Angelina Jolie, the Oscar-winning actress and globally recognized humanitarian, has long been a subject of public intrigue when it comes to her personal life.
Now, rumors of her romantic involvement with British rapper, activist, and author Akala have intensified after his unexpected appearance on her official social media account for Atelier Jolie, her creative company.
Fans and followers are buzzing with speculation as Jolie appears to be offering a subtle yet significant glimpse into their relationship.
The rumors, which began circulating in May of last year, gained momentum when Akala was spotted in a discreet appearance on Atelier Jolie’s Instagram page.
The post, which was shared over the weekend, featured Akala attending a private event hosted by Jolie in New York City.
Akala, 40, was seen mingling with other attendees just before images of Jolie herself appeared in the Instagram carousel, sparking discussion that this was no ordinary guest appearance.
The event, which took place at Atelier Jolie’s showroom on Great Jones Street, featured a special listening party and panel discussion for Mustafa, a rising artist whose debut album, Dunya, was the centerpiece of the night.
The caption of the post reads: “Atelier Jolie welcomed Mustafa at 57 Great Jones, hosting a special listening party and panel discussion for his debut album, Dunya, out now…Join us in celebrating this stunning 12-song collection, where folk meets poetry.”
While Mustafa may have been the official focus of the event, fans quickly zeroed in on the presence of Akala, seated among the audience.
The British rapper kept it casual in a black crew neck T-shirt, in contrast to Jolie’s more formal grey suit and black boots.
Jolie, 49, looked poised as she interviewed Mustafa, her hair flowing freely as she conversed in front of the captivated crowd.
But Akala’s appearance at the Atelier Jolie event wasn’t an isolated incident. Just two days prior, he attended the prestigious New York Film Festival for the premiere of Jolie’s latest directorial venture, Maria, at Alice Tully Hall in Lincoln Center.
Although he wasn’t photographed on the red carpet, sources confirmed that he was present, lending further credence to their growing connection.
The connection between Jolie and Akala was first sparked during an unexpected sighting in May 2023.
The pair were spotted together at the Calabash Literary Festival in Jamaica, accompanied by Jolie’s daughters, Zahara, 19, and Shiloh, 18.
Witnesses noted that Akala seemed especially protective, guiding Jolie and her daughters through the festival.
It was a significant moment, as Akala’s calm demeanor and attentiveness suggested a level of familiarity with the family.
An eyewitness later commented, “He was very protective of them as he shepherded them around.”
In the months that followed, the whispers of a potential romance grew louder. In November 2023, In Touch magazine reported that Jolie and Akala shared a quiet dinner together in Milan, further fueling speculation.
While neither party has officially commented on their relationship, the evidence is mounting that there is more than a professional connection between them.
For those unfamiliar with Akala, his appeal extends far beyond the music industry. Born Kingslee James Daley, Akala has built a career as not only a rapper but also an acclaimed author, social activist, and intellectual.
Known for his thoughtful lyrics that often touch on themes of social justice, colonialism, and identity, Akala’s work has earned him a distinct place in British culture.
He is the author of the bestselling book Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire, which blends personal experiences with historical analysis of race and inequality in the UK.
It’s easy to see why someone like Jolie, who has spent decades advocating for humanitarian causes around the world, might be drawn to Akala’s unique mix of artistry and activism.
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Both are passionate about using their platforms to create change and challenge the status quo. Their shared values make for a natural alignment, even as their rumored romance continues to pique public interest.
Since her high-profile divorce from Brad Pitt in 2016, Angelina Jolie has remained relatively private about her personal relationships.
However, the public’s fascination with her love life has never waned. Her rumored connection with Akala represents a new chapter for the actress, one that blends her creative endeavors with the personal.
Jolie has spoken openly in the past about her desire for meaningful partnerships. In a 2021 interview with The Guardian, she reflected on the importance of surrounding herself with people who inspire her.
“I want people who are strong and who believe in themselves, and who are kind, and who are tolerant,” she said. While she didn’t name Akala in the interview, the description certainly fits the British rapper’s public persona.
As for what the future holds for Jolie and Akala, only time will tell.
The couple has yet to make any official announcements, but their public appearances together—and now Akala’s appearance on Jolie’s Instagram—suggest that the relationship is blossoming behind the scenes.
In the world of celebrity relationships, public confirmation is often elusive. But as fans continue to piece together the clues, Jolie and Akala’s subtle, carefully curated reveals are telling a story of their own.
Whether or not they choose to publicly acknowledge their relationship, their shared moments have already captured the imagination of many.
For now, the world waits with bated breath to see where this intriguing new chapter in Angelina Jolie’s life will lead.
