Angelina Jolie plans to leave US in July, cites lack of recognition for her country

The 'Eternals' star says she no longer recognizes the United States and is eyeing several locations abroad to raise her family.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Angelina Jolie has been waiting for her twins, Vivienne and Knox, to turn 18 on July 12 before making a long-considered move abroad. The 50-year-old actress 'never wanted to live in L.A. full-time' and has been critical of the current state of the United States, saying 'I love my country, but at this time, I don't recognize my country.' Jolie has a history with Cambodia, where she adopted her first child, and plans to spend more time there as well as visiting other family members around the world.

Why it matters

Jolie's decision to leave the US reflects a growing sentiment among some public figures who feel the country has changed in ways they no longer recognize or support. Her high-profile move abroad could inspire similar actions from others disillusioned with the current state of the US, raising questions about the country's ability to retain top talent and influential voices.

The details

Jolie has been waiting for her twins, Vivienne and Knox, to reach adulthood before making a long-considered move abroad. 'She's eyeing several locations abroad,' a source said, adding 'She'll be very happy when she's able to leave Los Angeles.' Jolie's decision is rooted in her desire to provide more privacy, peace, and safety for her large family. She has a history with Cambodia, where she adopted her first child, Maddox, in 2002, and plans to spend more time there as well as visiting other family members around the world.

  • Vivienne and Knox, the youngest of Jolie's six kids, turn 18 on July 12.
  • Jolie adopted her first child, Maddox, from Cambodia in 2002.

The players

Angelina Jolie

A 50-year-old American actress known for films like 'Mr. and Mrs. Smith' and 'Eternals.' She has been outspoken in her criticism of the current state of the United States and is planning to move abroad with her family.

Vivienne and Knox

Jolie's twins who are turning 18 in July, prompting her long-considered move abroad.

Maddox

Jolie's first adopted child, whom she adopted from Cambodia in 2002, sparking her long-standing connection to the country.

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What they’re saying

“I love my country, but at this time, I don't recognize my country.”

— Angelina Jolie (Variety)

“When you have a big family, you want them to have privacy, peace, safety.”

— Angelina Jolie (The Hollywood Reporter)

What’s next

Jolie's move abroad is expected to take place after her twins turn 18 in July, though the specific location she plans to relocate to has not been confirmed.

The takeaway

Jolie's decision to leave the US reflects a growing trend of public figures and influencers expressing disillusionment with the current state of the country, raising questions about the nation's ability to retain top talent and diverse perspectives as more individuals seek greener pastures abroad.