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Brad Pitt Issues New Statement, Cancels Red Carpet Appearance

The actor cancelled his first appearance since the divorce news.

Brad Pitt is putting his private life first.

The actor, who is in the middle of divorce proceedings from estranged wife Angelina Jolie, released a statement confirming that he would not be attending the red carpet premiere of his new film, "Voyage of Time," so he could focus on his family.

"Terence's 'Voyage of Time' is an incredibly beautiful and unique experimental IMAX film for children and families chronicling the birth of time," the 52-year-old actor said. "I'm very grateful to be a part of such a fascinating and educational project, but I'm currently focused on my family situation and don't want to distract attention away from this extraordinary film, which I encourage everyone to see."

The "By The Sea" star was supposed to attend a screening of the documentary on Wednesday. Pitt worked with the film's director, Terrence Malick, on the 2011 film "The Tree of Life," co-starring Jessica Chastain and Sean Penn.

News broke last week that Jolie filed for divorce from her husband of two years (and partner of 12) on Sept. 19, citing irreconcilable differences.

The "Maleficent" actress is asking for physical custody of the couple's six children and for Pitt to get joint legal custody. The divorce documents also note Jolie is asking for "miscellaneous jewelry and other personal effects," among other assets.

TMZ reports Pitt will fight for physical joint custody of Maddox, Zahara, Shiloh, Pax, Knox and Vivienne.

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt in November, 2015.

"Angelina will always do what's in the best interest of taking care of her family," Jolie's manager Geyer Kosinski told E! News. "She appreciates everyone's understanding of their need for privacy at this time."

Pitt also released a statement to People regarding the divorce: "I am very saddened by this, but what matters most now is the well-being of our kids," he said. "I kindly ask the press to give them the space they deserve during this challenging time."

The former couple married in a private ceremony at their chateaux in France on August 23, 2014. Jolie listed their separation date as Sept. 15.

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