Angelina Jolie seemingly pleads with Brad Pitt to leave their kids in peace amid long-standing custody battle

In a candid interview with Good Morning America, Angelina Jolie made it clear that her children are the most important part of her life—a sentiment she emphasized with a heartfelt plea seemingly directed at her ex-husband, Brad Pitt, amid their ongoing custody battle. The actress, 49, spoke with host Michael Strahan while promoting her latest film, Maria, where she plays the iconic opera singer Maria Callas. When asked about a passion in her life comparable to Callas’ love for music, Jolie didn’t hesitate: “Motherhood,” she said with a glowing smile. “It’s my happiness. You can take everything from me…nothing else matters.”

Jolie’s powerful statement underscores her deep love and commitment to her six children: Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, and twins Knox and Vivienne. It also serves as a subtle yet pointed message to Pitt, who continues to contest custody arrangements in court. Since their divorce in 2016, the former power couple has battled over finances, the ownership of their French vineyard, and most importantly, their children. While Jolie currently holds primary custody, Pitt has been granted visitation rights with the younger kids—a status quo Jolie is determined to maintain.

During the interview, Jolie also shared insights about her children’s lives and ambitions, revealing that while some have dabbled in showbiz collaborations—like working behind the scenes on Maria or Vivienne’s recent involvement with The Outsiders Broadway production—none are interested in being in the spotlight. “They’re quite private,” she explained, a preference she deeply respects.

Still, her youngest son, Knox, surprised many by making a rare public appearance at the 2024 Governors Awards, his first red carpet event in three years. Accompanying his mother in a sleek tuxedo, the 16-year-old supported Jolie at the prestigious event, drawing admiration for his poised demeanor. A source close to the actress shared that the moment was particularly special for Jolie, as Knox typically avoids the public eye. “He asked to join her, and she was thrilled,” the insider noted.

However, Pitt reportedly saw the mother-son outing differently. According to an insider, the Fight Club actor felt the appearance was a calculated move to provoke him, further highlighting the tension between the exes. Over the years, Pitt’s relationship with some of his children has grown strained, with several choosing to distance themselves by legally adopting Jolie’s surname.

Through it all, Jolie’s resolve remains unshaken. Her public declarations of devotion to her children send a clear message: no matter the legal battles or personal struggles, her priority will always be her kids. And while the outcome of the custody dispute remains uncertain, Jolie appears unwavering in her role as a fiercely protective mother.