Hollywood star Angelina Jolie has long been known for her “icy demeanor” when interacting with other celebrities. She kept her distance from others while rising to the top of her career. In an interview, she once admitted that she doesn’t have many friends in the entertainment world and considers her children her best friends. However, recent events have led the actress to rethink her approach.
Jolie was not nominated for an Oscar for her role in the biographical film *Maria* by director Pablo Larraín, about the legendary opera singer Maria Callas, despite giving several interviews and attending premieres for the film. The actress attributed this to Hollywood being on the side of her ex-husband Brad Pitt, with whom she has been in a legal battle for the past eight years. Pitt has many influential friends in Hollywood, including George Clooney and Leonardo DiCaprio.
Jolie decided to take a similar path by building connections. During this year’s awards season, she underwent a transformation — the regal aloofness disappeared, replaced by a friendly and warm demeanor. Over the weekend at the Critics’ Choice Awards, she smiled and embraced Demi Moore. Jolie also had lively conversations with Zoe Saldana. Prior to that, she was seen hugging Kate Winslet and Salma Hayek at the Golden Globes. At the Palm Springs Film Festival, she chatted with Nicole Kidman, and at the “Modern Master” Award ceremony at the 40th Santa Barbara International Film Festival, the mother of six stayed close to Ava DuVernay.
“A Angelina knows exactly what she’s doing — this is intentional. She’s making connections within the Hollywood community to build new friendships. And she enjoys it! She likes making new friends, and she deeply respects her famous acquaintances. It’s a good thing,” said an insider.
Jolie’s change in attitude was prompted by Salma Hayek. The two worked together on the film *Eternals*, and Jolie invited the Mexican actress to play the lead role in her film *Without Blood*. “Salma is very smart, and I wouldn’t be surprised if she advised Angelina to go out more, network, and make friends. Salma is a mentor and helps many of her friends. She genuinely cares for them. I know Angelina looks up to her, so I’m sure Salma encourages her to show a softer side,” said the source.
Jolie didn’t take offense at the lack of recognition for her work on *Maria* at the Golden Globes, the Oscars, and the Screen Actors Guild Awards, despite her high hopes for the film. “Angelina doesn’t stay home sulking; she attends every event and smiles. It’s really admirable of her. She’s a true professional,” added those close to the actress.
