Angelina Jolie reflected on the role of her late mom Marcheline Bertrand in her life and success.
The actress delivered a heartfelt tribute to her mother, while accepting the Performer Tribute Award at the 2024 Gotham Awards.
The ceremony took place on December 2 at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City, where Jolie was honoured for playing opera singer Maria Callas in the acclaimed film Maria.
Reflecting on her upbringing, Jolie, 49, shared how Bertrand’s love for the arts shaped her.
“I grew up with a mother who kept books inside the oven because there were more books in our house than shelves in the apartment we had,” she recalled.
“And it was how she solved the problem, while still making sure we were fed. But it was her priority.”
Bertrand, who passed away in 2007 from ovarian cancer at the age of 56, introduced Jolie to the arts early on.
“[My mom] took me to the theater. She told me about meeting Tennessee Williams, and she introduced me to the Lee Strasberg Institute, where I would later study,” Jolie shared, adding, “I now experience the joy of seeing my own daughter love theater and get involved.”
Jolie also acknowledged her youngest daughter, Vivienne, 16, who helped produce The Outsiders musical, which won Best Musical at the 2024 Tony Awards.
“For many of us, these early influences are what nurture us and shape us as artists and people, and it is so important,” Jolie said.
She emphasized the critical role of arts education, adding, “It’s why it’s so important that art is taught in our schools — and so concerning that many of those programs are being reduced.”
Jolie concluded her speech with gratitude for her mother and others dedicated to fostering creativity.
“In Maria’s memory, thinking of my mom,” she said, “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.”
