At the 2025 Palm Springs International Film Festival held on January 3, Angelina Jolie emerged not only as an award winner but as a devoted mother, bringing along her eldest daughter, Zahara. The occasion marked just three days after the celebrated actress finalised her divorce from Brad Pitt, concluding eight years of legal disputes.
Jolie, 49, dressed elegantly in a black halter-neck gown, received the Desert Palm Achievement Award for her portrayal of opera icon Maria Callas in Pablo Larraín's forthcoming film Maria. Meanwhile, Zahara, 19, impressed attendees with her fully sleeved white ensemble, styled gracefully with cutouts and draped details. Jolie's recognition at the festival highlights her resilience and continued prominence within the film industry even as she negotiates personal challenges.
While accepting her award, Jolie dedicated heartfelt words to her children. “There was Maria and there was Callas. And Callas was loved. But Maria was often alone,” she reflected on Callas’s tumultuous life. The actress expressed her gratitude, stating, “But I’m alright today because when I walk off this stage, I am more myself because of you, Zahara, and your brothers and sisters. I love you.” This touching tribute reminds the audience of her strong familial bonds.
Interestingly, Jolie’s performance as Callas has not only stirred acclaim but also positioned her as a strong contender for the Golden Globe for Best Actress—a nomination announced just before the ceremony scheduled for January 5.
Beyond the glimmer of Hollywood recognition, Jolie recently unveiled her innermost feelings about the loss of her mother, Marcheline Bertrand, whose aspirations heavily influenced Jolie's entry to the acting world. Reflecting on her mother’s legacy, she revealed to W Magazine, “I did it in the beginning because… it was my mother’s dream.” After losing Bertrand to cancer in 2007, Jolie struggled with her identity as an actress, admitting, “When my mom passed, I think it was harder for me to be an actress for a little bit.”
Jolie explained how her mother’s dreams and sacrifices shaped her own ambitions, illustrating the deep emotional connection they shared: “She loved being a stay-at-home mom, but she really wanted me to be an actress.” Bertrand, who was once aspiring to pursue acting herself, eventually sacrificed her career for motherhood, leaving Jolie feeling the weight of the emotional bond they had.
Her reflections continued as Jolie noted the impact education and the arts had on her upbringing. “I grew up with a mother who kept books inside the oven because there were more books than shelves. Her priority was always education and creativity.” This passion for learning and creation continues to resonate within Jolie’s life.
These poignant reflections coincide with her candid acknowledgment of dishonesty, which Jolie described as her biggest pet peeve during another W Magazine interview. She stated, “My pet peeve is somebody who is a liar. It’s not about being heavy, but about being true to oneself.” This sentiment rings particularly true as she navigated through the personal turmoil stemming from her divorce with Pitt, which formally concluded on December 30, 2024.
The divorce proceedings proved to be highly public and complex, with custody battles over their six children, Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, and twins Knox and Vivienne. Initially seeking sole custody, Jolie expressed concerns over Pitt’s behavior during their marriage. After lengthy negotiations, the parties agreed on joint custody terms. Meanwhile, several of their children—most prominently Shiloh—have recently decided to drop the ‘Pitt’ surname, opting instead for ‘Jolie’ as they forge their identities independently.
For Jolie, the conclusion of this eight-year legal saga signifies not just the end of her relationship with Pitt but also culminates years of public scrutiny and personal reflection. Each milestone, from accepting awards to sharing insights about her mother and candid personal preferences, showcases her resilience amid the pressures of Hollywood life.
At the Palm Springs International Film Festival, Jolie stood out among honored celebrities, including Nicole Kidman, who received the International Star Award for her role in Babygirl, and Adrien Brody, who earned accolades for his performance in The Brutalist. Ariana Grande was also celebrated with the Rising Star Award for her portrayal of Glinda in Wicked.
The culmination of these events—award receptions, reflections on motherhood, and the finalisation of her divorce—illustrates Jolie’s multi-faceted personality, balancing professional achievements with personal trials. While her past with Pitt remains quoted and discussed, it’s clear Jolie is on her own path of reclaiming her identity as both an individual and artist.