Maddox Jolie-Pitt, born on August 5, 2001, in Cambodia, has become a notable figure in the entertainment industry as an actor and assistant director. Known for his work in films such as First They Killed My Father (2017) and By the Sea (2015), Maddox continues to make strides in his career. His journey began when he was adopted by Angelina Jolie in 2002, marking the start of a life filled with opportunities and challenges.
The Early Years: Angelina Jolie and Maddox
In 2004, Angelina Jolie made headlines with her son Maddox at the premiere of Shark Tale during the 61st Venice Film Festival. This marked one of their first public appearances together. At the time, Jolie, who was 44 years old, had already adopted Maddox, bringing him into a world that would eventually include five more siblings. As Maddox turned 18, fans celebrated his growth from a young boy to a promising young man ready to take on the world.
Around this period, Brad Pitt joined the family, adopting Maddox alongside Zahara in the early 2000s. Together, they formed a blended family that captured global attention. Despite their parents' eventual separation, Maddox and his siblings have continued to thrive, forging their own paths in life.
Maddox's Contributions to Cinema
Maddox’s involvement in the film industry extends beyond acting. In recent years, he has taken on significant roles behind the scenes. For instance, he worked as a production assistant on his mother’s latest project, Maria, where she plays famed opera singer Maria Callas. According to Jolie, having her sons Maddox and Pax on set meant a lot to her, showcasing their dedication and hard work.
One of Maddox's most notable achievements came when he earned an executive-producer credit for First They Killed My Father, a Netflix adaptation of Loung Ung’s memoir about Cambodia under the Khmer Rouge regime. His contributions included reading scripts, providing feedback, and participating in production meetings—activities that reflect his deep connection to his homeland.
The Maddox Jolie-Pitt Foundation
In addition to his professional endeavors, Maddox inspired the creation of the Maddox Jolie-Pitt Foundation, established by his mother to support sustainable development projects in Cambodia. The foundation focuses on initiatives like education, healthcare, and environmental conservation, embodying what Jolie calls the #HeartOfGold spirit. Through these efforts, Maddox’s legacy extends far beyond the silver screen.
A Family Affair: Collaborations Between Maddox and Angelina
Collaboration runs deep within the Jolie-Pitt household. Recently, Maddox and Pax assisted their mother on the set of Without Blood, demonstrating their commitment to learning the craft. During a screening of another classic film, The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly, Maddox reportedly expressed great enjoyment, highlighting his appreciation for cinematic artistry.
Despite past controversies surrounding their parents’ divorce—including allegations of physical altercations aboard a private flight in 2016—Maddox remains focused on his future. Now 23 years old, he has been hired as the third assistant director on a new film set in the glamorous world of high fashion. This role underscores his growing expertise and passion for filmmaking.
Maddox's Global Impact
As Maddox steps further into adulthood, he continues to inspire those around him. From gracing the White House alongside his mother during a state dinner to contributing meaningfully to various film projects, Maddox exemplifies resilience and ambition. His unique background—as both an adoptee from Cambodia and part of one of Hollywood’s most iconic families—positions him as a bridge between cultures and generations.
In summary, Maddox Jolie-Pitt is not just following in his famous mother’s footsteps but carving out his own distinct path in the world. With each new challenge and opportunity, he proves himself to be a talented individual committed to making a difference both personally and globally.