
Brad Pitt Reportedly Sends a Message to His Estranged Kids – Details
The "Bullet Train" actor and Angelina Jolie parted ways in 2016, and now some of his children are publicly distancing themselves from him by dropping his last name.
Brad Pitt is reportedly trying to reconnect with his estranged children. While some fans are rooting for a reconciliation, others believe the damage is already done, and some feel the situation is far more complicated than it seems.

A fan's reaction to the news that Brad Pitt wants to reconnect with his kids, from a post dated July 11, 2025 | Source: Facebook/culturacolectivaplus
The 61-year-old reportedly hopes to reestablish ties with his kids, especially with the youngest. According to a source, he is "desperate" to reunite with Knox and Vivienne ahead of their 17th birthday.
The insider claims the actor has reached out in hopes that the twins will "give him another chance," although he knows their agreement is unlikely. Vivienne's recent decision to drop his last name reportedly left him "totally devastated." However, Brad is said to have a "glimmer of hope" in Knox, who has kept "Jolie-Pitt" as his surname.
The actor shares six children with ex-wife Angelina Jolie: Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, and twins Knox and Vivienne. Over the years, the kids have increasingly distanced themselves from their father, many dropping "Pitt" from their surnames. One particularly public rift came in 2020, when Pax reportedly referred to his father in harsh terms on Father's Day.
With news of his attempt to make amends now circulating, fans are speaking out, and their reactions span the spectrum.

Vivienne, Angelina, Zahara, Shiloh, and Knox Jolie-Pitt during the Maleficent: Mistress of Evil European Premiere held at Imax Waterloo in London on October 9, 2019 | Source: Getty Images
An individual appeared convinced that reconciliation was a long shot, declaring, "Angie will never let it happen!" Another person chimed in, "There is always a good reason why children go no contact with a parent."
Someone else reflected on the unseen experiences that shape such decisions, "It takes a lot for kids to turn away like that from a parent. We are not in their shoes. We have no idea what they’ve lived to make them reach such a decision."

Maddox, Vivienne, Angelina Jolie, Zahara, Shiloh, and Knox Jolie Pitt during the world premiere of Marvel Studios' "Eternals" at the Dolby theatre in Los Angeles, on October 18, 2021 | Source: Getty Images
Meanwhile, a harsher critic held nothing back, stating, "He should have been better father then." In contrast, one commenter penned, "Don't beg for forgiveness, it's not your fault, your wife is the one making it worse for your children brainwashing them. Find a new life make babies and make your own way."
Another person expressed sadness, "It's horrible when a parent uses children as pawns in their revenge game." A hopeful fan wrote a message of compassion, "Forgive your father. Pray for him too."

Brad Pitt, Knox and Vivienne Jolie-Pitt on July 30, 2013 in Tokyo, Japan | Source: Getty Images
Someone else shared their hopes, "In time, your children will start to make sense of everything." And finally, a user expressed a wish for reconciliation, "Hopefully you reconcile with them, it is sad when marriages break up and one parent makes it difficult for the other parent to have access through spite."
As Brad's relationship with his children remains strained, some appear to be making their stance increasingly clear. It is not clear whether Vivienne has legally changed her name, but she dropped "Pitt" from her last name in the Playbill for "The Outsiders." In the new musical that she helped her mother, Angelina, produce, the 15-year-old is listed simply as "Vivienne Jolie," rather than "Vivienne Jolie-Pitt."

Vivienne and Angelina Jolie at the 77th Annual Tony Awards on June 16, 2024, in New York. | Source: Getty Images
Meanwhile, Shiloh officially took steps to remove "Pitt" from her name. On May 27, 2024, her 18th birthday, she filed legal documents requesting to be known as "Shiloh Jolie." The paperwork was submitted on Memorial Day, suggesting the name change is a priority as she reached adulthood.
When Zahara joined Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. at Spelman College, she also introduced herself without using the Pitt surname. In a video shared online, she identified herself simply as "Zahara Marley Jolie."
Aside from his strained relationship with his children, other areas of Brad's life appear to be more stable. In late 2024, he and Angelina finalized their divorce after an eight-year legal battle.
Now, his relationship with jewelry designer Ines de Ramon, 32, remains steady after more than two years together. According to a source close to Brad, he is in a good place.

Ines de Ramon and Brad Pitt share a smile and pose arm-in-arm on the red carpet at the "F1: The Movie" premiere in London, on June 23, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
Brad also stars in "F1," a high-budget film that cost over $200 million and took three years to make. The experience, he said, reignited his passion for acting.
Playing veteran driver Sonny Hayes and filming on real "F1" tracks at speeds of up to 180 mph gave him a renewed sense of excitement about his craft. A source close to Brad described the production as an energizing experience for the 61-year-old actor.

Brad Pitt at the F1 Grand Prix of Great Britain in Northampton, England on July 4, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Additionally, "F1" is expected to be a major box office success. Early reviews are strong, and Brad is reportedly confident about the film's performance. According to a second source, the excitement around the project has been especially rewarding for him.
Getting to this more grounded place took time and effort. In 2017, Brad shared that he had become sober and begun therapy, a journey he has continued over the years. According to a source, therapy has played a significant role in his growth.

