Billy Bob Thornton is officially correcting one of Hollywood’s most persistent relationship myths.
In a new interview, the actor clarified long-standing claims that he and ex-wife Angelina Jolie wore necklaces containing vials of each other’s blood.
Thornton said the infamous vials “never existed,” noting the story grew far beyond reality.
The comments surfaced during a Rolling Stone interview released this week, where he also reflected on their brief marriage and continued friendship.
The remarks have renewed public interest in one of entertainment’s most discussed celebrity relationships.
What Billy Bob Thornton Confirmed
In his interview, Billy Bob Thornton explained the true origin of the blood-necklace story, clarifying what he and Jolie actually wore. According to Thornton, the pair kept small lockets containing a tiny drop of blood, not vials.
He emphasized that the keepsakes were symbolic and romantic rather than extreme or theatrical, pushing back against exaggerated descriptions that circulated in tabloids for decades.
Thornton also revisited his marriage to Jolie from 2000 to 2003, calling it one of the most meaningful periods of his life. He described their separation as “civilized” and rooted in lifestyle differences rather than conflict.
He added that the couple remains close friends and still communicates regularly.
Quotes & Reactions From Analysts
Thornton said public perception transformed a simple gesture into a sensationalized narrative.
“By the time it’s over, we’re vampires. We live in a dungeon,” he told Rolling Stone, referencing the media’s fixation.
Industry analysts note that this clarification aligns with statements he made in past interviews, including a 2018 HFPA podcast.
Entertainment publicist Marcus Teague added, “Thornton’s comments reinforce how celebrity narratives can be distorted over time. His calm approach is consistent with how he has handled past rumors.”
Cultural analyst Rachel Henson said Jolie and Thornton’s relationship remains a topic of fascination due to their contrasting personas and the early-2000s media environment.
Why This Matters
Thornton’s clarification effectively closes the door on one of Hollywood’s most iconic myths.
The false narrative has endured for over two decades, shaping how the public viewed the Jolie-Thornton relationship and influencing countless pop-culture references.
The renewed attention may also shift focus back to Thornton’s current work, including Paramount+ series Landman, while offering a more accurate historical account of his relationship with Jolie.
Additionally, the comments highlight the broader issue of how celebrity stories evolve — often becoming unrecognizable from the truth.
What’s Next for Billy Bob Thornton
Thornton is continuing promotional work for Landman and remains active in film and music.
No further comments are expected regarding the Jolie rumor, as the actor emphasized he considers the matter resolved.
Jolie, meanwhile, continues navigating her legal disputes regarding the Château Miraval winery with ex-husband Brad Pitt.
Both remain public figures, but neither is expected to revisit their early-2000s relationship beyond occasional clarifications.
Sources
Rolling Stone
HFPA in Conversation Podcast
The Independent
Variety
Entertainment Weekly
