They’ve always been uber-supportive of each other, and Brad Pitt couldn’t be more proud of his longtime partner Angelina Jolie for sharing the details of her recent double mastectomy.

While chatting with USA Today, the “World War Z” stud confessed that he’s “quite emotional” about the whole process.

“She could have stayed absolutely private about it and I don’t think anyone would have been none the wiser with such good results. But it was really important to her to share the story and that others would understand it doesn’t have to be a scary thing.”

Brad added, “In fact, it can be an empowering thing, and something that makes you stronger and us stronger.”

Following the surgery, Brad pointed out, Angelina traveled to the Congo, London, and New York City for various duties. “This was during Stage 2 (when the double mastectomy was performed). Literally it was just weeks after she’d had truly major surgery.”

“It’s been an emotional and beautifully inspiring few months. It’s such a wonderful relief to come through this and not have a specter hanging over our heads… that that’s not going to be something that’s going to affect us. My most proudest thing is our family. This isn’t going to get that.”