Inside Angelina Jolie's speculated romance with mystery man after Venice Film Festival appearance

VENICE, ITALY: Angelina Jolie has ignited relationship rumors with British rapper Akala after the pair were spotted leaving her hotel together in Italy during the Venice International Film Festival.

Following the 49-year-old actress's appearance with the rapper in Venice, fans began speculating about their relationship status. A source told In Touch that they have been seeing each other for over a year, per Hello.

However, another source confirmed to People that despite sharing multiple common interests, the pair is not romantically involved.

What is cooking between Angelina Jolie and Akala?

Amid her ongoing legal battle with Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie has sparked romance rumors with 40-year-old musician Akala, who shares her deep passion for humanitarian causes, per Daily Mail.

However, a source told People that Jolie is not dating Akala. The 'Mr and Mrs Smith' actress is actually friends with him and his partner, Chanelle Newman, who was also present at the Film Festival.

The pair, however, share a strong bond. Another source noted, “'They share the same passion when it comes to social and humanitarian causes.”

“They did several collabs over the years that focus on global issues like human rights. Angie speaks very highly of him,” continued the source.

Though In Touch’s source claimed they have been seeing each other for a year, sources speaking to People clarified that the 'Maleficent' actress is "currently single and not dating seriously."

The actress was previously married to Brad Pitt, but the couple decided to separate after a pivotal flight from France to the US in 2016.

Following their contentious divorce, the former couple continues to be locked in a legal battle regarding their ownership of the French winery of Chateau Miraval.

Who is Akala?

Akala, whose real name is Kingslee James McLean Daley, is a British rapper who later became known for his political activism.

A vocal advocate for social justice, Akala endorsed former Labour MP Jeremy Corbyn during the 2017 UK general election.

The romance speculation between Akala and Jolie first surfaced in May 2023, when he joined the ‘By the Sea’ actress and her daughters Zahara, 19, and Shiloh, 18, at the Calabash Literary Festival in Jamaica.

At that event, reports indicated that Akala was “very protective” of Jolie’s daughters as he guided them around.

Six months later, it was reported by In Touch that they were seen dining together in Milan.