Birth: June 4, 1975
Angelina Jolie acting career is studded with iconic performances across various genres.
Early Life & Family Background
Born Angelina Jolie Voight on June 4, 1975, in Los Angeles, California, Angelina Jolie is the daughter of actors Jon Voight and Marcheline Bertrand. Despite being born into a family of actors, Jolie’s childhood was marked by her parents’ divorce when she was young. She grew up with her mother and brother, James Haven.
Entry into Acting
Jolie’s interest in acting emerged at an early age, and she made her screen debut alongside her father in the film “Lookin’ to Get Out” (1982). However, it was her breakthrough role in “Gia” (1998), a biographical HBO film about model Gia Carangi, that brought her critical acclaim and attention in the industry. This was followed by her Academy Award-winning performance in “Girl, Interrupted” (1999), where she portrayed troubled mental patient Lisa Rowe.
Acting Career Highlights
Angelina Jolie’s acting career is studded with iconic performances across various genres:
- Action and Adventure: Jolie became an action star with her role as Lara Croft in “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider” (2001) and its sequel “Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life” (2003). These films established her as a leading lady in action-packed blockbusters.
- Drama: Her role in “A Mighty Heart” (2007), based on the life of journalist Daniel Pearl, earned her critical acclaim and showcased her versatility as an actor.
- Fantasy and Animation: Jolie’s voice work as the character of Master Tigress in the “Kung Fu Panda” series and as the title character in “Maleficent” (2014) further expanded her repertoire.
Humanitarian Work & Advocacy
Beyond her acting career, Angelina Jolie is renowned for her extensive humanitarian work and advocacy efforts. She has served as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) since 2001, undertaking field missions to refugee camps around the world and raising awareness about global refugee crises. In 2012, she was appointed Special Envoy to the UNHCR.
Personal Life & Philanthropy
Angelina Jolie’s personal life has often been under media scrutiny. She has been married three times, to actors Jonny Lee Miller, Billy Bob Thornton, and Brad Pitt. Jolie and Pitt, often referred to as “Brangelina” by the media, were one of Hollywood’s most prominent couples before their separation in 2016. Together, they have six children, three of whom were adopted from orphanages in Cambodia, Ethiopia, and Vietnam.
Jolie is also known for her philanthropic endeavors, donating generously to various causes and founding the Jolie-Pitt Foundation with Brad Pitt, which focuses on humanitarian issues worldwide.
Legacy and Influence
Angelina Jolie’s impact extends beyond the realm of entertainment. She has inspired millions with her dedication to humanitarian causes, challenged societal norms through her unconventional roles, and empowered women to embrace their strength and individuality. As an actor, activist, and mother, she continues to shape the world with her compassion, talent, and resilience.
