Angelina Jolie is one of the most renowned and multifaceted talents in Hollywood. Widely recognised for her remarkable acting prowess, she has also made significant contributions as a director, humanitarian, and philanthropist. This comprehensive biography delves into her early life, rise to fame, notable performances, humanitarian efforts, personal life, and recent projects.
Table of Contents
Early Life and Family Background
Angelina Jolie Voight was born on June 4, 1975, in Los Angeles, California. She is the daughter of actors Jon Voight and Marcheline Bertrand, which placed her at the epicentre of the entertainment world from a very young age. Her parents’ separation when she was a toddler led to a complex family dynamic, with Jolie and her brother, James Haven, largely raised by their mother.
Growing up in Los Angeles, Jolie was exposed to both the glamour and the challenges of Hollywood. Despite the advantages of her family’s connections, her childhood was marked by a sense of isolation and self-doubt. She attended Beverly Hills High School, where she often felt out of place among her more affluent peers.
Jolie’s early years were also filled with aspirations and dreams of becoming an actress, much like her parents. She enrolled at the Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute at the age of 11, where she began her formal training in acting. This early exposure to professional acting techniques laid the foundation for her future career.
Her relationship with her father, Jon Voight, was strained for many years, partly due to his infidelity and the impact it had on her family. Despite these challenges, Jolie maintained a deep connection with her mother, who supported her acting ambitions and served as a source of inspiration.
As a teenager, Jolie struggled with various personal issues, including self-harm and an eating disorder. These experiences shaped her later advocacy for mental health awareness and her empathetic approach to humanitarian work.
Jolie’s unique appearance and compelling presence made her a natural fit for modelling, which she pursued briefly before fully committing to acting. Her early forays into the world of entertainment included music videos and minor film roles, which helped her gain valuable experience in front of the camera.
Her family background, marked by both privilege and adversity, played a significant role in shaping Jolie’s character and career. The dichotomy of her upbringing instilled in her a deep sense of resilience and a desire to make a meaningful impact on the world.
The loss of her mother to ovarian cancer in 2007 was a profound turning point in Jolie’s life. This personal tragedy deepened her commitment to her humanitarian work and influenced her decisions regarding her own health, including her highly publicised preventive surgeries.
Jolie’s early life and family background provide a glimpse into the formative experiences that influenced her journey to stardom. From the challenges of her childhood to the support of her mother, these factors played a crucial role in shaping the woman who would become an international icon.
Rise to Fame: Breakthrough Roles
Angelina Jolie’s ascent to fame was marked by a series of breakthrough roles that showcased her exceptional talent and versatility as an actress. Her early work in independent films and television set the stage for her eventual rise to Hollywood stardom.
One of Jolie’s first significant roles was in the 1998 HBO film “Gia,” where she portrayed the life of supermodel Gia Carangi. Her raw and intense performance earned her critical acclaim and her first Golden Globe Award. This role highlighted her ability to delve deeply into complex characters and brought her to the attention of industry insiders.
In 1999, Jolie’s career took a major leap forward with her role as Lisa Rowe in “Girl, Interrupted.” Her portrayal of the rebellious and troubled patient in a psychiatric hospital garnered widespread praise and earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. This role solidified her reputation as a formidable talent in Hollywood.
Jolie’s versatility was further demonstrated in the 2000 action film “Gone in 60 Seconds,” where she starred alongside Nicolas Cage. Her role as a skilled car thief showcased her ability to excel in action-packed and physically demanding roles, expanding her appeal to a broader audience.
In 2001, Jolie took on the iconic role of Lara Croft in “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider.” This film was a commercial success and established her as a major action star. Her portrayal of the adventurous archaeologist not only delighted fans of the video game series but also cemented her status as a bankable leading lady.
Jolie continued to build on her action star persona with roles in films like “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” (2005), where she starred opposite Brad Pitt. The film’s success at the box office and the chemistry between the lead actors further propelled Jolie into the spotlight. It was during the filming of this movie that Jolie and Pitt’s relationship began, becoming one of Hollywood’s most talked-about romances.
In 2007, Jolie took on the challenging role of Marianne Pearl in “A Mighty Heart,” a film based on the true story of journalist Daniel Pearl’s kidnapping and murder. Her portrayal of Marianne earned critical acclaim and demonstrated her ability to handle emotionally charged and socially significant roles.
