Summary Answer
Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt began dating around early 2005 and confirmed their relationship publicly in early 2006. They remained together until separating in April 2016, a widely reported split backed by their attorneys. This period spans roughly 11 years from the start of their relationship to their separation, including about 2 years from public confirmation to their breakup. They share six children and were one of Hollywood’s most prominent couples prior to their highly publicized separation.
Key Timeline
Start of Relationship
They began dating in early 2005 after meeting on the set of Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005). Reports from outlets such as People and confirmed by statements from representatives place the start of their relationship during the film’s production.
Public Acknowledgment
By early 2006, the couple appeared together at events and confirmed their relationship to the press. They welcomed their first child, Shiloh Nouvel Jolie-Pitt, in May 2006.
High-Profile Milestones
Throughout the late 2000s and early 2010s, Jolie and Pitt starred together in Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005), had six children, and remained a consistently visible power-couple in media.
Separation
In April 2016, People reported that the couple had separated. Both issued statements through their attorneys confirming the split and indicating a private decision focused on their children.
Verified Timeline Table
| Date or Period | Event | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Early 2005 | Relationship begins on set of Mr. & Mrs. Smith | Origin point for their private romance |
| Early 2006 | Relationship publicly acknowledged; first child Shiloh born | Transition to a visible public partnership |
| 2006–2015 | High-profile collaborative career and family building | Peak public visibility as a power couple |
| April 2016 | Separation confirmed by representatives | End of romantic relationship; ongoing co-parenting focus |
Duration and Context
Counting from early 2005 to April 2016, Angelina and Brad were together for approximately 11 years. About 2 of those years were marked by public acknowledgment and intense media attention after early 2006. Their relationship timeline is best understood as a long-term partnership that transitioned from private courtship to a publicly documented family unit, followed by a deliberate separation focused on their children’s well-being.
Public vs Private Phases
For roughly the first year, their romance remained largely private, limited to set interactions and trusted circles. By 2006, red carpet appearances and joint interviews signaled a shift into the public eye. Subsequent years included collaborations on major films and humanitarian work, amplifying their shared public presence while maintaining aspects of family privacy.
Co-Parenting After Separation
Despite the romantic breakup, Jolie and Pitt have continued to co-parent their six children. Legal arrangements prioritize stability for the children, and both parents have publicly emphasized commitment to their family unit in a non-romantic context.
Common Misconceptions
- They were married: No. While rumors occasionally surface, neither pursued matrimony.
- Their split was abrupt: Reports indicate a private, consensual separation after years of partnership.
- They have no ongoing contact: They remain co-parents, requiring continued communication about their children.
FAQs
When did Angelina and Brad start dating?
Early 2005, during production of Mr. & Mrs. Smith.
When did they go public?
Early 2006, with joint appearances and confirmation by representatives.
How many children do they have together?
Six: Shiloh, Pax, Zahara, Knox, Vivienne, and Maddox.
Did they ever get married?
No. They were never married.
When did they separate?
April 2016, following a joint decision reported by People magazine.
