Famous Hollywood star Angelina Jolie, a familiar face among Cambodians, has made her long-awaited comeback to the country for the first time since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020.
In the past, a renowned American film star, who previously starred in the movie “Tomb Raider” in 2001, has now taken on the role of director in the film “First They Killed My Father.” This movie is considered groundbreaking for introducing the beauty of Angkor Wat to a broader Western audience. Recently, the talented filmmaker and actress, Angelina Jolie, was spotted at Angkor Wat temple, surprising many local tuk-tuk and taxi drivers. Early in the morning, around 7 am on Monday, she was seen walking around to witness the sunrise, much to the amazement of the locals. Sharing his experience, tuk-tuk driver Sen Soeu mentioned, “I was amazed to see the Hollywood actress unexpectedly on Monday as she emerged from Angkor Wat. I hurried over to her and asked for a photo, and she kindly agreed to take one with me.”
He mentioned that he was unable to continue asking her questions as he noticed a few people walking with her. “I really wanted to ask her more questions, but unfortunately, I couldn’t. However, I’m glad she allowed me to take a photo,” he explained. Tour guide Mom Sopheaktra shared, “I spotted Angelina Jolie near Angkor Wat yesterday at 8am. I approached her for a photo, and after taking one, she left.” While Jolie posed for photos with Apsara Authority personnel and ticket checking guides in front of Angkor Wat, speculation arose about a possible new project in Siem Reap.
Long Kosal, a spokesperson for the Apsara Authority, mentioned that Angelina Jolie is not involved in any official capacity. He clarified that if Apsara staff are seen taking photos with her, it is on a personal level only. He also hinted that the Hollywood actress may have some environmental project collaboration with UNESCO, although UNESCO did not give any response when contacted. News from Crossroads Today revealed that Jolie is reportedly planning to visit Cambodia again this year to launch the upcoming Women for Bees initiative.
