Angelina Jolie is facing a challenging transition as her children grow up and begin to leave the nest. The actress, known for her deep involvement in her six children's lives, is reportedly struggling with what many call empty nest syndrome. Sources close to Jolie revealed that the actress is feeling isolated and lost as her kids become more independent.
On April 20, 2025, reports surfaced that Jolie is particularly affected by the changes in her family dynamics. Her children, Maddox, 23, Pax, 21, Zahara, 20, Shiloh, 18, and the 16-year-old twins Knox and Vivienne, are at various stages of adulthood, with some already moving out or preparing to do so.
Jolie's plans to relocate to New York City have been complicated by her custody arrangements. She is unable to make a complete move until her youngest children, Knox and Vivienne, turn 18. However, she has already given her New York City apartment to one of her sons, who uses it as a “crash pad” whenever the family is in town.
A source told Radar Online, "It really hurt that he didn't want to see her. She tried to laugh it off, but it was a knife in the heart and one more reminder that she's no longer the center of her children's universe." This sentiment reflects the emotional toll that her children's growing independence is taking on Jolie.
Despite her desire to have all her children live with her in New York, Jolie is facing the reality that she cannot do so for at least another two years. "Angelina would love to move all her children to New York and get a place big enough for all of them," an insider shared. Yet, the current custody arrangement prevents her from fully realizing this wish.
As her children spend more time away from home, Jolie is feeling increasingly lonely. "She's feeling very isolated and really struggling to adjust," the insider remarked. The actress has devoted much of her life to raising her children, and now that they don’t need her in the same way, she’s grappling with her identity outside of motherhood.
Another source emphasized that Jolie's focus on her children has left her unprepared for this new chapter of her life. "Instead of creating a new life for herself, she focused solely on her kids. Now that they don't need her in the same way, she's totally lost," the source concluded.
As the world watches, Angelina Jolie navigates the bittersweet reality of her children growing up. While she has dedicated herself to being a present and supportive mother, the inevitable changes are challenging her to find a new sense of purpose and identity. The actress, who has always been in the spotlight, now faces the task of redefining her life as her children embark on their own journeys.
This transition period is not just about letting go; it’s about finding a balance between supporting her children and reclaiming her own life. Jolie's story is a relatable one for many parents facing similar challenges, and her journey toward self-discovery amidst the changes in her family dynamics continues to unfold.
