Brad Pitt, the 62-year-old Hollywood actor, has disclosed in a recent interview with Esquire that he has resumed drinking alcohol after a seven-year period of sobriety. While Pitt described his current consumption as “moderate” and “professional,” reports from individuals close to his former wife, Angelina Jolie, indicate that she remains unsurprised by the news, citing long-standing concerns regarding the actor’s personal challenges.
Brad Pitt’s Return to Alcohol and “Professional” Drinking
In his conversation with Esquire, Pitt acknowledged that his path to sobriety had hit a turning point. “For seven years I was sober, and then I started drinking again,” the actor stated. He characterized his current habits as controlled, noting that he avoids consuming large quantities. “I can have a few. But I can’t have a lot. I have to approach it professionally,” Pitt explained. The actor also reflected on the value of clear mornings, suggesting that heavy drinking interfered with his ability to appreciate the start of the day.
Angelina Jolie’s Reaction to the Disclosure
According to an individual close to the actress who spoke with Rob Shuter, author of Naughty But Nice, Jolie was not shocked by the revelation. Sources reported by Pudelek and Masio suggest that Jolie had long suspected that sobriety alone would not resolve the deeper issues the actor faced. The consensus from her camp is that she believes Pitt’s nature remains unchanged, viewing his recent attempts at lifestyle adjustments as superficial.
Did you know?
Before his recent admission, Brad Pitt spoke in 2017 to GQ about his past struggle with alcohol, admitting that he once prided himself on his ability to out-drink others before seeking help through Alcoholics Anonymous.
Context of the Long-Running Personal Conflict
The issue of alcohol has served as a recurring theme in the former couple’s documented history. Their relationship reached a breaking point in September 2016 during a private flight from France to Los Angeles. Angelina Jolie alleged that Pitt was intoxicated and behaved aggressively toward her and their children. While an FBI investigation into the incident was closed without criminal charges, the event marked the beginning of a legal battle that concluded in December 2024.
The fallout from these years of litigation has had a visible impact on the family dynamic. Reports indicate that most of the couple’s children—Maddox, Zahara, Shiloh, Knox, and Vivienne—have taken formal steps to remove Pitt’s surname from their own, signaling a significant rift in the family unit.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long was Brad Pitt sober?
According to his interview with Esquire, Pitt maintained seven years of sobriety before choosing to resume drinking in moderation. - What was the incident in 2016?
Jolie alleged that during a flight from France to Los Angeles, an intoxicated Pitt was physically abusive toward her and their children. Pitt has denied these allegations. - Did the children change their names?
Yes, sources report that Maddox, Zahara, Shiloh, Knox, and Vivienne have taken legal steps to drop Pitt’s surname.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, professional support is available. In Poland, you can contact the National Addiction Helpline at 800-199-990 or the Blue Line for victims of domestic violence at 800-120-002.
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