Angelina Jolie’s adopted son Maddox has come a long way from a Cambodian orphanage to a life of privilege, education, and world travel. Jolie first met Maddox while filming “Tomb Raider” in Cambodia in 2000, where she instantly connected with him.
It was a moment that would change both of their lives forever. Jolie, known for her humanitarian work, visited an orphanage in Cambodia, where Maddox stood out to her.
According to Sarath Mounh, who helped facilitate the adoption, Maddox smiled at Jolie when she entered the orphanage while other children cried—this endearing moment convinced Jolie to adopt him.
However, the adoption wasn’t straightforward. Due to the severe cross-border child trafficking problems in Cambodia at the time, legal obstacles made it difficult for Jolie to complete the adoption process.
Sarath Mounh, who runs a non-governmental organization in Cambodia, stepped in to help. He temporarily adopted Maddox as his child and legally transferred him to Jolie, allowing her to take him back to the United States.
Jolie’s bond with Maddox grew over the years as they traveled the world, participated in volunteer activities, and experienced Hollywood’s ups and downs together. She does not consider Maddox just an adopted child; she sees him as her son.
Returning to Cambodia in 2017 for the premiere of her movie “First They Killed My Father,” Jolie spoke about her deep connection with the country and her gratitude to have Maddox by her side. He has always been her constant companion and support system, especially during her publicized divorce from Brad Pitt.
In one incident, during a heated argument between Jolie and Pitt on a flight from France to Los Angeles, Maddox stood up to protect his mother, leading to a significant rift between him and his adoptive father.
Despite the challenges, Maddox continues to thrive. He currently attends Yonsei University in South Korea, one of the top universities in the country.
As Jolie’s first child, Maddox holds a special place in her heart, and she credits him with helping her transition from a rebellious lifestyle to one filled with compassion and responsibility.
The story of Angelina Jolie and Maddox is now part of a documentary called “The Stolen Children,” which explores adoption practices in Cambodia during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
This new film aims to illuminate the challenges and complexities surrounding international adoptions.
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