Even though Brad Pitt remains silent about the situation regarding his six kids, it’s become public knowledge their relationship is tense, especially since it was revealed his three daughters dropped his last name earlier this month.

Now, a new report is shedding light on Brad’s relationship with his oldest son, Maddox, and unfortunately, it seems the young adult feels caught in the middle between Brad and Angelina Jolie.

The report says Maddox’s loyalty ultimately lies with his mom and he’s taken on a leading role in their home.

Maddox Allegedly Feels The Need To Protect Angelina

“Maddox was very affected by that incident, and he’s taken it upon himself to be Angelina’s protector,” a source told OK! Magazine, referring to an incident that took place on a private jet involving Brad, Angie, and their kids, which was apparently the catalyst for their divorce.

The situation happened in 2016 prompting Angelina to file for divorce shortly after. She’s alleged that Pitt became verbally and physically abusive towards Angelina and their children. Maddox reportedly interfered in the altercation, making it escalate further.

The allegations prompted an investigation by the FBI and the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services. Both agencies eventually cleared Pitt of any wrongdoing, concluding that there was insufficient evidence to pursue charges.

Despite being cleared, the incident significantly impacted the couple’s relationship and was a pivotal factor in Jolie’s decision to seek a divorce and primary custody. She’s maintained that Pitt had a history of abusive behavior during their relationship, and has used that during their battle for custody over their minor children.

Maddox Is Reportedly Influencing His Younger Siblings

The same source told OK! That Maddox is very influenced by Angelina’s views on Brad, saying it’s also “rubbed off on” his younger siblings, too.

A different source added that his daughter Shiloh’s recent decision to drop the last name Pitt wasn’t just because she allegedly wants to get into the entertainment industry and is concerned about nepotism. It’s also “connected” to Brad’s alleged “abuse history.”

“She [used to be] very close with Brad and his family, but that relationship [changed] in recent years,” the source explained.

Another source added that Brad and Angelina’s youngest kids, twins Vivienne and Knox, are beginning to feel the same way. Vivienne, who’s been collaborating with her mom on a new project and recently walked the red carpet with her in coordinated outfits, has also dropped Brad’s surname.

“They used to have Facetime calls when they were apart and he was much more involved in their lives,” the source said. “The dynamic has shifted.”

Brad’s oldest daughter, Zahara, made headlines for appearing to drop his last name in the fall, when she attended a college event but was only introduced as Zahara Jolie.

Though Brad may not be in a good place with his kids, reports say he’s eager to start a family with his girlfriend Ines De Ramon, so he’s clearly thinking toward the future.