Jolie’s commitment to her craft was evident in her role as Christine Collins in the 2008 film “Changeling,” directed by Clint Eastwood. Her compelling performance as a mother searching for her missing son earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. This role showcased her ability to convey deep emotional resonance and further solidified her status as a top-tier actress.
In 2010, Jolie took on the lead role in the spy thriller “Salt,” displaying her action star prowess once again. Her performance as a CIA officer accused of being a Russian spy was praised for its intensity and physicality, proving her enduring appeal in action-oriented roles.
Jolie’s versatility extended to voice acting, as seen in her role as Tigress in the animated film series “Kung Fu Panda.” Her distinctive voice brought the character to life, contributing to the franchise’s success and showcasing her ability to excel in various genres.
Throughout her rise to fame, Jolie’s choice of diverse and challenging roles demonstrated her dedication to her craft and her willingness to take risks. Her early breakthrough performances set the stage for a career marked by both critical acclaim and commercial success.
Award-Winning Performances and Accolades
Angelina Jolie’s career is distinguished by a plethora of awards and accolades that underscore her talent and dedication to her craft. Her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters has earned her recognition from some of the most prestigious institutions in the film industry.
Jolie’s first major award came with her role in the HBO film “Gia” (1998), where she received the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Miniseries or Television Film. This accolade was a testament to her compelling portrayal of the troubled supermodel Gia Carangi, and it marked the beginning of a series of award-winning performances.
Her role in “Girl, Interrupted” (1999) brought Jolie widespread acclaim and her first Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. This performance, characterised by its raw intensity and emotional depth, showcased her ability to dominate the screen even in a supporting role. The film also earned her a Screen Actors Guild Award and another Golden Globe.
In 2007, Jolie received significant praise for her portrayal of Marianne Pearl in “A Mighty Heart.” Although she didn’t win an Oscar for this role, her performance was lauded by critics and earned her nominations from various organisations, including the Golden Globe Awards and the Screen Actors Guild Awards.
Jolie’s role in “Changeling” (2008) further solidified her standing as one of Hollywood’s leading actresses. Directed by Clint Eastwood, the film earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. This role, steeped in emotional complexity, was also recognised by the Golden Globes, the BAFTA Awards, and the Screen Actors Guild Awards.
In addition to her acting awards, Jolie has received several accolades for her humanitarian work. She was honoured with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award at the 2013 Governors Awards, recognising her extensive efforts to promote human rights and social justice. This award highlighted her dual impact as both an artist and a humanitarian.
Jolie’s contributions to the film industry have also been recognised with various lifetime achievement awards. In 2012, she received the Stanley Kramer Award from the Producers Guild of America, which honours individuals or groups whose work demonstrates a commitment to social issues. This award reflected her commitment to using her platform for positive change.
Her directorial work has also garnered attention. Her film “In the Land of Blood and Honey” (2011) earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. This accomplishment showcased her ability to excel not only in front of the camera but also behind it.
Jolie’s voice acting in the “Kung Fu Panda” series has earned her accolades as well. The franchise’s success has been partly attributed to her compelling voice performance as Tigress, further exemplifying her versatility as an actress.
In 2020, Jolie received the Motion Picture Sound Editors’ Golden Reel Award for her work in both acting and directing. This recognition highlighted her multifaceted contributions to the film industry and her ongoing impact on various aspects of filmmaking.
The numerous awards and accolades that Jolie has garnered throughout her career are a testament to her exceptional talent, versatility, and commitment to both her craft and her humanitarian efforts. Her achievements continue to inspire and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.
Humanitarian Efforts and Philanthropy
Beyond her illustrious career in Hollywood, Angelina Jolie is equally renowned for her extensive humanitarian efforts and philanthropy. Her commitment to social justice and human rights has made her a prominent figure in global humanitarian circles.
Jolie’s humanitarian journey began in 2001 when she was appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Her first field mission took her to Sierra Leone and Tanzania, where she witnessed the harsh realities faced by refugees. This experience was transformative and solidified her commitment to advocating for displaced people.
