‘A friend where you can laugh and cry’

Since her split from Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie’s life has been making headlines. But behind the scenes, a surprising source of support and transformation has emerged. What started as a friendship forged on the set of ‘Eternals’ in 2021 has blossomed into one of Hollywood’s most talked-about bonds.

Salma Hayek has reportedly been a genuine friend in Angelina’s life, and fans got a glimpse of this fresh dynamic when the pair were spotted boarding a commercial flight together from Mexico City to Veracruz in mid-July, which was definitely a rare low-key outing for two A-listers who usually travel private.

The duo acted just like ordinary best friends, talking with fans and posing for photos. The warmth between them isn’t just personal. Professionally, the admiration runs deep. After starring in Jolie’s directorial project ‘Without Blood’ (2022), Hayek praised Angelina as “the best director I’ve ever worked with,” calling it “one of the best” she’s seen. 

Jolie, in turn, described Hayek as “one of the greatest gifts that came with this movie” during a 2021 interview on Ventaneando, calling her “my sister,” “brilliant, kind, and wonderful.”

© Salma Hayek

Their friendship truly broke through during Hayek’s birthday celebration when Jolie participated in Mexico’s playful “mordida” tradition, pushing the birthday person’s face into the cake. “Yes, I was there. You guys have some very unusual traditions in Mexico,” Jolie laughed. “It was a little hard for me at first, but now I feel like I owe her one for my birthday.”

© Deadline

This bond extends beyond friendship and film. Their recent trip to Veracruz, Hayek’s hometown, sparked rumors about potential projects. The actresses were greeted by Veracruz’s Secretary of Culture and Governor Rocío Nahle, fueling speculation about a film or cultural collaboration spotlighting Mexican heritage. 

© Penske Media via Getty Images

In an interview with People in 2024, Hayek reflected on their closeness: “We do things together as a family… hang out sometimes with the kids, but also by ourselves… I always find it super inspiring. A friend was telling me, ‘It’s the same life whether you laugh or cry.’ And it’s nice to have a friend where you can laugh and cry…and feel always safe.”

Angelina Jolie’s dramatic legal battle with Brad Pitt over their French winery has made headlines, but it’s clear that Salma Hayek has become an important figure in Jolie’s life, helping her find balance amid the chaos.