Brad Pitt attends the "Wolfs" red carpet on September 1, 2024 in Venice, Italy | Source: Getty Images
His work has also offered structure and purpose, both on-screen and behind the scenes through his production company, Plan B. Brad's also expanding his interests beyond film, launching a new linen line in 2025 under his luxury brand, God's True Cashmere, which he co-founded with holistic healer Sat Hari.
In a recent interview, he reflected on the peace he's found by focusing on what truly matters, including his relationships and sense of self.
This story is developing. Please refresh the page for more updates.

Brad Pitt at a presentation event for "Bullet Train" in Paris, France on July 18, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
The relationship Brad Pitt is now publicly embracing is the one he shares with Ines. The couple attended the world premiere of "F1" in New York City, where video footage of them appearing close sparked widespread discussion online. While some viewers praised their chemistry, many comments focused on the optics of their dynamic, with Ines facing a wave of criticism.

Netizen comment about Ines de Ramon and Brad Pitt, posted on June 18, 2025. | Source: Instagram/girlfromjerseycity
The couple's red carpet presence was nothing short of striking. Brad, ever the Hollywood heartthrob, looked effortlessly sharp in a navy blue, double-breasted suit layered over a crisp dress shirt.
His sleek silhouette, paired with a pale pink pocket square, added a touch of refined ease to the glamorous affair. At times during the event, the star was also seen sporting light-colored shades.

Brad Pitt at the world premiere of "F1" in New York City on June 16, 2025. | Source: Getty Images
Standing gracefully beside him, Ines turned heads in an ethereal, light-colored two-piece ensemble. Her halter-neck top, sheer through the midriff, flowed seamlessly into a long skirt adorned with delicate feathered detailing — a look that blended elegance with soft sensuality. She paired her outfit with a small handbag.

Brad Pitt and Ines de Ramon posing for photos at the "F1" world premiere. | Source: Getty Images
The "Fight Club" talent's appearance at the event comes as no surprise, as it was the premiere of the movie he stars in as Sonny Hayes, alongside fellow A-listers Damson Idris, Kerry Condon, Javier Bardem, Kim Bodnia, Tobias Menzies, and Sarah Niles.
"F1" was directed by Joseph Kosinski and made in collaboration with Lewis Hamilton. The sports drama is scheduled to show in theaters on June 27.

Brad Pitt, Lewis Hamilton, and Damson Idris. | Source: Getty Images
Brad and Ines's polished entrance at the premiere was only the beginning of what would become the evening's most buzzed-about moment. At the event's afterparty, a video captured a tender exchange between the two.

Ines de Ramon and Brad Pitt conversing at the "F1" premiere afterparty, posted on June 17, 2025. | Source: Instagram/girlfromjerseycity
Seated closely on a couch inside the venue, the couple appeared deep in conversation as Ines leaned in and whispered something in Brad's ear.
As the moment unfolded, she shifted even nearer and draped an arm around his shoulders while her other hand gently cradled his face. A soft kiss followed — brief, yet intimate. Ines's embrace lingered, and her arm trailed down to rest across his back.

Ines de Ramon kissing Brad Pitt. | Source: Instagram/girlfromjerseycity
The clip concluded with the couple posing for photos before they strolled off together, leaving behind a flurry of speculation and a visual memory that netizens would dissect frame by frame. "Lovebirds 🥰❤️," reads the video post's caption.
Once the footage made its rounds online, reactions came in fast and divided. A wave of skepticism swept through the comment sections, with many viewers criticizing and doubting the authenticity of the pair's interaction.

Ines de Ramon and Brad Pitt at the "F1" afterparty. | Source: Instagram/girlfromjerseycity
One netizen remarked, "She's so clingy 🤔," while another echoed the sentiment, "She's too clingy. When he was with Angelina he seems more head over heels she was knife that stabbed him in the heart [sic]." The criticisms continued with someone else stating, "She is not going to last. He's not infatuated with her."
Another person chimed in with a bolder claim, "He misses Angelina Jolie. Brad doesn't love this new women. I can see it in is eyes [sic]."
Others were less concerned with the couple's dynamic and more focused on Brad himself, suggesting the actor's emotional unavailability. One person opined, "Brad loves himself and only himself."
Despite the backlash, the couple did receive some warm praise amid the critiques. One admirer swooned, "Gorgeous together — best of luck and much happiness Brad [sic] and Ines," while a fellow fan complimented, "Beautiful together." Another simply celebrated their bond, noting, "Amazing chemistry."

Brad Pitt and Ines de Ramon smiling together. | Source: Getty Images
Despite the flurry of social media speculation, those close to Brad suggest a vastly different story — one steeped not in imbalance, but in deep mutual contentment. According to a source close to the actor, Brad was more than pleased to have Ines by his side for the "F1" premiere.
Their joint appearance, a rare and meaningful one, wasn't for show — it marked a continued affirmation of their flourishing bond.

Brad Pitt and Ines de Ramon. | Source: Getty Images
Described as "very supportive" and refreshingly free of drama, Ines has reportedly brought a calm confidence into Brad's life.
Those within his circle have even gone so far as to call her "perfect" for him, pointing to the ease of their connection and the steady rhythm they've established since first being romantically linked in late 2022.