James Donaldson on Mental Health - Brad Pitt seemingly reflects on Angelina Jolie divorce, experienced ‘suicidal’ ideation while dealing with ‘family stuff’

Pitt and Jolie were declared legally single in 2019.

But their divorce wasn’t finalized until December 2024 following a lengthy court battle.

( Pitt has since moved on with Ines de Ramon.) Jolie spoke candidly about how the divorce impacted her career during a June interview with Variety .

“I had kind of quit acting before my divorce,” the actress explained at the time.

“I was focusing on directing, and I thought I’d be doing my international work.” However, these projects took her away from her duties as a mom for longer periods of time.

“Suddenly the only way to be home more and for short periods of time being away or to make a good amount of money, was to go back to acting,” Jolie added, noting that she would only sign on for projects that were “short or close by.” She would often bring her kids with her as well.

“I think my fighting spirit is finally back,” she shared, alluding to her divorce from Pitt.

I got kind of taken down a little bit and it’s coming back in large part thanks to my children, who are now older, and encouraging it.” Jolie said that her kids “want to see me traveling the world, they want me to get out and do things.” The actress added, “I think they’re very encouraging of me kind of getting back to aspects of myself that maybe I hadn’t felt as free to do.” If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, emotional distress, substance use problems, or just needs to talk, call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org 24/7.