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.

Angelina Jolie and son Maddox in New York City on May 02, 2003 | Source: Getty Images

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.

Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, and children Zahara and Maddox at the seafront promenade in Mumbai on November 12, 2006 | Source: Getty Images

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.

Zahara’s Battle with a Life-Threatening Illness and A Mother’s Devotion to Her

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.

Angelina Jolie and daughter Zahara at Saks Fifth Avenue in New York City on August 12, 2005 | Source: Getty Images

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.

Brad Pitt and daughter Zahara at Narita International Airport in Tokyo on November 27, 2005 | Source: Getty Images

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.

Angelina Jolie and daughter Zahara in Timeless Toys in Chicago on August 9, 2007 | Source: Getty Images

This period was undeniably strenuous for the “Changeling” actress. Her friend reflected on this time, saying:

“She was there 24 hours a day, keeping watch. She kept saying how much she admired her baby.”

Zahara Jolie-Pitt at a playground in New York City on August 26, 2007 | Source: Getty Images

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.

Angelina Jolie Believed Her Biological Daughter Shiloh Would Be the Family “Outcast”

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.

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt at the 61st Cannes International Film Festival on May 15, 2008 | Source: Getty Images

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

“She’s almost going to be the outcast in the family because she’s blonde and blue-eyed.”

Angelina Jolie and children Shiloh, Zahara, and Pax at the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana on October 6, 2008 | Source: Getty Images

In addition, Jolie overcame the fact that she would be happy not to have a biological child. Only Pitt’s deep love for Zahara and her brothers assured her that Shiloh would never pose a “threat” to the harmonious family dynamic.

Brad Pitt and daughter Zahara at Central Park in New York City on August 28, 2007 | Source: Getty Images

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.

Angelina Jolie and daughter Shiloh in New York City on June 16, 2007 | Source: Getty Images

In a candid admission, the “Maleficent” star confided that her emotional connection with Zahara and her brothers ran deeper than the bond she shared with her biological child. She confessed:

“I felt so much more for Madd, Zahara, and Pax because they were survivors. Shiloh seemed so privileged from the moment she was born.”

Angelina Jolie and daughters Zahara and Shiloh at LAX Airport in Los Angeles, California on September 18, 2010 | Source: Getty Images

But she was quick to add that she strives not to ignore Shiloh’s needs, while still recognizing that her adopted children, Zahara, Maddox, and Pax, are “more vulnerable.”

Angelina Jolie Seen with Grown 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.

During their short walk to their waiting car, Jolie held her daughter’s hand in a touching display of maternal affection. Upon reaching the vehicle, she assisted Zahara in getting inside before climbing in herself, ready to embark on their day’s agenda.