Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, one of Hollywood’s most iconic former couples, have reached a divorce settlement after eight years of legal battles. This marks the conclusion of one of the entertainment industry’s most protracted and contentious divorce cases.
Confirmation from Jolie’s attorney
Jolie’s attorney, James Simon, confirmed the news on Monday, stating, “More than eight years ago, Angelina filed for divorce from Mr Pitt. She and the children left all of the properties they had shared with Mr Pitt, and since that time, she has focused on finding peace and healing for their family. This is just one part of a long ongoing process that started eight years ago. Frankly, Angelina is exhausted, but she is relieved this one part is over.”
The settlement, reported initially by People magazine, brings some closure to a saga that has gripped the public and media since Jolie filed for divorce in 2016.
No court filing yet
Although the agreement has been reached, no court documents have yet been filed, and a judge must formally approve the settlement. Pitt’s legal team has not issued a comment on the development.
A Hollywood power couple
Jolie, 49, and Pitt, 61, were once Hollywood’s golden couple, admired for their on-screen chemistry and humanitarian efforts. They were together for 12 years, married for two, and share six children.
The split was triggered by an incident aboard a private jet in 2016, during which Jolie alleged that Pitt had been abusive toward her and their children. The accusation led to an investigation by child welfare authorities and the FBI, though no charges were filed against Pitt.
Divorce declared in 2019
In 2019, a judge officially declared Jolie and Pitt divorced and legally single. However, the division of their assets and arrangements for child custody remained unresolved, prolonging the legal battle.
The process was further complicated by the removal of a private judge hired by the couple to expedite the proceedings. Although the judge initially awarded equal custody, Jolie succeeded in having him disqualified for failing to disclose prior connections to Pitt’s legal team. This decision by an appeals court forced the couple to restart custody negotiations.
Private proceedings
Like many high-profile celebrity divorces, Jolie and Pitt chose to employ a private judge to maintain discretion over their proceedings. While this approach shielded most details from the public eye, some aspects of their disputes have surfaced through separate lawsuits.
One such legal matter involves the couple’s co-ownership of a French winery, Château Miraval. Pitt sued Jolie, alleging she violated an agreement by selling her stake in the estate to a third party. It remains unclear how the divorce settlement will impact this ongoing dispute.
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A gruelling process
Jolie’s statement reflects the emotional toll the divorce has taken on her and her family. The eight-year battle has seen both stars balance their high-profile careers with the complexities of co-parenting and legal wrangling.
Pitt, who has largely kept his remarks on the divorce private, has reportedly sought to maintain a relationship with his children. However, custody arrangements have been a persistent point of contention.
Moving forward
Details of the settlement remain under wraps, but its resolution signifies a significant step forward for both Jolie and Pitt. Their case highlights the complexities and emotional strain of high-profile divorces, particularly when children and substantial assets are involved.
As the dust settles, both stars are expected to continue focusing on their respective careers and personal lives. Jolie remains active in humanitarian work and filmmaking, while Pitt continues to be a prominent figure in Hollywood, with multiple acclaimed roles and production credits in recent years.
A symbolic end
The agreement closes a chapter that has captivated audiences worldwide, transforming the narrative from a fairytale romance to a cautionary tale of fame, family, and fractured relationships. For Jolie and Pitt, it signals the opportunity to finally move forward after nearly a decade of legal and emotional challenges.
