The highly publicized divorce of Hollywood stars Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie has become one of the longest in celebrity history, continuing for eight years since the couple announced their split in 2016. Their legal entanglements have been marked by a myriad of complexities, primarily revolving around custody disputes involving their six children and their joint ownership of a French vineyard.
According to celebrity lawyer Chris Melcher, the protracted nature of the proceedings has been unusually lengthy, especially compared to typical divorce settlements, which often conclude within six months to a year. He pointed to the "bitter fights" over custody and the subsequent disputes regarding their shared property as contributing factors to the delay. The divorce has established a troubling precedent, showcasing how vast wealth and fame can complicate matters beyond the realm of an average separation.
Pitt, 61, and Jolie, 49, met in 2004 during the filming of "Mr. & Mrs. Smith," marrying a decade later in 2014. Their relationship, marked by passionate commitment and frequent public appearances, took a downturn revealed by Jolie's shocking decision to file for divorce, citing "irreconcilable differences" shortly after a heated incident on a private flight involving their son Maddox, then 15.
Since then, the fallout has seen accusations of "drunken attacks" against Pitt, which he has denied. Pitt, who has struggled with personal issues, including substance abuse during the marriage, reflected in interviews on the necessity of change following the split. Jolie emphasized her focus on their children's healing and wellbeing amidst their ongoing separation.
The conflict has also involved custody arrangements, initially resolved in 2018 but later contested in court. In 2021, a judge awarded Pitt joint custody; however, the decision was complicated by issues surrounding the presiding judge's failure to disclose business ties to Pitt's legal team.
Adding another layer of complexity is the legal struggle over their shared vineyard, Château Miraval, where they tied the knot. Jolie's sale of her share to a company linked to a Russian oligarch drew Pitt's ire, leading him to sue her for breaching their agreement not to sell without consent.
Despite the ongoing turmoil, both Jolie and Pitt's legal teams have remained largely discreet, seeking to protect their children's privacy. As their children, now aged 16 to 23, navigate this tumultuous period of their lives, the emotional toll on them remains a concern voiced by journalists and family advocates alike.
As this protracted chapter of their lives draws to a close, Jolie's lawyer acknowledged the long and exhausting journey they have all endured, expressing that while one part of the process is settled, the turbulent saga of high-profile breakups remains a cautionary tale of the complexities of love, family, and the impact of public scrutiny.
