Born: 1975
Biography:
Angelina Jolie DCMG (/dʒoʊˈliː/; born Angelina Jolie Voight; June 4, 1975) is an American actress, filmmaker, and humanitarian. She is widely acclaimed for her versatile acting abilities and has received numerous accolades, including an Academy Award and three Golden Globe Awards. Jolie has been named Hollywood’s highest-paid actress multiple times, demonstrating her exceptional talent and widespread influence in the industry.
Born into a family with a strong acting background, Jolie made her screen debut at the tender age of seven alongside her father, Jon Voight, in the film Lookin’ to Get Out (1982). However, it wasn’t until the 1990s that she gained recognition as a prominent actress. Her film career began in earnest with the low-budget production Cyborg 2 (1993) and was followed by her first leading role in a major film in Hackers (1995).
Jolie’s breakthrough came with her remarkable performances in the biographical television films George Wallace (1997) and Gia (1998). However, it was her portrayal of Lisa Rowe in the 1999 drama Girl, Interrupted that truly launched her into stardom. Her exceptional acting abilities earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, marking her as a formidable talent in the industry.
Establishing herself as a leading Hollywood actress, Jolie garnered significant attention for her portrayal of the iconic video game character Lara Croft in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001). This role solidified her status as an action star and brought her wide recognition among audiences worldwide. Throughout her career, she continued to impress critics and viewers alike with her performances in films such as Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005), Wanted (2008), Salt (2010), and The Tourist (2010).
In addition to her captivating action-star roles, Jolie has showcased her immense talent for dramatic acting. She delivered remarkable performances in films like A Mighty Heart (2007) and Changeling (2008), which garnered critical acclaim and even earned her a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actress.
Jolie’s commercial success has extended to fantasy and superhero films, with her starring role in Maleficent (2014) and its 2019 sequel captivating audiences worldwide. She continued to make waves within the superhero genre with her appearance in Eternals (2021). Additionally, Jolie lent her voice to the animated film series Kung Fu Panda starting in 2008, further showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Aside from her acting career, Jolie has also made a significant impact as a director and writer. She helmed the war dramas In the Land of Blood and Honey (2011), Unbroken (2014), and First They Killed My Father (2017), solidifying her position as a talented filmmaker with a commitment to exploring compelling and important stories.
Beyond her remarkable career in the entertainment industry, Jolie is widely recognized for her humanitarian efforts. She has received a Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award in recognition of her unwavering commitment to charitable causes. In acknowledgment of her substantial contributions, she was also made an honorary Dame Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George.
Jolie has been a passionate advocate for numerous causes, including conservation, education, and women’s rights. She has been particularly notable for her advocacy on behalf of refugees as a Special Envoy for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Jolie has undertaken over a dozen field missions to refugee camps and war zones, making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by conflict and displacement. Her efforts have taken her to countries such as Cambodia, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Syria, Sudan, Yemen, and Ukraine.
As a public figure, Jolie has consistently been recognized for her power and influence within the American entertainment industry. Her beauty has also garnered her the title of the world’s most beautiful woman by various media outlets. Throughout her personal life, including her relationships, marriages, and health struggles, Jolie has been subject to intense public scrutiny. Despite this, she remains an inspiring figure, continually using her platform to shed light on important issues and make a positive impact on society.
Awards:
– Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for Girl, Interrupted (1999)
– Three Golden Globe Awards
– Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award
– Honorary Dame Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George