diagnosed with breast cancer while attending Paris Fashion Week. The film explores themes of resilience and identity, with Jolie describing it as “such a personal film” that felt “so private” to her.
The cast includes Louis Garrel, Ella Rumpf, Garance Marillier, Anyier Anei, and Finnegan Oldfield, alongside Jolie in the lead role.
Family Dynamics in the Spotlight
Maddox’s decision to drop the Pitt surname comes amid ongoing reports of strained relationships between Pitt and his older children. While Jolie has continued to collaborate with her children on creative projects, Pitt’s attempts to rebuild ties have reportedly met challenges.
For Maddox, working behind the camera on Couture represents both a professional milestone and a personal statement. His choice of credit underscores the evolving dynamics within one of Hollywood’s most famous families.
