Angelina Jolie’s Son Maddox Takes Flight: Pursuing His Passion for Aviation

Maddox Follows in His Mother’s Aviation Footsteps

During a December 5 appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Jolie revealed that Maddox is actively working toward his pilot certification. Fallon prompted the discussion by asking Jolie about her own flight experience and whether she ever considered a career as a pilot. Jolie confirmed her enthusiasm for flying and introduced Maddox’s current training journey. She refrained from specifying whether he was focusing on piloting planes or helicopters but noted the distinctions between the licenses for each.

This isn’t the first time Jolie has spoken about Maddox’s aviation interests. In a 2017 interview with People, she credited her son for sparking her love of flying nearly two decades ago. Jolie recalled obtaining her flight license in late 2004 and purchasing an aircraft, motivated by Maddox’s excitement every time he saw a plane. “If I could fly when he was four, I would have been Superman in his eyes,” she said.

Maddox’s Journey Toward Flying Independence

Reports suggest that Maddox began learning to fly in the 2010s. Jolie previously shared that she was thrilled yet stunned when she received a notification that Maddox had reached the milestone of piloting on his own. “He’s talented and always manages to surprise me,” she said in admiration.

Maddox, born in Cambodia in 2001, became part of Jolie’s family when she adopted him at seven months old. When Jolie married Brad Pitt, he also adopted Maddox, solidifying their bond. Despite his high-profile upbringing, Maddox has maintained a relatively low public profile, focusing on academics and personal interests. He began studying Biochemistry at Underwood International College, part of South Korea’s Yonsei University, in 2019.

A Glimpse Into Maddox’s Private Life

While Maddox has largely stayed out of the spotlight, he occasionally joins his mother for significant events. In April 2023, he accompanied Jolie to a White House state dinner honoring South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol. He also made a rare red-carpet appearance with his mother and younger siblings, Pax Thien and Zahara, in September 2023.

Though he has no plans to pursue acting, Maddox has explored behind-the-scenes work in filmmaking. He served as an assistant director on Jolie’s film Maria, alongside his brother Pax Thien. Sources suggest Maddox has distanced himself from his father, Brad Pitt, dropping the “Pitt” surname in unofficial documents since 2021.

Angelina Jolie’s Enduring Legacy

Jolie, 49, has enjoyed a long and illustrious career, beginning with her screen debut alongside her father, Jon Voight, in Lookin’ to Get Out (1982). She gained prominence in 1993 with Cyborg 2 and has since won an Oscar and three Golden Globes.

Jolie and Brad Pitt, once considered a Hollywood power couple, share six children—three adopted and three biological. However, their relationship ended in 2016, with Jolie filing for divorce citing irreconcilable differences. Allegations surfaced that Pitt had been involved in an altercation with Maddox during a private flight, which reportedly influenced Jolie’s decision to separate. The former couple has since been engaged in a highly publicized legal battle, including disputes over the Miraval estate.

As Maddox continues his journey to become a certified pilot, he exemplifies the drive and passion his mother admires. His path reflects not just a connection to Jolie’s interests but also his own dedication to personal growth and exploration. With Jolie’s steadfast support and Maddox’s determination, the sky is truly the limit for this budding aviator.