Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt Finalize Divorce After Years of Turmoil – What’s Next for Brangelina?
2024-12-31
Author: Jessica Wong
Introduction
In a significant turn of events, Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt have finally reached a divorce settlement after an exhausting eight-year legal battle, as confirmed by Jolie's lawyer. This monumental decision marks the end of a tumultuous chapter for one of Hollywood’s most celebrated couples, fondly dubbed 'Brangelina.'
Background of the Couple
The couple, who tied the knot in 2014 and share six children, first found themselves in the public eye for their whirlwind romance that began on the set of the 2005 blockbuster *Mr. and Mrs. Smith*. However, Jolie's filing for divorce in 2016, citing "irreconcilable differences," overshadowed their fairy tale with stark allegations of abuse. Jolie accused Pitt of being abusive during an incident aboard a private jet, which subsequently led to a police investigation. Despite the severity of the claims, Pitt was never charged and has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Legal Proceedings and Settlement
Jolie's attorney James Simon highlighted that his client has been focused on "finding peace and healing for their family," stating, "This is just one part of a long ongoing process... Angelina is exhausted, but she is relieved this one part is over." While the details of the settlement remain undisclosed, it promises to be just one step in a labyrinthine series of legal disputes.
Custody Battles and Financial Disputes
The divorce has not only entailed custody battles but has also sparked a bitter feud over Chateau Miraval— a prestigious vineyard in France that the pair purchased together in 2008 for around 25 million euros. Recent allegations surfaced from Pitt claiming that Jolie sold her stake to Russian oligarch Yuri Shefler without his knowledge, which he argues was an act intended to undermine his wine investment. This ongoing dispute, intertwined with their custody battles, has left a trail of bitter accusations; Jolie has accused Pitt of a “vindictive war,” while he has alleged that she seeks to sabotage his business ventures.
Impact on the Children
Their children, aged eight to 15 during the reported incidents, have also been affected by the fallout. In a striking move this year, their daughter Shiloh requested a court to officially drop Pitt’s surname, opting for “Shiloh Jolie” instead. Reports indicate that two other children have followed suit, indicating the deep emotional impact of their parents’ split on their family dynamics.
Their Careers and Future Projects
Financially, at the height of their union, Pitt and Jolie were estimated to be worth $400 million—a fortune accumulated from their box office successes. Jolie's illustrious career includes iconic roles in films like *Lara Croft: Tomb Raider* and *Girl, Interrupted*, while Pitt dazzled audiences with performances in *Fight Club* and *Once Upon a Time in Hollywood*. Pitt is reportedly engaged in a new project, a Formula One film titled *F1*, where he plays veteran driver Sonny Hayes, while Jolie is working on a biopic about opera diva Maria Callas.
Looking Ahead
As the dust settles from months of legal strife, fans are left wondering about the future of both Jolie and Pitt, both as individuals and as co-parents. Will they find common ground for the sake of their children? Only time will tell.