Brad Pitt has revealed that he faced suicidal thoughts stemming from ongoing family issues. In a candid interview with Esquire, the 62-year-old actor shared the depths of his struggles and the emotional pain he has experienced.
Family Issues and Emotional Struggles
Pitt revealed, “I just couldn’t — just didn’t see a way out. The pain was so oppressive that — I wasn’t going to act on this, but I could feel — I could feel the cold steel of the bullet in my head, and it felt like relief.” He elaborated that this sentiment led him to understand the mindset behind suicide as a means of escaping pain, but he ultimately credited his survival instincts for pulling him back from that brink.
Long-Running Disputes
Although Pitt did not delve into specifics about the family issues that haunts him, he acknowledged that they are tied to his tumultuous relationship with ex-wife Angelina Jolie. Their long-standing conflict began after a 2016 incident during a flight from France to Los Angeles, where Jolie accused Pitt of being verbally and physically aggressive. Following the altercation, Pitt’s relationship with several of their children has soured, with some even taking legal steps to disassociate from him.
Turning Points and Recovery
The fallout from the flight incident prompted Pitt to give up drinking altogether, a decision he maintained for seven years. However, he later revealed to Esquire that he had since “gone off the wagon” but does now approach alcohol with moderation. “I can have a few [glasses of wine],” he stated, “but I can’t have a lot. I have to be professional about it,” indicating a conscious effort to manage his habits responsibly.
Experiencing such intense emotional challenges can be devastating. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Dial 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org to connect with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. For LGBTQ+ youth, the Trevor Project provides resources at 1-866-488-7386. Additional international suicide helplines can be found at Befrienders Worldwide (befrienders.org).
