After two years of marriage, the couple announced their split in 2016, but it has taken eight years to come to terms mainly due to contentious disputes over custody of their six children and a shared vineyard, Chateau Miraval. Experts highlight that such prolonged proceedings are quite rare and emphasize the complexities and emotional toll involved.
Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt's Prolonged Divorce: What Took Eight Years?

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt's Prolonged Divorce: What Took Eight Years?
The lengthy divorce process between Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt has drawn public curiosity as it has spanned twice the duration of their marriage.
Jolie and Pitt, who met in 2004 on the set of "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" and married in 2014, began their separation amid claims of family tensions and legal struggles. The divorce became infamous for custody battles and disagreements surrounding the ownership of Chateau Miraval, which they purchased together in 2008.
Lawyers note the lengthy duration of the divorce settlement is unusual and indicative of deeper issues. Celebrity divorce attorney Chris Melcher stated, "Eight years is really a sign of something more going on." The high-profile nature of their case, along with their wealth allowing them to retain expensive legal counsel, also differentiates it from the experiences of average couples facing divorce.
While a custody agreement was reached in 2018, it was called into question following further legal challenges. Jolie’s recent sale of her stake in the vineyard to a Russian firm added to the complexity, with Pitt now suing her over the sale, alleging they had agreed not to sell their shares without consent.
In interviews, both have spoken about the impact of their split on their family, with Jolie expressing a desire to prioritize their children's wellbeing. Reports indicate that their children are now navigating the fallout of this lengthy separation, which included a period of joint custody, custody disputes, and ongoing litigation.
Despite the divorce finally approaching an end, the ownership of their once-beloved vineyard continues to be a contentious issue. As the former couple continues to resolve remaining disputes, both appear to be looking toward an uncertain yet hopeful future for themselves and their children.
Lawyers note the lengthy duration of the divorce settlement is unusual and indicative of deeper issues. Celebrity divorce attorney Chris Melcher stated, "Eight years is really a sign of something more going on." The high-profile nature of their case, along with their wealth allowing them to retain expensive legal counsel, also differentiates it from the experiences of average couples facing divorce.
While a custody agreement was reached in 2018, it was called into question following further legal challenges. Jolie’s recent sale of her stake in the vineyard to a Russian firm added to the complexity, with Pitt now suing her over the sale, alleging they had agreed not to sell their shares without consent.
In interviews, both have spoken about the impact of their split on their family, with Jolie expressing a desire to prioritize their children's wellbeing. Reports indicate that their children are now navigating the fallout of this lengthy separation, which included a period of joint custody, custody disputes, and ongoing litigation.
Despite the divorce finally approaching an end, the ownership of their once-beloved vineyard continues to be a contentious issue. As the former couple continues to resolve remaining disputes, both appear to be looking toward an uncertain yet hopeful future for themselves and their children.