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Brad Pitt, one of the most recognizable faces in the entertainment world, has crafted a career that spans decades and genres. Known for his charm, talent, and versatility, Pitt has earned his place among Hollywood’s elite. Along with being a successful actor, he is a producer, philanthropist, and advocate for various causes.
Early Life and Education
William Bradley Pitt was born on December 18, 1963, in Shawnee, Oklahoma, and raised in Springfield, Missouri. His father, William Alvin Pitt, owned a trucking company, while his mother, Jane Etta, was a school counselor. Pitt grew up in a traditional, conservative household with his two siblings, Doug and Julie.
After graduating from Kickapoo High School, Pitt attended the University of Missouri, majoring in journalism with a focus on advertising. Two weeks before earning his degree, he decided to move to Los Angeles to pursue a career in acting, demonstrating an early fearlessness that would later define his career.
Career Highlights
Pitt’s rise to fame began in the late 1980s with small television roles and supporting parts in films. His breakout role came in 1991 when he played a charming drifter in Thelma & Louise. His brief but impactful performance caught the attention of Hollywood and set the stage for future leading roles.
The 1990s solidified Pitt’s status as a movie star, thanks to critically acclaimed performances in films like A River Runs Through It (1992), Legends of the Fall (1994), and Seven (1995). His role in Twelve Monkeys (1995) earned him his first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, showcasing his range and dedication to challenging roles.
The 2000s saw Pitt branching out into a wide array of roles, from the slick conman Rusty Ryan in the Ocean’s Eleven franchise to his portrayal of the legendary Achilles in Troy (2004). In 2009, his performance in Inglourious Basterds marked his successful collaboration with director Quentin Tarantino, further cementing his place in Hollywood.
Net Worth and Personal Life
As of 2024, Brad Pitt’s net worth is estimated to be around $400 million, making him one of Hollywood’s wealthiest actors. His earnings stem from his film roles, production ventures, and endorsements.
Pitt’s personal life has often been in the spotlight. He was married to Jennifer Aniston from 2000 to 2005, and later to actress Angelina Jolie from 2014 to 2016. He has six children with Angelina, three of them are adopted. Pitt and Jolie’s divorce and custody battle attracted significant media attention, but Pitt has consistently emphasized his commitment to fatherhood.
Advocacy and Philanthropy
Pitt is a passionate philanthropist, supporting various causes over the years. In 2006, he and Jolie founded the Jolie-Pitt Foundation, which has donated millions to humanitarian causes. Following Hurricane Katrina, Pitt launched the Make It Right foundation, an initiative focused on rebuilding homes in New Orleans’ Lower Ninth Ward.
He is also an advocate for environmental sustainability, contributing to numerous green building projects and renewable energy efforts. In addition, Pitt has supported causes like AIDS research, poverty alleviation, and refugee assistance through his foundation and personal donations.
Brad Pitt’s career is a testament to his versatility, persistence, and ability to evolve in an ever-changing industry. With a stellar career spanning more than three decades, his impact on Hollywood is undeniable. As a producer, actor, and philanthropist, Pitt continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of entertainment and beyond.