Billy Bob Thornton has finally broken his silence about what really led to his divorce from Angelina Jolie—and his answer left fans stunned.
Once one of Hollywood’s most talked-about and unconventional couples, Thornton and Jolie made headlines in the early 2000s with their matching tattoos, public displays of affection, and even vials of each other’s blood worn around their necks. But just as quickly as it began, the relationship imploded in 2002, with little explanation at the time.
Now, at last, Thornton has confessed what tore them apart—and it had nothing to do with scandal, cheating, or betrayal.
“We Were Just Too Different”
In a candid interview, Billy Bob admitted the harsh truth:
“We had different lifestyles. Hers was global and humanitarian. Mine was... not.”
Thornton said that while Jolie was embracing her rising fame, working with the United Nations, and exploring motherhood and international adoption, he was struggling with his own anxiety, reclusive nature, and discomfort in the spotlight.
“She wanted to save the world, and I just wanted to stay home and watch baseball.”
The Fame Gap
Thornton confessed that despite being a successful actor, he’s never been comfortable with Hollywood’s glitz—and that the overwhelming media attention surrounding Jolie made him feel small and out of place.
“She was growing into this powerful figure, and I felt like I was shrinking.”
At the time, Angelina Jolie had just won an Academy Award and was becoming one of the most recognized and admired women in the world. Thornton, in contrast, said he struggled with insecurity, even though Jolie never made him feel “less than.”
No Bad Blood
Surprisingly, Thornton insisted there was no bitterness, no betrayal, and no dramatic falling out.
“There was never a fight. We never hated each other. We just grew apart. It was that simple—and that sad.”
He still speaks of Jolie with affection and respect, calling her “one of the most incredible people I’ve ever known.”
The Real Regret
Thornton did admit to one major regret—that he wasn’t ready to evolve alongside her.
“If I could go back, I’d tell myself to try harder, to not be so afraid of her world.”
While he’s happily married now and Jolie has built a family and career focused on advocacy, Thornton says that chapter of his life still lingers in his heart.