Full Breakdown
Angelina Jolie Says She’s Stepping Back as Her Children Forge Their Own Paths
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Embracing Independence in Her Children
In a recent interview with *L'Officiel*, the Oscar-winning actress explained that allowing her six children to develop as distinct individuals is a primary goal of her parenting. She described the balance parents must strike between guidance and restraint, emphasizing that “not getting in the way” of each child’s separate life is essential.
Children’s Careers, Name Changes, and Ages
Jolie’s offspring range from Maddox, 25, to twins Knox and Vivienne, 18. Four of the children have legally distanced themselves from their father’s surname: Shiloh changed her name, while Zahara, Vivienne and Maddox have filed petitions to do the same. Several have begun professional pursuits: Maddox and Pax have worked as assistant directors on film sets, gaining exposure to multiple production departments; Pax also explores photography, and Maddox is focused on aviation. Knox recently attended a high-school graduation ceremony marked by Tibetan prayer flags before heading to a Muay Thai fight the same evening.
Official Statements & Future Plans
Jolie said her children’s growing independence is encouraging her to revisit personal interests that receded during their upbringing. She expressed a desire for “more connection and community,” planning to travel more, return to fieldwork, and deepen involvement with her foundation in Cambodia. Adventurous activities such as riding a motorcycle and piloting a plane are also on her agenda, with her children’s support reinforcing the shift.
Verbatim Quote
“As a parent, you try to do many things, but you also try to not get in the way of this human being who has a life separate from yours and so much potential in their own mind,” — Hide Caption Angelina Jolie