In her role as a Goodwill Ambassador, Jolie has undertaken numerous field missions to some of the most conflict-ridden regions in the world, including Afghanistan, Sudan, and Iraq. Her efforts have brought global attention to the plight of refugees and internally displaced persons, helping to raise awareness and mobilise resources for their aid.
Jolie’s dedication to humanitarian work led her to establish the Maddox Jolie-Pitt Foundation in 2003, named after her adopted son Maddox. The foundation focuses on conservation, community development, and education in Cambodia, reflecting her commitment to sustainable development and improving the lives of vulnerable communities.
In 2012, Jolie was appointed as a Special Envoy to the UNHCR, a role that expanded her responsibilities and allowed her to engage in high-level advocacy and diplomacy. Her work in this capacity has included addressing the United Nations and meeting with world leaders to discuss solutions for the global refugee crisis.
Jolie’s philanthropic efforts extend beyond her work with the UNHCR. She has been a vocal advocate for various causes, including education, women’s rights, and healthcare. Her support for the Malala Fund, which promotes girls’ education worldwide, and her funding of schools for refugee girls in Kenya and Afghanistan exemplify her commitment to education.
In 2005, Jolie and her then-partner Brad Pitt established the Jolie-Pitt Foundation, which supports numerous charitable organisations worldwide. The foundation has made significant contributions to disaster relief efforts, including aid for victims of Hurricane Katrina and the 2010 Haiti earthquake.
Jolie’s advocacy for women’s rights has been a central focus of her humanitarian work. She has campaigned against sexual violence in conflict zones and has worked to promote legislative changes to protect women and children. Her efforts led to the launch of the Preventing Sexual Violence Initiative (PSVI) in 2012, in collaboration with the British government.
In recognition of her humanitarian efforts, Jolie has received several awards, including the Global Humanitarian Action Award from the United Nations Association of the USA in 2005 and the Freedom Award from the International Rescue Committee in 2007. These accolades underscore her significant contributions to global humanitarian causes.
Jolie’s commitment to philanthropy and humanitarian work is driven by her belief in the power of individual action to effect change. Her efforts have not only provided direct aid to those in need but have also inspired others to join the cause and work towards a more just and compassionate world.
Through her extensive humanitarian work and philanthropy, Angelina Jolie has demonstrated that her impact extends far beyond the silver screen. Her dedication to advocating for the marginalised and vulnerable has made a lasting difference in the lives of countless individuals worldwide.
Personal Life: Relationships and Family
Angelina Jolie’s personal life has been a subject of immense public interest, marked by high-profile relationships, family dynamics, and her role as a mother to a diverse brood of children. Her personal experiences have often intertwined with her professional and humanitarian pursuits.
Jolie’s first marriage was to British actor Jonny Lee Miller, whom she met while filming “Hackers” (1995). The couple married in 1996 but separated the following year, finalising their divorce in 1999. Despite their brief marriage, Jolie and Miller have remained on good terms over the years.
In 2000, Jolie married actor Billy Bob Thornton, a union that garnered significant media attention due to their eccentric public displays of affection, including wearing vials of each other’s blood. Their marriage lasted until 2003, with both parties acknowledging that their intense connection had eventually faded.
Jolie’s most high-profile relationship began in 2005 when she met Brad Pitt on the set of “Mr. & Mrs. Smith.” The couple, often referred to as “Brangelina,” became one of Hollywood’s most famous pairs. Their relationship evolved amidst media speculation and scrutiny, culminating in their marriage in 2014.
Together, Jolie and Pitt have six children, three of whom are adopted: Maddox from Cambodia, Zahara from Ethiopia, and Pax from Vietnam. Their biological children are Shiloh, and twins Knox and Vivienne. The couple’s commitment to creating a multicultural family has been a defining aspect of their personal lives.
Jolie’s role as a mother has been central to her identity and has influenced many of her personal and professional decisions. She has spoken openly about the joys and challenges of parenting and has emphasised the importance of nurturing her children’s cultural backgrounds and identities.
In 2016, Jolie filed for divorce from Pitt, citing irreconcilable differences. The ensuing legal battles over custody and financial arrangements were widely covered by the media, casting a spotlight on the complexities of their high-profile split. Despite the public nature of their divorce, both Jolie and Pitt have expressed a commitment to co-parenting their children amicably.
