Brad Pitt Details First AA Meeting After ‘Difficult’ Angelina Jolie Divorce: I Was ‘On My Knees’
In the latest episode of Dax Shepard’s “Armchair Expert” podcast, Brad Pitt opens up about his journey through Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) following his challenging divorce from Angelina Jolie. The actor describes AA as “an amazing thing,” highlighting how it provides a safe space for men to share their experiences, mistakes, and, importantly, humor within a supportive community.
Facing Vulnerability: Pitt’s First AA Meeting
Pitt, now 61 years old, recalls the apprehension he felt before attending his first AA meeting, revealing an unexpected side full of vulnerability. He describes a poignant moment where he felt “on my knees” and “open,” navigating this difficult phase of his life with careful introspection. His initial fears soon transformed into appreciation as he started to value the genuine sharing that takes place in these meetings. Over time, what began as a daunting experience became something he eagerly anticipated.
A Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth
Reflecting on his experiences, Pitt expressed a sense of urgency for personal change, saying, “I needed rebooting. I needed to wake the f–k up in some areas.” He underscored the significance of assuming responsibility for his actions and learning valuable lessons from past missteps. His view of therapy has also evolved; instead of seeing it as a burden, he now considers it a vital opportunity for growth and self-improvement.
Navigating Life Post-Divorce
The conversation veered into his long and highly publicized divorce from Angelina Jolie, which was finalized in December after an intense eight-year legal battle. Their relationship, which started in 2005 during the filming of “Mr. & Mrs. Smith,” attracted significant media attention, particularly since Pitt was still married to Jennifer Aniston at the time. Jolie’s decision to file for divorce in 2016 was reportedly influenced by an incident on a plane involving their children, intensifying the public’s scrutiny on their family dynamics.
Pitt remarked on the crucial role that openness in therapy plays in his ongoing personal development. He emphasized that both AA meetings and professional therapy have become fundamental components of his life. Currently, he is dating Ines de Ramon, indicating that while he is continuing to navigate personal challenges, he is also focusing on growth and restoring balance in his life.
Overall, Pitt’s reflections reveal an inspiring journey of self-discovery and resilience. His story serves as a reminder of the significance of support networks during life’s adversities, encouraging others to seek help and embrace the path to personal transformation.
