At the Gotham Awards on December 2, Angelina Jolie delivered a heartfelt tribute to her late mother, Marcheline Bertrand, during her acceptance speech for the Performer Tribute. The award recognized Jolie’s powerful portrayal of opera singer Maria Callas in the biopic Maria.
During her speech, Jolie spoke about the profound influence her mother had on her life and career. She expressed how meaningful it was to be in New York, the city where Maria Callas was born, on what would have been the legendary singer’s 101st birthday. “It’s wonderful to be here in New York where Maria Callas was born and lived most of her life on what would have been her 101st birthday,” Jolie said, reflecting on the significance of the moment. She continued by honoring the independent filmmakers present at the event, sharing her gratitude for the celebration of creativity and artistic expression.
Jolie fondly recalled her upbringing, sharing how her mother cultivated a love of theater and opera in her from a young age. She described how Bertrand, despite their modest living conditions, made sure to surround her children with books and culture. “I grew up with a mother who kept books inside the oven because there were more books in our house than shelves in our apartment,” Jolie shared. “It was how she solved the problem, while still making sure we were fed. But it was her priority.”
Jolie went on to explain how her mother introduced her to the world of theater and the arts, taking her to the theater and encouraging her to pursue acting. She also mentioned how Bertrand’s influence led her to study at the Lee Strasberg Institute. “She took me to theater. She told me about meeting Tennessee Williams and she introduced me to the Lee Strasberg Institute, where I would later study.”
In closing, Jolie paid tribute to her mother’s legacy, saying, “So in Maria’s memory, thinking of my mom… for all those who teach and inspire art in others, all the young artists growing up and everyone in this room who celebrates creativity and expression, I am really, really honored to be here with all of you and to be a part of this community.”
Jolie’s moving speech at the Gotham Awards highlighted not only her personal connection to the arts but also the enduring influence of her mother, who instilled in her a lifelong passion for creativity and expression.
