Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie have officially finalized their divorce, concluding an eight-year legal process that began when Jolie filed to end their two-year marriage in September 2016. According to Jolie's legal team, the "Maria" star, 49, and Pitt, 61, signed off on the settlement on Monday, December 30.
Jolie’s attorney, James Simon, shared a statement with PEOPLE, emphasizing the emotional toll the lengthy proceedings have taken on the actress and her family. “More than eight years ago, Angelina filed for divorce from Mr. Pitt. She and the children left all of the properties they had shared with Mr. Pitt, and since that time, she has focused on finding peace and healing for their family,” Simon stated.
“This is just one part of a long, ongoing process that started eight years ago. Frankly, Angelina is exhausted, but she is relieved this one part is over," he added. A source close to Jolie echoed this sentiment: "She doesn’t speak ill of [Pitt] publicly or privately. She’s been trying hard to be light after a dark time.”
The Divorce Filing and the Events That Followed
Jolie initially filed for divorce on September 19, 2016, citing irreconcilable differences. The filing came shortly after an incident on a private plane where she alleged that Pitt was abusive to her and their six children. Although authorities investigated, no charges were filed, and Jolie opted not to press charges.
In early 2017, the couple issued a joint statement agreeing to keep future details of their divorce confidential and opting for a private judge to manage their legal disputes. "The parents are committed to acting as a united front to effectuate recovery and reunification," the statement concluded.
Custody Battles and Château Miraval Disputes
Despite their agreement to handle matters privately, Pitt and Jolie’s divorce negotiations remained fraught with tension. Custody of their six children—Maddox, 23; Pax, 21; Zahara, 19; Shiloh, 18; and twins Vivienne and Knox, 16—was a significant point of contention, especially before the majority reached adulthood.
Another significant legal battle revolved around the ownership of Château Miraval, their $164 million French estate and winery. Disputes over this property added years to the divorce process.
Declared Single in 2019, but Battles Continued
Although Pitt and Jolie were declared legally single in 2019 through a bifurcation of their divorce, the unresolved issues around custody and shared assets prolonged the final settlement.
Pitt, who has been dating L.A. jewelry executive Ines de Ramon, 34, since 2022, has largely stayed out of the public eye regarding his divorce proceedings. Meanwhile, Jolie has focused on rebuilding her life and prioritizing her family’s healing.
A Milestone Moment in a Difficult Journey
After eight years of emotional and legal battles, the finalization of their divorce represents a significant milestone for both Jolie and Pitt. While this chapter has been marked by strife, the resolution brings a sense of closure to one of Hollywood’s most high-profile breakups.