Angelina Jolie recently shared her thoughts on working in Hollywood and the challenges artists face in the industry. Speaking at the 36th Palm Springs International Film Festival earlier this week, the 49-year-old actress opened up about her experiences and offered advice to aspiring artists.
In her conversation with Variety, Jolie emphasized the importance of leading a fulfilling life outside of one’s career. “There’s a lot of focus on just having a career,” she remarked. “If you love theatre, you can do readings at home in your pajamas. You don’t have to get that job. Find ways to just live as an artist, be around artists, but also live a very full life.”
The Maleficent actress candidly admitted that Hollywood can be a challenging and unhealthy environment at times. “It’s sometimes not a healthy business,” she declared. Jolie advised young artists to prioritize their well-being, adding, “It’s not the easiest place, and it’s not where you should give everything if you’re living a full life.”
Reflecting on her portrayal of Maria Callas in Pablo Larraín’s upcoming biopic, Jolie shared a personal story about overcoming self-doubt. “I had somebody once tell me I couldn’t sing or dismiss me when I was singing, and it really shut me down,” she revealed. “It was a part of my life that I just blocked.”
When director Pablo Larraín approached her for the role and inquired about her singing ability, Jolie admitted that she initially lied. “He asked, ‘Can you sing?’ and I said yes,” she confessed with a smile. “Obviously, nobody can sing like Maria Callas. No one. But I’ll do my best.”
Jolie’s reflections offer a glimpse into her perspective as both an artist and a seasoned Hollywood veteran. Her advice underscores the importance of maintaining balance and authenticity in a demanding industry. As she continues to take on challenging roles, including the iconic opera singer Maria Callas, Jolie remains an inspiring figure for artists striving to navigate the complexities of their craft.