In a candid revelation, actress Angelina Jolie disclosed a harrowing episode from her early 20s when she contemplated ending her life by hiring a hitman. This dark period was marked by profound mental health struggles, leading her to believe that orchestrating her own murder would spare her loved ones the pain of a suicide. However, an unexpected question from the hired individual became a pivotal moment that ultimately saved her life.
A Desperate Plan Conceived in Darkness
At the age of 22, Jolie grappled with severe emotional turmoil. In a 2001 interview, she admitted, “This is going to sound insane but there was a time I was going to hire somebody to kill me.” Her rationale was rooted in the belief that her family would find it easier to cope with her death if it appeared as a murder rather than a suicide. To avoid suspicion, she meticulously planned to withdraw cash in small amounts to pay the hitman without drawing attention.
The Hitman’s Life-Saving Question
Jolie located a hitman in New York and approached him with her plan. Instead of accepting the contract, the hitman posed a question that would alter the course of her life: he asked her to think about it and suggested she call him again in two months if she still felt the same way. This unexpected response prompted Jolie to reflect deeply on her decision. “Something changed in my life and I figured I’d stick it out,” she later recounted.
A Journey Toward Healing and Purpose
Following this turning point, Jolie embarked on a path of healing and self-discovery. She channeled her experiences into her acting career, taking on roles that resonated with her personal struggles. In a 2011 interview, she reflected, “I went through heavier, darker times and I survived them. I didn’t die young, so I’m very lucky.” Her journey also included significant humanitarian work, advocating for refugees and serving as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador.
Motherhood: A New Chapter
Becoming a mother marked a transformative chapter in Jolie’s life. Adopting her first child, Maddox, in 2002, she found a renewed sense of purpose. “Having children saved me—and taught me to be in this world differently,” she shared in a 2020 interview. Her role as a mother to six children became a cornerstone of her identity, providing her with strength and motivation to continue her advocacy and personal growth.
Reflecting on the Past with Gratitude
Jolie’s openness about her past struggles serves as a testament to her resilience and growth. By sharing her story, she aims to destigmatize mental health issues and encourage others to seek help. Her journey underscores the importance of compassion, both from others and toward oneself, in overcoming life’s darkest moments.
Conclusion
Angelina Jolie’s story is a powerful reminder of the struggles many face silently and the importance of hope and support during dark times. Her willingness to share such a personal experience sheds light on mental health challenges and the unexpected ways help can arrive—even from the most unlikely sources. Jolie’s journey from despair to healing and purpose highlights resilience, showing that reaching out and reflecting can truly save lives.
