Angelina Jolie Shines as Maria Callas, Rejects Idea of a Biopic on Her Own Life

Angelina Jolie, known for her transformative roles as real-life figures like Gia Carangi in Gia and Mariane Pearl in A Mighty Heart, has taken on another challenging portrayal in Maria. The film explores the final days of iconic opera singer Maria Callas, blending memories of her illustrious yet turbulent career. While Jolie is earning buzz as a potential Oscar contender for her performance, the actor has made it clear she has no interest in seeing her own life adapted for the big screen.

When asked by The Sunday Times about a potential Angelina Jolie biopic, she dismissed the idea outright. “That gets the most insane question award,” Jolie remarked. “When you’re a public person and playing someone else, you’re conscious of how you’d hate for someone to interpret your life. Let’s hope there isn’t one about my life.”

To prepare for Maria, Jolie underwent intensive training to perform live opera vocals. Reflecting on the process, she shared with Variety how it became an emotional release. “I walked into the room, took a deep breath, and let out a sound. I started crying,” she admitted. “Singing helped me confront emotions I had been holding onto for years. It became the best therapy I’ve ever had.”

Jolie also revealed how singing forced her to face personal vulnerabilities. “Opera demands full voice and full emotion, leaving no room to hide from your feelings or limitations,” she explained. “I’d even recommend singing lessons over therapy for some—it’s that cathartic.”

With Maria, Jolie continues to push boundaries, bringing authenticity and emotional depth to the screen while exploring her own personal growth through the art of performance.