When Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt first got together, their relationship immediately sparked a media frenzy. Known for their beauty and success in Hollywood, the couple quickly became the subject of intense public interest. Their romance began while working together on the film Mr. & Mrs. Smith in 2004, even though Pitt was still married to Jennifer Aniston at the time. Despite rumors surrounding infidelity, the couple’s relationship endured for over a decade, and they became a symbol of Hollywood power, raising six children together — three biological and three adopted.
Shiloh Jolie-Pitt’s Birth: A Global Event
The couple’s first biological child, Shiloh, was born in 2006, and her birth quickly became a global event. Angelina had kept her pregnancy private, and when the time came, she and Brad chose to travel to Namibia to ensure their child’s arrival was protected from the media frenzy. The couple’s efforts to maintain privacy were in vain, as the first photo of Shiloh was reportedly worth a million dollars. Despite the massive attention, the couple donated the proceeds to UNICEF and used the opportunity to bring attention to the issues facing children in developing countries.
Shiloh’s birth was marked by the media’s obsession with the Jolie-Pitt family, but the couple remained committed to keeping their children out of the public eye. Their desire for privacy persisted, although their daughter’s unique circumstances and famous lineage made it difficult to avoid the spotlight.
A Name Change: Shiloh Becomes John
As Shiloh grew, it became apparent that she wasn’t particularly interested in traditional gender norms. According to Brad Pitt, Shiloh preferred to be called “John” or “Peter,” even going so far as to ask her parents to call her by those names. Angelina supported her child’s choice and encouraged Shiloh to dress how she felt most comfortable, cutting her hair short and allowing her to wear boyish clothing. Although “Shiloh” held personal significance for Angelina, she respected her daughter’s decision to go by John.
This willingness to support her daughter’s identity and gender expression reflects the Jolie-Pitts’ open-minded approach to parenting. Despite the media’s fascination with their family, Brad and Angelina ensured that their children felt safe and supported in expressing themselves as they saw fit.
Maintaining Strong Family Bonds After the Divorce
Despite the divorce in 2019, Shiloh has maintained strong relationships with both of her parents. Brad Pitt has spoken proudly of his children, often highlighting how much he learns from them. Sources close to the family report that, since the custody arrangements have been finalized, Brad and Angelina have been getting along better. Shiloh, in particular, is described as a loving and supportive sibling who remains true to herself while being good to her brothers and sisters.
Brad is notably proud of the young woman Shiloh is becoming, with many commenting on her resemblance to him, especially in her facial features, while others note that she has inherited Angelina’s lips. These observations are testament to the strong bond between father and daughter, as Brad continues to support her every step of the way.
Shiloh’s Health and Fashion Evolution
In March 2020, Angelina Jolie shared that Shiloh had undergone hip surgery, a decision made for her health and well-being. This moment of vulnerability highlighted the family’s commitment to taking care of one another. Over the years, Shiloh’s appearance and style have evolved, with her attending public events dressed in some of her mother’s iconic outfits, such as a black-and-white Dior dress and a Gabriela Hearst dress. These moments, especially when Shiloh chooses to borrow her mother’s clothes, reflect her growing confidence and personal style.
Through all the media scrutiny, Brad and Angelina have handled their children’s privacy with great care, allowing Shiloh and her siblings the freedom to explore their identities and express themselves. Their approach to parenting offers valuable lessons on supporting children in their own journeys, regardless of public attention.