Inside the ‘Tragedy’ of Brad Pitt and Angelina’s Jolie Split 10 Years Later: ‘A Very Difficult and Painful Decade’ (Exclusive)

Ten years have elapsed since the much-publicised separation of Hollywood icons Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. Their breakup in September 2016 came as a shock to fans and followers worldwide, marking the end of a relationship that had been celebrated as one of the most glamorous and powerful in the entertainment industry. A source close to Jolie has revealed that the last decade has been “very difficult and painful” for her, but suggests she is optimistic about the future and hopes for an easier next chapter.

The couple’s split was prompted by an incident on a private jet during a family flight on September 14, 2016, which became public shortly after Jolie filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences. The fallout from that ill-fated flight saw Pitt face allegations of child abuse. Although he was cleared by both the FBI and Los Angeles County’s Department of Children and Family Services after investigations found no evidence of wrongdoing, the damage to their relationship and family dynamic was considerable.

In the years following their breakup, both Pitt and Jolie have endured a protracted and acrimonious custody battle regarding their six children: Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, and twins Vivienne and Knox. Reports indicate that the level of communication between Pitt and his children remains minimal, which sources describe as a “tragedy.” This ongoing tension is compounded by the recent name changes of some of the children, who have opted to drop “Pitt” from their surname.

Reflecting on the past, insiders suggest that there has been an increasing willingness to acknowledge that the relationship was not as idyllic as it may have appeared to the public. The hidden difficulties, one source stated, had been “festering for many years” before the couple’s split. Despite maintaining a dignified silence around the specifics of the divorce, sources close to Jolie previously noted that she has endured considerable misinformation throughout the years.

While Pitt has publicly acknowledged personal challenges in the wake of the breakup, including a struggle with alcohol, he has also found some solace in his personal life. Since late 2022, he has been linked with jewellery designer Ines de Ramon, with sources describing their relationship as one that has brought him comfort and support. In past interviews, Pitt has shared his reflections on his struggles with mental health and his journey towards sobriety, even admitting to a period of feeling suicidal due to family pressures.

Jolie, for her part, has gradually emerged from the shadows of her tumultuous decade, focusing on her health and personal endeavours. She has recently indicated a desire to move beyond her Los Angeles roots, having listed her sprawling California property for nearly £24 million. Excited about the potential for new adventures and humanitarian work, she plans to travel more extensively and engage in her various philanthropic efforts, particularly those associated with her son Maddox in Cambodia.

The actress has also resumed her career in film, taking on lead roles in several high-profile projects, including the forthcoming Maria Callas biopic and a directing role in the upcoming film Without Blood. As Jolie refines her approach to parenthood, she emphasises the importance of supporting her children as they carve out their individual paths.

Despite their divorce being finalised in December 2024, unresolved matters linger, particularly concerning their jointly-owned Chateau Miraval winery in France. Pitt’s lawsuit alleges that Jolie sold her stake without his consent, a claim she has contested by accusing him of waging a “vindictive war” against her.

In interviews, both Pitt and Jolie have expressed a degree of forgiveness towards each other. While Pitt searches for peace and acceptance amidst his own challenges, Jolie remains focused on her family’s well-being and her own creative inspirations. Both appear eager to move on from the conflict of the past decade, even amidst ongoing legal disputes and personal journeys of healing.

In summary, the decade since their split has seen both Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie navigate personal and professional turmoil. They have both sought to find balance as they adjust to life post-separation, while working towards a future that may yet hold moments of reconciliation and fulfilment for themselves and their children.