Celebrity News September 30, 2016
Angelina Jolie Hires 'Real-Life Olivia Pope' for Brad Pitt Divorce
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Actress Angelina Jolie has just added another famous name to her legal team handling her divorce from Brad Pitt.
According to People, Angelina has hired renowned crisis manager Judy Smith, who is rumored to be the inspiration for Kerry Washington's character Olivia Pope on “Scandal.” Though she has been listed as a producer on the show, Judy also worked as a deputy press secretary in the White House at one point in her career.
A source told the publication, "Judy has been asked to consult with those working with Angelina on divorce negotiations. Judy and her firm have a long history of handling issues that have unfortunately garnered too much attention in the public eye, and she knows how to push towards resolutions that are swift and discreet.”
Smith, who owns Smith & Company, has worked with high-profile stars like Paula Deen, Monica Lewinsky, and football player Michael Vick.
Aside from Smith, Angelina is also working with famed divorce lawyer Laura Wasser, who represented her in her divorce from Billy Bob Thornton. Brad has hired lawyer Lance Spiegel, who has represented Eva Longoria, Charlie Sheen, Michael Jackson, and Heather Locklear.
Jolie and Pitt are reportedly “deep in private negotiations” about their divorce as they attempt to work out a custody agreement. TMZ reports the two have agreed on a temporary custody deal, which was proposed by the L.A. County Dept. of Children and Family Services. In the deal, Jolie has full custody, while Brad has visitation with a therapist present initially. Brad would be subject to random drug/alcohol testing and they would go through individual and family counseling with the kids.
