Angelina Jolie’s long-rumored European escape isn’t just talk anymore.
The 50-year-old Oscar winner is reportedly moving full steam ahead with plans to leave Los Angeles behind, and sources say she’s genuinely thrilled about what’s coming next.
After years of being tied to California due to custody arrangements with ex-husband Brad Pitt, Jolie is finally approaching freedom as her youngest children near adulthood.
And if insider reports are accurate, she can’t wait to go.
The Countdown to Freedom Begins
Jolie shares six children with Pitt, including 17-year-old twins Vivienne Marcheline and Knox Léon. Their 18th birthday arrives on July 12th, marking a pivotal moment for the Maria star.
She’s been vocal for years about her intention to relocate once her youngest children reach adulthood. That milestone is now just months away.
According to sources who spoke with People, Jolie isn’t sitting idle while waiting for that date. She’s already taking concrete steps toward her new life.
At the end of 2024, reports emerged that her Los Angeles property was being shown to pre-qualified buyers following renovations. The wheels are clearly in motion.
She’s ready for a life that isn’t centered in Los Angeles. There are a lot of projects she’s excited about and she’s feeling good. She’s looking forward to 2026 and the flexibility she’ll have then.
That flexibility represents more than just geographical freedom for the actress and humanitarian.
Europe Tops the List, But Cambodia Holds Her Heart
While Europe appears to be Jolie’s initial destination, her international vision extends far beyond one continent. The Without Blood director has discussed living in multiple locations throughout her life.
Cambodia holds particular significance. She adopted her eldest son Maddox from the Southeast Asian nation in 2002, and has repeatedly described it as home in ways Los Angeles never was.
She’s called Cambodia the one place “in my heart” that she truly considers home—a stark contrast to her feelings about Southern California.
A City Lacking “Humanity”
Jolie hasn’t been shy about her dissatisfaction with Los Angeles. During a 2024 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, she described the city as lacking fundamental warmth.
I am here because I have to be here from a divorce, but as soon as they’re 18, I’ll be able to leave. When you have a big family, you want them to have privacy, peace, safety.
Those comments crystallized what insiders have been saying for years: the Maleficent actress never wanted full-time Los Angeles residency.
Multiple sources have confirmed she remained anchored in California solely because of her custody arrangement with Pitt. One insider previously told People that Jolie “never wanted to live in L.A. full time” and has been unhappy there for years.
She didn’t have a choice because of the custody arrangement with Brad. She’s eyeing several locations abroad. She’ll be very happy when she’s able to leave Los Angeles.
Political Climate Adds Urgency to Departure Plans
Jolie’s desire to leave extends beyond Los Angeles to encompass America itself. At Spain’s San Sebastián Film Festival last September, she opened up about her disconnect from current U.S. politics.
While promoting her film Couture, the Eternals actress addressed political divisions, particularly following Donald Trump’s return to office.
Anything, anywhere that divides or limits personal expressions and freedoms, I think, is very dangerous.
She went further, making a striking declaration about her relationship with her home country.
I don’t, at this time, recognize my country. I’ve always lived internationally. My family is international. My life, my worldview, is equal [and] united.
Jolie concluded her remarks with measured caution, acknowledging the weight of such statements in today’s climate.
I think these are such serious times that we have to be careful not to say things casually. So I’ll be careful in a press conference. But these are very, very heavy times.
Following in Celebrity Footsteps
Jolie wouldn’t be the first high-profile figure to relocate abroad amid political disillusionment. Celebrities like Ellen DeGeneres and Rosie O’Donnell have already made similar moves to Europe in recent months.
What sets Jolie apart is the duration and depth of her planning. This isn’t a reactive decision made in political frustration—it’s a carefully considered life change years in the making.
Her international work with refugees and humanitarian causes has always positioned her as a global citizen rather than someone rooted in Hollywood culture. The move represents a return to authenticity rather than an escape.
What Comes Next for Jolie
As 2026 approaches, Jolie appears focused on projects that excite her beyond acting. Her Atelier Jolie fashion venture and directing work suggest creative pursuits that don’t require Los Angeles proximity.
Sources emphasize she’s not just leaving something behind—she’s moving toward something meaningful. Privacy for her family. Cultural richness. Connection to places that feel like home.
The Tomb Raider alum has spent decades building an international life. Her children were adopted from and born in various countries. Her humanitarian work spans continents.
Los Angeles was always the outlier in her story, not the center. Come July, when her twins celebrate their 18th birthday, Jolie will finally have the freedom to live accordingly—and by all accounts, that day can’t come soon enough.