Angelina Jolie: You do You
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Angelina Jolie Voight, known for her unbelievable beauty and impressive filmography, is also celebrated for something far deeper than her on-screen presence: her dedication to human rights, her open bisexuality, and her commitment to the LGBTQ+ community. In short, her life and career reflect a complex, multi-faceted individual who has never shied away from challenging societal norms and advocating for the outsiders.
Jolie was born into a Hollywood dynasty in 1975, but her path to stardom was far from conventional. Coming from a family deeply rooted in the entertainment industry—her father, Jon Voight, being an Oscar-winning actor—she was always expected to follow in those footsteps. However, Jolie’s journey was one defined by her own unique choices and bold career moves. She made her acting debut in the early 1990s, and soon after, she landed the role of “Gia (1998)”, which would become one of her most iconic performances. She portrayed Gia Carangi, a supermodel who was openly lesbian and one of the first famous faces to die of AIDS. The film highlighted the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the media and provided Jolie with an opportunity to connect with LGBTQ+ stories early in her career.
However, it wasn’t just her on-screen roles that made headlines. Jolie’s candidness about her personal life, including her bisexuality, was groundbreaking for the time. In an industry where celebrities often kept their personal lives, Jolie’s openness about her romantic relationships with both men and women—particularly her romance with model Jenny Shimizu—was a significant moment for bisexual representation. In an interview, she famously said, “I love women and men equally,” affirming that her love transcends traditional gender boundaries. Her openness was groundbreaking during a time when bisexuality was often stigmatized or misunderstood. By speaking openly, Jolie played an important role in normalizing bisexuality in Hollywood, making it easier for others to embrace their identities.
Beyond her personal life, Angelina Jolie has always been a passionate humanitarian. Her career as an activist began early on with her work as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador, a role she later expanded upon as a Special Envoy. Her humanitarian work took her to advocated for refugees and victims of human rights violations for LGBTQ+ individuals who faced persecution due to their sexual orientation. This is a reflection of her broader commitment to human rights. Moreover, as a mother to six children, Jolie has encouraged her children to explore their identities freely. Her daughter, Shiloh, has notably expressed her gender identity in ways that defy traditional norms, and Jolie has been publicly supportive, fostering an environment of acceptance at home. Her inclusive parenting is yet another reflection of her deeply held values.
Overall, Jolie’s commitment to humanitarian causes, as well as her personal life choices, have made her a symbol of LGBTQ+ representation. While she may not always be the loudest voice in direct activism for LGBTQ+ rights, her authenticity, both in her sexuality and her advocacy work, speaks volumes. Her story show the power of being true to oneself and using fame for positive change. Whether she’s on-screen, working as a humanitarian, or standing proudly as a bisexual woman, Angelina Jolie’s journey is one of courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to human dignity. In a world that often shut those who don’t fit into categories, Jolie has proven that embracing one’s authentic self can inspire others and create meaningful change. You do you!
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