Angelina Jolie’s rise to fame was not without its challenges. The Oscar-winning actress recently shared the struggles she faced early in her career, revealing that she was rejected over 100 times before finding success in Hollywood.
At the start of her acting journey, Jolie faced harsh criticism from casting directors who told her she was “too dark” and “too ethnic.”
“I think I started auditioning around 16 or 17, and… I was just never that girl,” Jolie explained in a Backstage interview. “I was always told that I was too dark.”
The actress also recalled a period when she was told she was “too ethnic,” noting how strange it felt in hindsight. “Isn’t that strange? Now I am not ethnic enough on occasion,” she reflected.
Despite the repeated rejection, Jolie did not allow it to discourage her. She and her mother kept a record of her auditions, noting the numerous times she was turned down. However, rather than allowing those setbacks to hinder her, Jolie embraced her unique qualities and persevered, refusing to give up on her dreams.
Today, Angelina Jolie’s career is nothing short of impressive. She continues to captivate audiences with her performances, and her latest role in Maria has already sparked speculation about a potential Academy Award nomination in 2025.
Jolie’s journey serves as an inspiring reminder that perseverance and embracing one’s individuality can lead to success, even in the face of repeated rejection.