Jolie’s health has also been a significant aspect of her personal life. In 2013, she underwent a preventive double mastectomy after discovering she carried the BRCA1 gene, which significantly increased her risk of breast and ovarian cancer. In 2015, she had her ovaries and fallopian tubes removed to further reduce her cancer risk. Jolie’s openness about her health decisions has been praised for raising awareness about genetic testing and preventive healthcare.
In addition to her relationships and role as a mother, Jolie’s personal life has been shaped by her close bond with her late mother, Marcheline Bertrand. Bertrand’s influence and support were instrumental in Jolie’s career and personal development. Jolie has often cited her mother as a source of inspiration for her humanitarian work and parenting style.
Jolie’s personal experiences, including her relationships, health decisions, and role as a mother, have significantly influenced her public persona and philanthropic endeavours. Despite the challenges and scrutiny that come with her high-profile life, she has remained dedicated to her family and her mission to make a positive impact on the world.
Recent Projects and Future Endeavours
In recent years, Angelina Jolie has continued to expand her artistic and humanitarian horizons, taking on diverse projects that reflect her multifaceted talents and commitments. Her recent endeavours demonstrate her ongoing influence in both the entertainment industry and global humanitarian efforts.
Jolie returned to the screen in 2019 with the highly anticipated sequel “Maleficent: Mistress of Evil,” reprising her role as the iconic dark fairy. The film was a commercial success and further solidified her status as a leading actress in fantasy and family films. Her portrayal of Maleficent continued to captivate audiences and showcased her ability to bring depth to complex characters.
In 2020, Jolie starred in the drama “Those Who Wish Me Dead,” directed by Taylor Sheridan. The film, a thriller set against the backdrop of a forest fire, featured Jolie in a physically demanding role as a smokejumper tasked with protecting a young boy. Her performance was praised for its intensity and emotional depth, reaffirming her versatility as an actress.
Jolie has also continued her work as a director and producer. Her film “First They Killed My Father” (2017), based on the memoir of Cambodian author and human rights activist Loung Ung, received critical acclaim for its powerful depiction of the Khmer Rouge regime. The film was nominated for a BAFTA Award for Best Film Not in the English Language and highlighted Jolie’s ability to tackle difficult and important subjects.
In addition to her film projects, Jolie has been involved in various humanitarian initiatives. She continues to serve as a Special Envoy for the UNHCR, advocating for the rights of refugees and displaced persons. Her efforts have included addressing the United Nations on issues related to international law and human rights, reinforcing her role as a prominent global advocate.
Jolie’s commitment to education and women’s rights remains a central focus of her philanthropic work. She has supported initiatives aimed at providing educational opportunities for girls in conflict zones and has campaigned against gender-based violence. Her advocacy work has taken her to various countries, including Venezuela and Colombia, where she has met with refugees and local leaders to discuss solutions to humanitarian crises.
Looking to the future, Jolie has several projects in the pipeline that reflect her diverse interests and talents. She is set to star in Marvel Studios’ “Eternals,” a film that explores a new group of superheroes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This role marks her entry into the superhero genre and is highly anticipated by fans and critics alike.
Jolie is also involved in developing and producing new film projects that address social issues and historical events. Her dedication to telling meaningful stories through cinema continues to drive her work, both in front of and behind the camera.
In addition to her entertainment and humanitarian efforts, Jolie remains committed to her family. She is focused on providing a stable and nurturing environment for her children, balancing her professional responsibilities with her role as a mother. Her ability to navigate these dual roles has been a defining aspect of her recent years.
As Angelina Jolie continues to evolve as an artist, advocate, and mother, her influence shows no signs of waning. Her recent projects and future endeavours reflect a commitment to excellence and a desire to make a positive impact on the world, both through her creative work and her humanitarian efforts.
Angelina Jolie’s journey from Hollywood royalty to international humanitarian is a testament to her resilience, talent, and unwavering commitment to making a difference. Her multifaceted career, marked by award-winning performances, directorial achievements, and extensive philanthropic efforts, has solidified her status as an icon in both the entertainment industry and global humanitarian circles. As she continues to take on new challenges and advocate for those in need, Jolie’s legacy as a trailblazer and compassionate human being remains firmly intact. Her story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the profound impact one individual can have on both art and the world at large.
