Angelina Jolie Reflects on Growing Older and How Her Work Is Getting ‘Better’

Angelina Jolie believes her work has improved with age, sharing her reflections in a recent interview while promoting her latest film, Maria. Portraying iconic opera singer Maria Callas, Jolie discussed how life experience has enhanced her craft and the differences between herself and the late singer.

In an interview with The Sunday Times, Jolie, 48, expressed that aging has brought new opportunities and depth to her work. “I’ve received better work as I’ve grown older,” the actress and mother of six stated. She added, “It’s not just about the roles offered but about the life experience you bring to them.”

Jolie noted that acting is more forgiving than physically demanding careers like singing or dancing, where aging can pose greater challenges. Reflecting on Callas’ struggles, Jolie shared her admiration for the singer’s dedication while acknowledging the toll of emotional vulnerability. “Maria is vulnerable because she feels deeply and struggles to shield herself from loneliness and emotional pain. For her, as for me, living through your connection with the audience is vital,” she explained.

Looking back on her early career, Jolie described her intense commitment to roles, often saying yes to everything, from horse riding to learning new languages. However, she avoided method acting, which led her to take a brief step back from acting at one point. “As a young actor, you say yes to everything—you learn as you go,” she shared.

Jolie’s illustrious career includes an Oscar win for Girl, Interrupted (1999) and international stardom through films like Lara Croft: Tomb Raider and Mr. & Mrs. Smith. Her latest role as Maria Callas, exploring the opera legend’s final days in 1970s Paris, is already generating Oscars buzz.

Directed by Pablo Larraín, Maria premiered at the Venice Film Festival to critical acclaim and is set to release on Netflix on December 11. The role marks a new chapter in Jolie’s career, showcasing her ability to bring nuanced, life-informed performances to the screen.

As she continues to redefine her craft, Jolie’s reflections highlight the power of experience and growth in shaping an artist’s journey. With Maria, she not only pays tribute to an icon but also solidifies her own legacy as one of Hollywood’s most versatile and enduring talents.