Angelina Jolie, known today as an Oscar-winning actress, humanitarian, and global icon, had a humble yet fascinating start in the world of entertainment. From her early years as the daughter of Hollywood stars to her breakthrough roles on the big screen, her journey is as captivating as her presence. This article will dive into the life of Angelina Jolie Young when she was young, exploring her family background, early career, and the moments that made her one of the most celebrated figures in Hollywood.
Early Life and Family Background
Angelina Jolie Young was born on June 4, 1975, in Los Angeles, California, to two famous parents—actor Jon Voight and actress Marcheline Bertrand. Growing up in a family steeped in the entertainment industry, it was no surprise that she eventually made her way into the world of acting. While her father’s fame as a leading man in Hollywood films like Midnight Cowboy and Deliverance put Jolie’s name in the public eye, it was her mother’s quiet strength and support that would ultimately shape Angelina’s character. Marcheline was an actress who had a much lower-profile career, but her influence on Jolie’s life was immeasurable.
From a young age, Angelina’s life was filled with artistic exposure, though her early years were not without challenges. Her parents’ divorce when she was just a child left a deep impression on her, and she later spoke openly about the emotional scars from her parents’ separation. Despite these struggles, Jolie’s passion for acting began to take root early. She attended the Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute at the age of 11, where she studied acting for two years. This early training helped refine her skills and set the stage for her future career.
Education and Modeling Career
Jolie’s youth was marked by her determination to follow in her parent’s footsteps, and she quickly realized that her talents extended beyond the stage. After high school, she enrolled at the prestigious Beverly Hills High School, where she participated in drama classes and theater productions. During this time, Jolie was also gaining attention for her striking beauty, which led to opportunities in modeling. She posed for several advertisements and appeared in music videos, most notably for the Rolling Stones song “Anybody Seen My Baby.” These early modeling jobs helped solidify her place in front of the camera.
Despite her growing presence in the entertainment world, Angelina never wanted to be known solely for her looks. She pursued acting with a clear intent to be recognized for her skill. Her ambition led her to enroll at New York University (NYU), where she continued to hone her craft and further her education in drama. It was during this time that she began landing small acting roles in television and film, which helped her build the foundation for her later success.
Breakthrough Roles: The Beginning of Stardom
Angelina Jolie’s big break came in 1995 with her role in Hackers, a sci-fi thriller about a group of computer-savvy teenagers. Though the film did not perform well at the box office, it became a cult classic, and Jolie’s performance as the rebellious and tech-savvy “Acid Burn” caught the attention of critics and audiences alike. This role marked the start of her rise to stardom, and she began receiving more offers for acting roles.
In 1997, Jolie earned widespread recognition for her portrayal of Lisa Rowe in Girl, Interrupted. The film, based on Susanna Kaysen’s memoir about life in a psychiatric institution, featured a star-studded cast that included Winona Ryder. Angelina’s portrayal of the volatile sociopath earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, cementing her place in Hollywood’s elite circle. Her performance was powerful, emotionally raw, and unforgettable, proving that Jolie was more than just a pretty face—she was a force to be reckoned with in the industry.
Rise to Global Fame: Lara Croft: Tomb Raider and More
After her Oscar win, Angelina Jolie’s career reached new heights. One of the most significant turning points in her young career came in 2001 with her role as Lara Croft in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider. Based on the popular video game character, the film turned Jolie into a worldwide sensation. Not only was she praised for her action-packed performance, but her portrayal of the adventurous archaeologist helped redefine the action-hero genre, with Jolie becoming one of the most recognizable women in Hollywood.
The success of Lara Croft: Tomb Raider led to a sequel, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider – The Cradle of Life in 2003, further solidifying Jolie’s status as an international star. She continued to land major roles in films like Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005), which was where she met and later married Brad Pitt, and A Mighty Heart (2007), where she portrayed the widow of murdered journalist Daniel Pearl. With each new film, Jolie’s career soared, and she became one of the most sought-after actresses in Hollywood.
Personal Life and Humanitarian Efforts
While Jolie’s professional life was flourishing, her personal life often made headlines. In addition to her marriages to actors Jonny Lee Miller and Billy Bob Thornton, her relationship with Brad Pitt garnered significant media attention. The couple, known as Brangelina, became one of Hollywood’s most beloved and scrutinized couples. Their relationship, which began on the set of Mr. & Mrs. Smith, was followed closely by the press, and their eventual divorce in 2016 only intensified the public’s fascination with their lives.
Despite the media frenzy surrounding her personal life, Angelina remained committed to her humanitarian work. In 2001, she was appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and her advocacy for refugees and displaced people became a central part of her life. Jolie’s philanthropic efforts took her to war-torn regions such as Cambodia, Iraq, and Sudan, where she helped raise awareness about the plight of refugees. In 2012, she was appointed as a Special Envoy to the UNHCR, furthering her commitment to global humanitarian efforts.
Legacy and Influence of Angelina Jolie Young
Angelina Jolie Young rise to fame was not just about her box-office success. She became a symbol of beauty, strength, and resilience for women worldwide. Her impact on Hollywood and pop culture is undeniable, and she remains an influential figure in both the entertainment industry and the realm of philanthropy. Even today, as she continues to work on various humanitarian initiatives, her legacy as a talented actress and advocate for global change remains firmly intact.
Her influence also extends to the next generation of actresses, as many young women look up to her not only for her acting but for her determination to use her platform for good. Jolie’s career trajectory serves as a reminder of how talent, hard work, and perseverance can turn a young actress into a global icon.
Conclusion
Angelina Jolie’s rise to fame is a remarkable journey of talent, resilience, and ambition. From her early life in Hollywood to her breakout roles and her dedication to humanitarian causes, Jolie’s story is one of inspiration. Her status as one of the most iconic actresses in Hollywood is a testament to her hard work and determination to make a difference in the world. Whether through her unforgettable performances or her advocacy, the legacy of Angelina Jolie Young continues to inspire millions around the globe.
FAQs: About Angelina Jolie Young
What was Angelina Jolie Young first big role?
Angelina Jolie’s first significant role was in Hackers (1995), where she played a computer hacker named Acid Burn. Though the film didn’t do well at the box office, it earned Jolie recognition and helped launch her career.
How did Angelina Jolie Young become famous?
Jolie became famous after her Oscar-winning performance in Girl, Interrupted (1999), where she played a troubled patient named Lisa Rowe. Her performance earned her critical acclaim and solidified her as a leading actress in Hollywood.
What is Angelina Jolie’s most iconic role?
One of Angelina Jolie’s most iconic roles is as Lara Croft in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001). The film catapulted her into global stardom and cemented her place as an action movie icon.
Is Angelina Jolie Young involved in humanitarian work?
Yes, Angelina Jolie Young has been a committed humanitarian for many years. She has worked as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and has visited numerous war-torn countries to raise awareness about the refugee crisis.