Angelina Jolie on Dating, Deal-Breakers, and Why She’s in No Rush for Romance

In the glittering world of Hollywood, Angelina Jolie remains one of its most enigmatic stars — an Oscar-winning actor, humanitarian, and mother of six whose life off-screen is as compelling as her work on it. But in a candid 2021 interview, Jolie revealed a lighter, more personal side, joking that she now has a “very long list” of relationship deal-breakers and admitting, with a laugh, that she’s “been alone too long.”

A Long List — and a Clear Sense of Self

Speaking to E! News’ Daily Pop, Jolie didn’t shy away from acknowledging her high standards when it comes to dating. “I probably have a very long list,” she said, smiling. “I’ve been alone for a long time now.” While playful on the surface, the remark reflects a deeper self-awareness — one shaped by years of personal evolution following her 2016 split from Brad Pitt.

After a 12-year relationship and two years of marriage, Jolie found herself navigating a very public divorce and a protracted custody battle over her six children. In that time, she’s developed a clear-eyed understanding of her needs, boundaries, and what she refuses to compromise on. In an industry often dominated by superficial connections, Jolie’s willingness to articulate those standards is as much about self-respect as it is about romance.

Resilience in Solitude

For Jolie, the years since her divorce haven’t been about chasing love — they’ve been about family and healing. Speaking to British Vogue, she described the period as “pretty hard,” noting her focus was on “healing our family” rather than finding a new partner. Her quip about being “alone too long” may have been delivered with humor, but it’s rooted in resilience: the ability to stand independently, embrace solitude, and use it as a space for personal growth.

Raising her six children — Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, and twins Vivienne and Knox — has been at the center of that journey. She describes them as “very capable” and attentive, noting with affection that they often check to make sure “Mom’s OK.” This mutual care highlights a home built on trust, love, and shared responsibility.

Family First, Always

Jolie’s approach to dating is shaped by her deep commitment to her family. She isn’t interested in introducing fleeting relationships into their lives — any potential partner must align with her values and respect the bond she shares with her children. Her “long list” of deal-breakers isn’t cynicism; it’s a reflection of her unwillingness to compromise the life she has worked so hard to build.

Her past relationships with Jonny Lee Miller, Billy Bob Thornton, and Brad Pitt have given her both lessons and clarity. Now, she chooses to prioritize authenticity, seeking meaningful connections over the convenience of companionship.

A Life Beyond the Spotlight

Jolie’s openness about her solitude and her dating standards adds another dimension to her public persona. It shows a woman unafraid to embrace vulnerability, who has emerged from personal challenges with her integrity intact. Whether she chooses to date again soon or remain focused on her family and humanitarian work, Jolie’s self-awareness, resilience, and grounded priorities set her apart in an industry that often thrives on artifice.

For now, the “long list” stays — and so does the sense that Angelina Jolie will write her next chapter on her own terms, with courage, clarity, and the same fierce independence that has defined her life and career.