Some people may be fascinated by celebrity romances, though I’ve never quite shared that enthusiasm. While it’s understandable to follow the lives of famous figures, I’ve never been particularly interested in their dating lives.

For those who do enjoy it, there’s a new buzz: Angelina Jolie might have a new romantic interest. Once, it seemed unimaginable for her to be with anyone but Brad Pitt, but reports suggest the former couple is now so estranged they can’t stand each other. Since their 2019 divorce, both have kept their dating lives private, perhaps due to the intense fallout or their busy schedules.

Rumors about Brad Pitt dating fashion designer Ines de Ramon began in 2022, with the pair making their red carpet debut at the 2023 Venice International Film Festival. While Pitt seems to be in a serious relationship, Jolie has kept a low profile—until now.

The “Tomb Raider” star sparked dating rumors at the 2024 Venice International Film Festival when she was spotted with British rapper and activist Akala on August 28. The pair were seen leaving a hotel together, quickly igniting online speculation.

Fans reacted with a mix of excitement and disbelief. One fan commented, “I love the idea of Angelina Jolie and Akala together,” while another remarked, “Akala and Angelina Jolie was not what I expected in 2024.”

Akala, a 40-year-old BAFTA and MOBO award-winning artist and social entrepreneur, has been seen with Jolie before, including at the Calabash International Literary Festival in 2023 and in Milan last December.