Hollywood star Brad Pitt may be known worldwide for his acting chops and red-carpet charm, but behind the fame was a grounded, private man deeply connected to his roots—especially his mother, Jane Etta Pitt. Following her passing at the age of 84, many are reflecting on the touching relationship the actor shared with his late mother, who remained his emotional anchor throughout his rise to stardom.
A Midwestern Upbringing That Shaped Them Both
Born in Shawnee, Oklahoma, and raised in Springfield, Missouri, Brad Pitt grew up in a devout, conservative Baptist household. His mother, Jane Etta Pitt (née Hillhouse), worked as a school counselor and was deeply involved in her community and church. Known for her warmth and strength, Jane instilled values of kindness, humility, and resilience in Brad from a young age—qualities that remained with him even as he took on the glitz of Hollywood.
Despite his fame, Brad frequently spoke about how much his upbringing and his mother’s influence kept him grounded. She encouraged his early interests, supported his ambitions, and provided a steady moral compass that guided him through life’s turbulence.
A Pillar of Support on the Red Carpet and Beyond
While Jane and her husband William largely stayed out of the spotlight, they occasionally joined Brad at high-profile events, showcasing their close bond. In 2012, Jane and William accompanied Brad to the Academy Awards, a proud moment for the family. They also attended the 2014 premiere of Unbroken, directed by Brad’s then-wife Angelina Jolie, alongside their grandchildren. These appearances highlighted Jane’s role as a supportive figure in Brad’s glittering career.
In June 2025, during a special screening of his film F1, Brad gave a heartfelt shout-out to Jane on the Today show, saying, “I gotta say hi to my mom because she watches you every morning. To Jane Pitt. Love you, Mom.” This public gesture underscored the affection and admiration he held for her, even amidst his busy Hollywood schedule.
Jane’s Influence on Brad’s Philanthropy
Jane’s legacy of kindness and compassion profoundly shaped Brad and his siblings. In 2009, the Pitt siblings—Brad, Doug, and Julie—donated $1 million to a Missouri hospital, establishing the Jane Pitt Pediatric Cancer Center. This wing, named in honor of their mother, brought the region’s first pediatric oncologist and hematologist to southwest Missouri, reflecting Jane’s commitment to helping others.
Jane expressed immense pride in her children’s philanthropic efforts in a 2018 interview with WorldServe International, stating, “I’m very proud of all my children. They see a need and try to step in and fill it.” Brad’s work in rebuilding New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, Doug’s initiatives in Tanzania, and Julie’s efforts in Ethiopia all mirrored Jane’s values of selflessness and community service.
