‘I’ve learned to let go’: Angelina Jolie reflects on moving beyond the past after divorce from Brad Pitt

Angelina Jolie is entering a new phase of her life with renewed purpose after officially finalising her divorce from Brad Pitt in December 2024, bringing an end to one of Hollywood’s longest and most closely followed legal battles.

After years of courtroom proceedings, the Academy Award-winning actress is now focusing on raising her children, expanding her acting career and preparing for what she has described as a fresh start away from Los Angeles.

Looking beyond the past

Jolie has previously spoken about how difficult it can be to move forward while holding onto painful memories.

In an interview with Cosmopolitan in 2003, she shared a reflection that continues to resonate today.”It’s hard to be clear about who you are when you are carrying around a bunch of baggage from the past. I’ve learned to let go and move more quickly into the next place.”

The quote has gained renewed attention as the actress begins rebuilding her life after the conclusion of her divorce proceedings.

Ready for a new beginning

Following the settlement with Brad Pitt, Jolie has reportedly been planning a life outside Los Angeles, where much of the lengthy legal dispute unfolded.

Speaking previously about the city, she acknowledged that it remained home because of her responsibilities as a parent but suggested she hopes to relocate once her younger children become adults.

The move is expected to mark a symbolic fresh start after years dominated by legal proceedings and public scrutiny.

A life shaped by resilience

Born on June 4, 1975, in Los Angeles, Angelina Jolie was largely raised by her mother, Marcheline Bertrand, following her parents’ separation.

Her mother’s death in 2007 had a profound impact on Jolie, influencing both her personal decisions and humanitarian work.

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Jolie established herself as one of Hollywood’s most respected performers with acclaimed roles in films such as Gia and Girl, Interrupted, the latter earning her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.

Beyond cinema, she has also been recognised globally for her humanitarian efforts, serving as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador and later as a Special Envoy, advocating for refugees and displaced communities around the world.

New projects on the horizon

Professionally, Jolie continues to remain active with several major projects.

Her latest film, Couture, released earlier this year, features her in a story set against the backdrop of the international fashion industry.

She is also attached to upcoming productions including the espionage thriller The Initiative and Maleficent 3, where she is expected to reprise her iconic role as the powerful fairy.

These projects reflect her continued commitment to balancing creative ambitions with her role as a mother.

A new chapter at 50

Now at 50, Angelina Jolie appears focused on building a future defined by personal growth rather than past hardships.

Her reflections on letting go have become increasingly meaningful as she embraces new opportunities, proving that resilience often comes from accepting change and moving forward with clarity.

For Jolie, the next chapter is no longer about revisiting the past—but creating a future on her own terms.