Angelina Jolie has taken a deeply personal step by publicly revealing the scars from her preventive double mastectomy for the first time, more than a decade after undergoing the procedure. The actress, now 50, appeared on the inaugural cover of TIME France and spoke candidly about why she chose to share this part of her health journey and what it means to her and many women worldwide.
Background: The Preventive Surgeries
Jolie first announced her decision to have a double mastectomy in 2013, after learning she carried a genetic risk factor that significantly increased her likelihood of developing breast cancer. Years earlier, she had watched her mother succumb to breast and ovarian cancer, experiences that deeply influenced her own approach to health and prevention. In 2015, she also had her ovaries and fallopian tubes surgically removed to reduce her risk of ovarian cancer. At the time of her surgeries, Jolie described the decisions as difficult but ultimately life‑saving, and she used her platform to raise awareness about genetic testing and early intervention. Her openness has been linked to increased public interest in cancer screening and genetics, a phenomenon often referred to as the “Angelina Effect.”
Why Now? The Message Behind the Reveal
Despite having the surgeries more than a decade ago, Jolie had never shown the surgical marks publicly until this moment. In her interview with TIME France, she said she chose to share her scars because she feels a bond with women who have similar stories. “I share these scars with many women I love,” she explained, adding that she is moved when others share theirs, too. Her decision was not about seeking attention, but about solidarity, awareness, and empowerment. By pairing the images with candid discussions of prevention and screening, she hopes to encourage more women to make informed healthcare decisions based on their own circumstances.
A Focus on Health, Not Just Celebrity
Jolie’s choice resonates beyond celebrity culture because it highlights issues that affect millions of women globally. Breast health, access to genetic testing, and cancer prevention remain challenges in many regions, particularly where medical resources are limited. Jolie stressed the importance of making genetic screening and preventive care accessible and affordable for all women, regardless of income or location. Her story underscores a key point: proactive healthcare and early detection can be life‑changing. By putting a human face on these medical choices, she hopes to spark broader conversations about prevention, stigma, and the realities many women face when confronting cancer risk.
The Impact of Her Advocacy
Jolie’s original public announcement in 2013 led to a marked increase in awareness about genetic mutations linked to cancer, prompting more people to consider testing and screening. This effect appears to have carried forward, with her latest revelations drawing fresh attention to the ongoing importance of women’s health resources and education. By sharing her scars now, she adds depth to her earlier message — emphasizing that survivorship, resilience, and knowledge matter just as much as preventive choices themselves. Her advocacy continues to encourage women to embrace their bodies and their stories with confidence and awareness.
Looking Ahead
Beyond this moment, Jolie’s career remains active. She is involved in upcoming projects, including a film called Couture, which itself explores themes related to illness, identity, and strength — echoing parts of her own experience. Her choice to share such personal details at this stage of her life serves as a reminder that health decisions are deeply personal and often complex. By using her platform for advocacy and connection, Jolie continues to make a powerful impact on conversations around health, family, and choice.
