Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise, Barack Obama: Celebs' kids who dropped their famous last name

In a world where a last name can define a person’s entire life, these famous stars saw their children going the legal way to drop their famous last names. Whether Hollywood or politics, a famous last name can open doors and bring instant recognition, but for these young kids, it didn't stop from seeking out a new identity to carve their own paths. From Brad Pitt's daughter Shiloh Jolie to Tom Cruise's teen daughter Suri Noelle and others, here's a list of celebrity kids who made the bold decision to distance themselves from their famous last names.

Shiloh Jolie-Pitt, the first biological child of former Hollywood power couple Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, grew up under intense media scrutiny. Known for her spitting resemblance to both her parents, Shiloh has always stood out. Recently, amidst Angelina and Brad's divorce battle, she was granted permission by the court to drop her father's last name and reportedly opted to go by the name 'Shiloh Jolie'.

The daughter of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, Suri Cruise also made waves last month when she reportedly decided to drop her famous last name and reportedly adopt her mom's middle name and go by 'Suri Noelle'. Since Tom and Katie's divorce, reports claim that the teen has slowly become estranged from her superstar dad.

As the daughter of former US President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, Malia Obama’s life has been anything but ordinary. Growing up in the White House, she was one of the most famous teenagers in the US. However, as she transitioned into adulthood, Malia decided to use the name Malia Ann, opting for a more private and personal identity.

One of the most famous name changes in Hollywood history is that of Angelina Jolie. Born Angelina Jolie Voight, the actress had a tumultuous relationship with her father, actor Jon Voight. Estranged for much of her life, Jolie sought to distance herself from her father’s influence and the public association with his name. She petitioned to have her surname legally changed to Jolie, her middle name, and the change was granted on September 12, 2002.

Willow Smith, the daughter of Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, is another celebrity kid who chose to drop her famous last name. The singer, along with her brother Jaden, ditched their surnames as they began their professional music careers. This decision was reportedly fuelled by their desire to be recognized for their own work and talents rather than their family’s legacy.

Although not a child of a contemporary celebrity, Nicolas Cage decided to drop his family name before entering Hollywood. Born Nicolas Coppola, the actor is the nephew of acclaimed director Francis Ford Coppola. He changed his last name to Cage early in his career to avoid nepotism and to create his own identity in the film industry. The name “Cage” was inspired by the Marvel comic book character Luke Cage.