'Wow She Looks Different': Angelina Jolie, 48, Sparks Heated Stir with New Red Carpet Appearance
Angelina Jolie set the internet abuzz with her recent appearance at a Broadway play. Some thought she was unrecognizable, while others liked the actress' look.
Angelina Jolie during the opening night of "The Outsiders" at The Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre on April 11, 2024, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Angelina Jolie and her daughter Vivienne Jolie-Pitt recently graced the opening night of "The Outsiders." Angelina played a special role as the Broadway production's producer. Similarly, her daughter was also involved in the project.
Vivienne Jolie-Pitt and Angelina Jolie during the opening night of "The Outsiders" at The Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre on April 11, 2024, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Angelina donned a striking gold dress for the evening, complemented by a tan drape-like cardigan. Her golden blonde hair flowed freely, and her vibrant red lipstick added a touch of glamour.
Angelina Jolie during the opening night of "The Outsiders" at The Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre on April 11, 2024, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Although gorgeous, her appearance sparked a heated discussion across various social media platforms. Fans and critics alike had diverse comments about Angelina's new look. On Instagram, one user remarked, "Angelina looks different- or am I crazy?"
Angelina Jolie during the opening night of "The Outsiders" at The Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre on April 11, 2024, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Others echoed these sentiments, with comments ranging from "She looks healthy now" to "It looks like she gained weight? And I'm not meaning it in a bad way her face looks fuller [sic]."
The debate continued with another onlooker questioning, "That doesn't even look like Angelina Jolie? Did she have work done?" Meanwhile, a simple statement noted, "Angelina looks strange."
Angelina Jolie during the opening night of "The Outsiders" at The Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre on April 11, 2024, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
However, not all feedback was skeptical or critical. On TikTok, some users praised her refreshed appearance, commenting, "Stunner. The blonde and the bounce just totally brightens her up."
Justin Levine, Vivienne Jolie-Pitt and Angelina Jolie during the opening night of "The Outsiders" at The Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre on April 11, 2024, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Another suggested, "She's much younger here maybe that's why." The diverse reactions highlight people's opinions about celebrities' changing looks.
Angelina Jolie during the opening night of "The Outsiders" at The Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre on April 11, 2024, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
It wasn't long ago when Angelina debuted her new blonde hair color and had the internet divided. We previously reported that the 48-year-old actress was seen leaving her retail space with the fresh hairstyle that has fans divided.
Fans have mixed feelings about Angelina's new hairdo. One fan said, "Blonde doesn't suit her!! Only brown hair is for her." Another fan chimed in, "Blonde is not flattering on her." But not everyone agrees. A user commented, "She looks gorg [sic] with both colors."
Angelina Jolie, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
Then there's the debate on whether her new style ages her.“Her hair makes her look older,” said one fan. But some think differently. Another fan argued, "It covers the gray hair better and looks less harsh."
Angelina debuted her blonde locks and accessorized with a designer bag featuring a quote from one of her movies, "Girl, Interrupted". The bag, adorned with the words "Some I've seen. Some never again. But there isn't a day my heart doesn't find them," is a subtle nod to the character of Susanna from the film.
Zahara Jolie-Pitt and Angelina Jolie leaving Atelier Jolie on December 29, 2023, in New York, New York. | Source: Getty Images
Angelina was captured with new hair as she exited Atelier Jolie, the retail space she recently opened in New York City's SoHo district. Atelier Jolie is a testament to Angelina's commitment to ethical and sustainable fashion.
Jolie's hub "Atelier Jolie", 2024 | Source: Getty Images
The space is a hub for collaboration. It features tailoring and upcycling services alongside a gallery showcasing the work of local artisans. It also has a cafe inside, run in partnership with refugee organizations. This further highlights the star's dedication to social causes.
Angelina Jolie and Pax Thien Jolie-Pitt, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
Angelina tried to create a space where creativity and community intersect. A place where individuals can express themselves authentically without succumbing to trends. As she explained, "I don’t want to be a big fashion designer. I want to build a house for other people to become that."
Angelina Jolie's Atelier Jolie clothing store in the East Village on December 7, 2023, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
"I've met a lot of artisans over the years—very capable, talented people—and I'd like to see them grow," said Angelina. Her list of collaborators includes London-based milliner Justin Smith, American artist Duke Riley, and South African lacemaker Pierre Fouche.
Angelina's recent hairstyle transformation, along with the launch of her new business, signifies the start of a new chapter for the iconic actress.
Angelina Jolie in the East Village on December 27, 2023, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
However, fans were quick to draw parallels between Angelina Jolie’s new look and Jennifer Aniston's renowned "Friends" hairstyle, famously known as "The Rachel." Jennifer is also the ex-wife of Angelina's ex, Brad Pitt.
Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt at the "Rock Star" at the Mann Village Theater in Los Angeles in 2001 | Source: Getty Images
This hairstyle became a cultural phenomenon in the 90s, synonymous with Jennifer's character, Rachel Green, on the beloved sitcom. The resemblance did not go unnoticed. Many commented on the similarity. "She got that Jennifer Aniston hairstyle," one fan remarked. This observation led to a flurry of discussions across various media platforms.
Jennifer Aniston filming "The Morning Show" in September 2022 | Source: Getty Images
While some fans found humor in the resemblance, suggesting Angelina could never eclipse Jennifer's iconic look, others defended the "Maleficent" star. A supporter pointed out that Angelina is naturally blonde, unlike Aniston.
Angelina Jolie in New York, circa 2022 | Source: Getty Images
Another fan expressed confusion over why the similarity was considered amusing by some. The person emphasized that Angelina's choice to go blonde should be seen as nothing more than a personal style preference.
Angelina Jolie in the East Village on August 20, 2023 in New York City | Source: Getty Images
Regardless of her hairstyle, Angelina remains one of the most beautiful Hollywood stars. Still, she is well aware that she cannot escape aging. She previously expressed a poignant acceptance and even anticipation of growing older.
Angelina Jolie is seen on August 19, 2023 in New York City | Source: Getty Images
At 48, Angelina acknowledged the inevitable changes that come with age. She views them not as a decline, but as a cherished progression of life. Her perspective on aging is deeply personal and reflects a sense of triumph. Her mentality is partly influenced by her mother's early death. The tragedy shaped her understanding of aging as a privilege rather than a misfortune.
Angelina Jolie seen at The Eternals - UK film premiere afterparty at Maison Estelle on October 27, 2021 in London, England | Source: Getty Images
"I do like being older," Angelina shared. "I feel much more comfortable in my forties than I did when I was younger. Maybe because [...] my mom didn't live very long, so there's something about age that feels like a victory instead of a sadness for me.".
Knox Jolie-Pitt, Angelina Jolie and Vivienne Jolie-Pitt are seen upon arrival at Haneda Airport on June 21, 2014 in Tokyo, Japan | Source: Getty Images
She also sees her mother in herself, which gives her warmth. This recognition of her mother's features in her own reflection is a source of comfort and a reminder of her heritage and the passage of time. Through her journey, Angelina has not only maintained her beauty but has also deepened the grace with which she carries it.
Her outlook on aging transcends superficial concerns. It focuses instead on personal growth and familial bonds. This approach endears her further to fans who admire her resilience and authenticity. In addition, it sets a powerful example of how to face aging with dignity and positivity.