Hollywood star Angelina Jolie has long been a subject of public fascination, and recent speculation about her personal life has once again placed her in the headlines. Reports suggesting that Jolie, 49, is dating British rapper, author, and historian Akala, 40, have surfaced, but sources close to both parties have clarified the reality behind these rumors.
Despite claims that the two have bonded over their mutual love for history and activism, multiple reports confirm that there is no romantic involvement between them. Instead, they share a friendly and intellectual connection, with Akala already in a committed relationship with his long-term partner, Chanelle Newman.
What Sparked the Rumors?
Speculation about a potential romance between Jolie and Akala began when they were spotted together at several high-profile events, including the London and New York Film Festivals. Their shared enthusiasm for history, culture, and social justice causes led to assumptions that their connection might be more than just professional or friendly.
The rumors intensified when insiders claimed that Akala had introduced Jolie to historical Black British figures like Kelso Cochrane, a key figure in UK history. This fueled further speculation that their discussions went beyond historical topics and hinted at something deeper.
However, sources close to both individuals have denied these rumors, insisting that their relationship is strictly platonic.
No Romantic Connection: What Sources Have Confirmed
Despite the speculation, those with direct knowledge of the situation have provided several key clarifications:
- No Romantic Involvement: Both Jolie and Akala remain focused on their respective careers and humanitarian efforts. Multiple sources have confirmed that their connection is purely intellectual and friendly, with no romantic element.
- Shared Passion for History and Activism: One of the reasons Jolie and Akala have spent time together is their common interest in social justice, history, and advocacy. Akala, known for his work in educating the public about systemic inequalities, has been an influential voice in discussions about race, history, and identity—topics that also align with Jolie’s humanitarian efforts.
- Public Appearances Together: While the two have been seen at various events, sources point out that Akala’s long-term partner, Chanelle Newman, has also been present at these gatherings. This further discredits the speculation that Jolie and Akala are romantically involved.
- Jolie’s Private Life: Angelina Jolie has remained incredibly private about her dating life since her highly publicized divorce from Brad Pitt. While media outlets often speculate about her relationships, she has not publicly confirmed any new romantic involvement.
Who is Akala? A Closer Look at His Background
For those unfamiliar with Akala, his career spans multiple disciplines, including music, literature, and social activism. Born Kingslee James McLean Daley, Akala has built a reputation as one of the UK’s most influential thinkers and cultural figures.
- Music Career: Akala is a renowned rapper, blending hip-hop with insightful social commentary. His music often explores themes of history, racial inequality, and empowerment.
- Author & Historian: He is also an accomplished writer, best known for his bestselling book Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire, which examines race, identity, and British colonial history.
- Activism & Public Speaking: Akala frequently speaks on issues related to education, systemic racism, and history, often appearing at universities and public forums to promote awareness.
Given Jolie’s longstanding commitment to humanitarian work and advocacy, it is not surprising that she and Akala have formed a meaningful friendship based on shared values and interests.
Angelina Jolie’s Focus: Career and Humanitarian Work
Rather than being involved in a new romance, Angelina Jolie remains dedicated to her career and humanitarian efforts.
- Filmmaking & Acting: Jolie continues to take on meaningful film projects, both as an actress and director. She has been involved in projects that highlight social issues, including First They Killed My Father, a film about the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia.
- Advocacy for Refugees: As a UNHCR Special Envoy, Jolie has spent years advocating for displaced people around the world. She regularly visits refugee camps and speaks out about global humanitarian crises.
- Children & Family Life: Much of Jolie’s time is dedicated to her six children—Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, Knox, and Vivienne—whom she has raised to be culturally aware and engaged in important global issues.
With such commitments, it is unlikely that Jolie is actively seeking a high-profile romance, as she remains focused on her professional and humanitarian endeavors.
Why These Rumors Persist
Celebrity rumors, especially involving figures as high-profile as Angelina Jolie, tend to spread rapidly. The entertainment industry and media are always eager to speculate about celebrity relationships, often misinterpreting friendships as romantic involvement.
In this case, the strong intellectual connection between Jolie and Akala may have been misconstrued as something more, especially given their public appearances together. However, the truth remains clear—they are not dating.
Conclusion: Setting the Record Straight
Despite recent speculation, Angelina Jolie and Akala are not romantically involved. Sources close to both individuals have confirmed that their relationship is purely based on mutual respect, shared interests, and a commitment to social justice.
Jolie continues to be deeply involved in her humanitarian work and film career, while Akala remains focused on his music, literature, and activism.
While it is natural for public figures to form meaningful friendships, it is essential to differentiate between speculation and reality. At this time, all reliable sources refute the claims of a romantic relationship between Jolie and Akala, emphasizing instead the value of their intellectual and professional collaborations.
As always, Jolie remains a private and independent figure, choosing to focus on the issues that matter most to her rather than engaging in public discussions about her personal life.
For fans and followers of both Angelina Jolie and Akala, what truly matters is their continued impact on society and their contributions to film, music, and social activism—whether together as friends or individually in their respective fields.