Marcheline Bertrand: the life of Angelina Jolie’s mother
Marcheline Bertrand, the beloved mother of Hollywood stars Angelina Jolie and James Haven, was a remarkable woman whose life extended far beyond her famous offspring. An American actress, producer, and dedicated humanitarian, Bertrand carved out a significant path for herself, leaving a legacy of compassion and commitment. Her journey, from her early life to her impactful humanitarian endeavors, offers a compelling narrative of a woman who navigated both the glitz of Hollywood and the profound challenges of life with grace and determination. Her influence, particularly on her daughter, is a testament to the deep bonds of family and the enduring power of a mother’s love and guidance.
Early life and roots
Marcheline Bertrand’s early life and roots provided a foundation for the multifaceted woman she would become. Born in the United States, she possessed a rich heritage, being of French-Canadian, Dutch, and German descent. She also claimed Iroquois ancestry, adding another layer to her unique background. Her family’s relocation from Illinois to the affluent Beverly Hills, California, in 1965 marked a significant shift in her environment. Growing up, Marcheline was raised in the Roman Catholic faith. Her early exposure to the performing arts and a keen interest in creative expression would later blossom into a career, but it was her deep-seated values and familial connections that truly shaped her character.
Career in film and production
Marcheline Bertrand’s career in film and production, though perhaps not as globally recognized as her daughter’s, was a significant part of her life. She pursued her passion for acting by studying with the esteemed acting coach Lee Strasberg, a formative experience that honed her craft. Her on-screen credits include minor but notable roles in films such as ‘Lookin’ to Get Out’ in 1982 and ‘The Man Who Loved Women’ in 1983. Beyond acting, Bertrand also ventured into production, showcasing her multifaceted talents. She served as an executive producer for the impactful 2005 documentary ‘Trudell,’ a project that likely resonated with her humanitarian spirit. Her involvement in the film industry, even in supporting roles and production, demonstrates her enduring connection to the world of cinema.
Humanitarian work and legacy
Marcheline Bertrand’s humanitarian work and legacy are perhaps the most profound aspects of her life, reflecting a deep commitment to social justice and the well-being of others. She was not just an actress and producer but a passionate advocate who used her platform to effect positive change. Her efforts extended across various causes, demonstrating a broad scope of compassion and a desire to uplift marginalized communities and raise awareness for critical health issues.
Foundations and awareness campaigns
Marcheline Bertrand was instrumental in co-founding the All Tribes Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting the cultural and economic survival of Native American communities. This initiative underscored her commitment to indigenous rights and the preservation of their heritage. In addition to this vital work, she also founded the Give Love Give Life organization. This foundation was specifically created to raise awareness about gynecological cancers, a cause that would tragically become all too personal for her. Through these foundations and her active participation in awareness campaigns, Marcheline Bertrand demonstrated a powerful drive to make a tangible difference in the world, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy and compassion that continues to inspire.
Personal life and family connections
Marcheline Bertrand’s personal life was marked by significant relationships, most notably her marriage and her deep, enduring bond with her children, Angelina Jolie and James Haven. These connections were central to her identity and profoundly influenced her life’s trajectory.
Marriage to Jon Voight
Marcheline Bertrand was married to the acclaimed actor Jon Voight from 1971 to 1980. This union brought two prominent figures in Hollywood together, and from this relationship, their children, Angelina and James, were born. While the marriage eventually ended, it was a significant chapter in Marcheline’s life, introducing her to the broader Hollywood community and laying the groundwork for her children’s future careers.
Influence on Angelina Jolie
The influence of Marcheline Bertrand on her daughter, Angelina Jolie, cannot be overstated. Angelina has frequently spoken about her mother’s profound impact on her life, shaping her values, her career choices, and her humanitarian endeavors. Marcheline introduced Angelina to the Lee Strasberg Institute, nurturing her early interest in acting. Angelina has shared intimate details, revealing that her mother often wrote letters to the characters she played, a testament to Marcheline’s creative spirit and deep engagement with the art form. Crucially, Angelina has expressed that her mother sacrificed her own dreams of a creative life to support Jolie’s burgeoning career, a selfless act that deeply resonates with the actress. This maternal devotion and encouragement have been a cornerstone of Angelina’s success and her own philanthropic spirit.
Marcheline Bertrand, Angelina Jolie’s mother: her battle with cancer
Marcheline Bertrand, the mother of the globally recognized actress Angelina Jolie, faced a formidable adversary in her later years: cancer. Her courageous fight against the disease and her eventual passing left a significant void, but also highlighted her strength and resilience.
Diagnosis and fight against the disease
Marcheline Bertrand was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 1999. She then embarked on a challenging and protracted battle against the disease, enduring for nearly eight years. This extended period of struggle showcased her immense fortitude and determination. Tragically, her mother and sister had also succumbed to cancer, making her fight an even more poignant and deeply personal ordeal.
Her death and remembrance
After her prolonged battle, Marcheline Bertrand passed away on January 27, 2007, in Los Angeles, California. She was just 56 years old. Her death was a profound loss for her family and for those who knew her and were touched by her work. Her legacy continues to be honored, most notably by her daughter, Angelina Jolie, who named her granddaughter Marcheline in remembrance of her beloved mother. This act of remembrance underscores the enduring love and respect Angelina held for her mother.
The enduring impact of Marcheline Bertrand
The enduring impact of Marcheline Bertrand is evident not only in the lives of her children but also in the causes she championed and the values she instilled. Her journey from an aspiring actress to a dedicated humanitarian, all while raising a family and facing personal adversity, serves as a powerful inspiration. Her commitment to supporting Native American culture through the All Tribes Foundation and her efforts to raise awareness about gynecological cancers with Give Love Give Life demonstrate a life lived with purpose and profound empathy. Angelina Jolie’s own philanthropic endeavors and her candid reflections on her mother’s influence consistently highlight the deep and lasting impression Marcheline left on her. The naming of her granddaughter as Marcheline is a beautiful testament to this enduring connection, ensuring that her mother’s spirit and legacy continue to resonate for generations to come.
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