In a dramatic turn of events, friendship dynamics between two prominent figures in Hollywood have taken a sour twist, leaving fans and followers speculating about the future of their once-close bond. Jennifer Aniston and Chelsea Handler, who were once inseparable, have reportedly drifted apart due to a series of misunderstandings and public revelations that sparked tension between them.
According to sources close to Aniston, the relationship began to fray as Handler started to publicly air private details about Aniston's life. This included Handler's comments about Aniston's infamous feud with Angelina Jolie, which stemmed from Jolie's relationship with Aniston's ex-husband, Brad Pitt. Handler's remarks, which included calling Jolie "a f***ing lunatic" and suggesting that Pitt's struggles with substance abuse were a result of being married to her, did not sit well with Aniston.
Insiders reveal that the friendship developed quickly after Aniston appeared on Handler's late-night talk show, "Chelsea Lately," in 2009. The two women bonded over their shared sense of humor, often seen together at awards shows and social events. However, as Handler's career continued to rise, her outspoken nature began to create friction. "Jen wants to be more private, while Chelsea wants to be front and center, so perhaps a breakdown was always inevitable," a source explained.
Handler's candidness about Aniston's personal life, particularly regarding her tumultuous relationship with Pitt and Jolie, reportedly left Aniston feeling exposed. Handler had previously defended Aniston, stating that it was "ridiculous" for people to think Aniston would care about her ex-husband's romantic life. However, as Handler continued to make headlines with her comments, Aniston grew increasingly concerned about her privacy.
In 2015, Aniston married filmmaker Justin Theroux, who was said to have a strained relationship with Handler. Sources indicate that Theroux found Handler "rude and obnoxious" and believed she encouraged Aniston to act single, despite her marriage. Handler's joking remarks about Aniston being a "burden" due to the media attention surrounding their friendship further complicated matters.
As the years passed, the tension only escalated. By 2017, as Aniston's marriage to Theroux began to crumble, she became paranoid about leaks to the press, often pointing fingers at Handler. This period marked a significant shift in their relationship, with Aniston reportedly feeling that Handler's public comments were jeopardizing her ability to maintain a low profile.
Despite the ongoing rumors of a rift, Handler attended Aniston's star-studded 50th birthday bash in February 2019, where she publicly denied any fallout. "Don't believe any of it! We're friends. Don't worry... I love Jen," Handler told the media. However, insiders have confirmed that while the two still communicate, their friendship is not what it once was.
"Chelsea seemed willing to do anything to be a star, and Jennifer was already a big name, so of course, there were hints of jealousy," a source noted. Aniston has since surrounded herself with a wide circle of friends, including close pals like Courteney Cox and Jimmy Kimmel, while Handler has not been seen in Aniston's inner circle.
In light of Handler's recent Netflix special, "The Feeling," in which she discusses her life and experiences, fans are left wondering if there is hope for a reconciliation. Handler's candid anecdotes, including her humorous encounter with former President George W. Bush while playing pickleball, showcase her ability to maintain her comedic edge despite personal challenges.
Handler's special features several stories about her life, including her public crush on former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, which she detailed in her latest book, "I'll Have What She's Having," released last month. While Handler expresses a desire for a quieter personal life, her public persona continues to draw attention.
As both women navigate their careers and personal lives, the future of their friendship remains uncertain. While they may still share fond memories of their past, it appears that the bond they once had may never return to its former glory. Fans can only hope that time will heal the rift and bring them back together, but for now, it seems that Aniston and Handler will remain cordial acquaintances rather than the close friends they once were.