The filming of "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider" triggered a profound shift in Angelina Jolie's perspective. As she was ensconced in Cambodia amidst the sets, the plight of refugees and displaced people ceaselessly haunted her. It was this stark reality that led to her life-altering decision to adopt a child on her own. The seven-month-old Cambodian boy named Maddox Chivan became her first adopted kid.
Little Maddox developed a fascination with Africa and was persistent in requesting an African sibling from his iconic mother. Heeding her son's heartfelt appeal, Jolie, accompanied by her boy, journeyed to an Ethiopian orphanage.
The 4-year-old Maddox, demonstrating a pearl of wisdom beyond his years, laid his eyes on six-month-old Zahara Marley, an orphan bereft of her parents due to AIDS, and discerned, "She needed care." With that profound connection, Zahara became a cherished part of Jolie's life in July 2005.
As the adoption process for the children unfolded, another major chapter in Jolie's life was commencing—her romance with the soon-to-be father of her biological children, Brad Pitt. The actor graciously embraced Maddox and Zahara, formally adopting the young ones. Fast forward to 2007, the duo, renowned for their on-screen chemistry in "Mr. & Mrs. Smith," welcomed another addition, Pax Thien, a boy from Vietnam, further enriching their globally diverse family unit.
Nevertheless, the picture wasn't entirely rosy. Mere hours after six-year-old Zahara set foot into her new home, the "Gia" actress sensed something unsettling about her child. Zahara, who tipped the scales at a meager 9 pounds, was promptly brought for a medical consultation.
A chilling realization dawned upon Jolie as she was informed that her daughter had been undernourished from birth and was suffering from a bacterial infection. Determined, Jolie remained steadfast at her daughter's side in a New York City hospital, anxiously awaiting a precise diagnosis.
It wasn't long before the doctors revealed that Zahara was battling salmonella, a condition that “kills literally hordes of babies and children.” Yet, the love of a mother combined with expert medical care worked wonders. The tiny tot overcame her problems, soon leaving the hospital, beaming with newfound health.
This period was undeniably strenuous for the "Changeling" actress. Her friend reflected on this time, saying:
Zahara's history of orphanhood, coupled with her incredible battle for survival, profoundly impacted the star and only served to deepen her love and dedication to her adopted daughter. Zahara has been a genuine source of "camaraderie" for her mother, and to this day, maintains a closeness with Jolie that distinguishes her from her siblings.
In a thrilling start to 2006, Jolie dropped the news — she and Pitt were set to welcome their first biological child together. The actress kept it concise, stating, "Yes, I'm pregnant." Meanwhile, the "Fight Club" actor was brimming with anticipation, eager to meet their little bundle of joy following years of longing for a child.
On a serene Saturday, May 27, 2006, they greeted the arrival of their darling daughter, Shiloh Nouvel Jolie-Pitt. In what was an incredibly special moment, Pitt stood firm by Jolie's side throughout the labor, ensuring both mother and baby were in top form.
From the first days, Jolie noticed that Shiloh was a mini copy of her dad. The actress confessed that the girl's resemblance to her father significantly distinguished her from her adopted siblings. As such, the famous mother believed Shiloh would stand out, stating
When posed the question of whether she was happy having Shiloh, Jolie responded that she did not wish to elevate her biological child over her adopted children. She expressed that seeing Shiloh for the first time post-birth was a "lovely" moment, indeed, but it didn't quite parallel the emotionally charged experience of first meeting Zahara.
After all these years, Jolie remains deeply connected to Zahara, her only adopted daughter who has matured into a young lady of 18. The two were recently seen leaving The Greenwich Hotel in New York on May 19, 2023.
The Hollywood mother was a vision in a sheer white dress. Her ensemble was stylishly completed with black glasses, delicate gold bracelets, and an oversized white bag. Zahara, dressed in a black top and pants with a cozy brown cardigan thrown over, was the epitome of casual chic. Her outfit was rounded off with white sneakers and an eye-catching orange bag while she clutched a beverage.
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