,type=downsize)
Earlier reports revealed that Hollywood icon Angelina Jolie has been preparing to leave the U.S. after her intense eight-year divorce battle with Brad Pitt finally concluded. Jolie has made no secret of her disillusionment with America, even stating that she no longer “recognizes” the country.
Now, sources say the Oscar-winning actress is closer than ever to making her plans a reality, as she prepares to say farewell to her longtime home in Los Angeles. Jolie has put her lavish $25 million Cecil B. DeMille estate, which she has called home since 2016, up for sale and has started privately showing the mansion to potential buyers.
Jolie’s New Life: A Split Between New York and Europe
According to insiders, the 50-year-old actress intends to divide her time between New York, where her fashion brand Atelier Jolie is based, and Europe. This shift is reportedly part of her desire to gain more privacy and distance from the constant media scrutiny she faces in Los Angeles.
Jolie is also planning to spend time in Cambodia, where she has owned a home since 2003. As a citizen of Cambodia, she has a strong connection to the country, having adopted two of her six children from there.
“She needs a break from all the drama,” said Jae Benjamin, an actor and producer who has known Jolie since 2005. “The best way for her to take that break is to leave and recharge. She’ll be focusing on projects that truly inspire her.”
The Fallout from a Bitter Divorce
Much of the tension in Jolie’s life is likely linked to her long, public divorce from Brad Pitt. Though the couple separated in 2016, their divorce proceedings dragged on for years, only being finalized in December 2024. Even now, the two are still in legal battles over a vineyard they once shared in France.
Benjamin noted that the Hollywood spotlight and the years of public turmoil have been difficult for Jolie to handle. “Living in a city where everyone recognizes you, where it’s impossible to have privacy, has taken its toll,” he said.
Though she was born and raised in Los Angeles, Jolie has long expressed a desire to leave the city behind. She has previously stated that she would stay in L.A. only until her six children, whom she shares with Pitt, turned 18. That milestone is fast approaching, with the twins Knox and Vivienne set to celebrate their 18th birthdays in July.
A Critical View of America
Like many public figures, Jolie has recently voiced her growing frustration with America. In a September interview with Variety, she said, “I love my country, but right now, I don’t recognize it.” She went on to emphasize how her international lifestyle—having lived in various countries and with a globally diverse family—has shaped her worldview.
Jolie expressed concern about what she perceives as a dangerous trend in America: “Anything that divides people or limits their personal freedoms is something I consider very dangerous,” she said. “We are living in such heavy times, and we must be cautious in how we speak about them.”
While many celebrities have threatened to leave the U.S. over the years, few actually follow through. However, it seems that Jolie is serious about her decision this time.
It will be intriguing to see how Jolie adjusts to life outside of the U.S. and whether the grass is truly greener on the other side. One thing is certain: it’s going to be a major shift for the actress as she steps into this new chapter of her life.
