Angelina Jolie visits Battambang, deepens Cambodia ties

PHNOM PENH, April 2, 2026 (KPT) — Hollywood star Angelina Jolie visited Samlout High School in Battambang province to observe students’ learning conditions and dormitory facilities, Cambodia’s education ministry said Wednesday.

Jolie’s connection to Cambodia spans more than two decades. She first arrived in 2000 while filming Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, which helped introduce Angkor Wat to a global audience. In 2002 she adopted her son Maddox from Cambodia, and three years later was granted citizenship.

In 2006, she established the Maddox Jolie-Pitt Foundation in Battambang’s Samlout district, focusing on conservation, public health and local livelihoods. She has remained active in humanitarian work in the country and in 2023 revealed she had considered settling there.

Recent reports suggest the 51-year-old actress has listed her Los Angeles home for sale and may be preparing for a new chapter, potentially including a move to Cambodia. Entertainment outlet People quoted a source saying Jolie is “preparing to start a completely new chapter” beyond Los Angeles.

Earlier reports indicated Jolie had long intended to live abroad but remained in Los Angeles due to custody arrangements with her former husband Brad Pitt. With her youngest children nearing adulthood, she is now exploring relocation options overseas.