Angelina Jolie debuts bangs in first event after divorce, honors her children while receiving award

PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA: Angelina Jolie made her first public appearance following the conclusion of her eight-year divorce battle with Brad Pitt, stepping onto the red carpet of the Palm Springs Film Festival on January 3.

Jolie stunned in a silky black halter gown paired with her new side bangs and long blonde locks and was joined by her daughter Zahara, 19, who wore a white gown with her hair slicked back in a sleek ponytail.

The event marked a significant moment for Jolie, whose divorce was finalized on December 30, 2024, closing a chapter that began in 2016.

Angelina Jolie's heartfelt dedication to her children

While accepting the Desert Palm Achievement Award for her portrayal of opera singer Maria Callas in Pablo Larraín’s Netflix biopic 'Maria', Angelina Jolie reflected on the duality of Callas’ life and its parallels to her own experiences.

“There was Maria and there was Callas; Callas was loved, but Maria was often alone,” she said.

“But I’m around today because when I walk off this stage, I am more myself because of you, Zahara, and your brothers and sisters. I love you,” she shared, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Her emotional tribute highlighted the central role her six children play in her life.

Jolie and Pitt share kids Maddox, 23, Pax, 21, Zahara, Shiloh, 18, and twins Vivienne and Knox, 16.

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt's long legal battle

Angelina Jolie’s appearance comes just days after her lawyer, James Simon, confirmed the finalization of her divorce from Brad Pitt.

The settlement ended an exhaustive legal process spanning more than eight years, involving custody arrangements and property disputes.

Speaking about the former couple, Jolie's lawyer Simon said, “More than eight years ago, Angelina filed for divorce from Mr Pitt. She and the children left all of the properties they had shared with Mr Pitt, and since that time she has focused on finding peace and healing for their family."

"This is just one part of a long ongoing process that started eight years ago. Frankly, Angelina is exhausted, but she is relieved this one part is over," Simon told People.

An insider shared that Jolie "doesn’t speak ill of [Pitt] publicly or privately."

"She’s been trying hard to be light after a dark time," they added, according to OK! Magazine.

The divorce was filed by the 49-year-old after she claimed Pitt was allegedly abusive to her and their children in an airplane.