Amidst mounting media pressure and the relentless scrutiny surrounding her personal life, Angelina Jolie contemplates a permanent departure from Hollywood.
In a recent conversation with The Wall Street Journal, the actress and producer expressed her concern about the toxic nature of the industry and the detrimental impact it has on the health of film and television artists.
Jolie's urgency to leave Hollywood stems from her desire to shield her family from the intense scrutiny they have endured, particularly in the aftermath of her divorce and legal battles with Brad Pitt.
Reflecting on Hollywood's toxicity, Jolie remarked that if she were starting her career in 2023, she would think twice about entering the celebrity sphere. "I wouldn't be an actress today," said the Oscar winner, underscoring the heightened public expectations and invasion of privacy that artists now face.
The actress voiced her deep concern about the blurred line between the private lives of celebrities and their public profiles. The incessant attention and scrutiny her family has faced over the past two decades, especially after her divorce, have taken a toll on her physical well-being. Jolie disclosed, "My body reacts very badly to stress; my blood pressure rises, and I even suffered facial paralysis due to the same thing."
Furthermore, she highlighted the impossibility of maintaining a healthy social life in Los Angeles, attributing it to the relentless pursuit of paparazzi. The post-divorce harassment has made it challenging for her and her children to travel freely and move around without constant intrusion.
In addition to grappling with media attention, Jolie revealed a few months ago that she intends to reduce her film commitments, opting for roles in less extensive projects. She cited the need for her family to engage in healing work, emphasizing that they are still seeking strength.
While headlines continue to focus on Jolie's past relationship with Brad Pitt, where she accused him of physical abuse in 2016, Pitt has not faced significant consequences within the industry or legally. Jolie expressed exhaustion and depression, stating, "I haven't even felt like myself for a whole decade."
Despite contemplating an exit from acting, Jolie's next project is the film "Maria" by Pablo Larraín. Although she initially declared her readiness to leave the medium after this film, her recent confirmation for "Maleficent 3" suggests that her Hollywood journey might still have unexpected turns.
