LOS ANGELES — Angelina Jolie skipped the 2026 Academy Awards earlier this month, a decision sources close to the actress described as unsurprising given no eligible projects and her shifting priorities away from Hollywood's spotlight. The Oscar winner, who last attended the ceremony in 2024 for her directorial work, instead focused on personal transitions, including plans to relocate abroad later this year as her youngest children approach adulthood.

Jolie, 50, has been candid about feeling disconnected from the United States in recent interviews, stating she no longer "recognizes" the country due to changes in freedom of expression and social climate. Sources told People magazine in late 2025 that she is "excited" about moving overseas once custody arrangements with ex-husband Brad Pitt allow greater flexibility. Her twins, Knox and Vivienne, turn 18 in July 2026, potentially freeing her from Los Angeles residency requirements tied to the long-running divorce.

The actress listed her historic $25 million Cecil B. DeMille estate in Los Angeles for sale after renovations, with pre-qualified buyers touring the property. Plans call for splitting time between New York—home to her sustainable fashion venture Atelier Jolie—and Europe or Cambodia, where she holds citizenship and has deep humanitarian ties through her work with refugees.

Jolie's humanitarian efforts remain central. Recent reports noted her visits to conflict zones, though specifics on 2026 activities were limited. Her UNHCR ambassadorship continues to drive advocacy, often drawing her away from entertainment circles.

Professionally, Jolie is in a transitional phase with new projects gaining traction. Her latest film, "Couture," a fashion-world drama directed by Alice Winocour, was acquired by Vertical for North American theatrical release later in 2026 following its world premiere at TIFF in 2025. Jolie stars as Maxine, a filmmaker facing breast cancer who enters a romance during Paris Fashion Week chaos. The ensemble includes Louis Garrel, Ella Rumpf and newcomer Anyier Anei, exploring themes of women's resilience, solidarity and shared struggles across cultures and professions.

Rumors of a real-life romance between Jolie and co-star Garrel surfaced after public dinners, but sources close to the actress told TMZ on March 2 that the pair are not dating. "It's strictly professional," one insider said, emphasizing her focus on work and family post-divorce.

Jolie has not been in a relationship since finalizing her divorce from Pitt in December 2024 after an eight-year legal battle, according to a source cited by People. "She's too busy focusing on her work and her six children," the source said. "She hasn't had a boyfriend."

Family dynamics drew attention when eldest son Maddox dropped "Pitt" from his last name in credits for "Couture," where he contributed to production. The move, reported in late February, fueled speculation about strained ties, with some Pitt associates claiming it reflected Jolie's influence. Maddox, now in his 20s, has increasingly aligned with his mother's projects.

The divorce settlement, reached after years of custody, property and winery disputes, has not fully quelled tensions. Brad Pitt is pushing to depose Russian businessman Yuri Shefler regarding dealings related to their French winery, Château Miraval, according to court documents obtained by TMZ on March 17. The ongoing litigation centers on ownership and sales rights, with Pitt seeking clarity on transactions involving the multimillion-dollar asset. Sources described Jolie as "mentally drained" by the protracted fight, which has spanned nearly a decade since their 2016 separation.

Despite personal challenges, Jolie's career shows momentum. She is reuniting with "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" director Doug Liman for an untitled spy thriller, signaling a return to high-profile acting. Additionally, "Sunny," an action-thriller directed by Eva Sørhaug and inspired by mafia classics, is in production, marking her first action role in years after projects like "Eternals" and "The Eternals" in 2021.

Atelier Jolie continues to thrive as a platform for ethical fashion, blending Jolie's advocacy with creative output. The New York-based collective emphasizes sustainability and artisan collaboration, reflecting her shift toward entrepreneurial and philanthropic endeavors over traditional stardom.

Jolie's evolution from blockbuster star to multifaceted figure—actress, director, humanitarian and businesswoman—defines her 2026 chapter. Skipping awards season aligns with her preference for privacy and meaningful work amid life changes. As she prepares for potential relocation, upcoming releases like "Couture" and ongoing advocacy suggest she remains influential, even from afar.

With children growing independent and legal battles simmering, Jolie appears poised for a new era prioritizing global perspectives over Hollywood drama.

© International Business Times