The Oscar-winning actress Angelina Jolie hosted an exclusive event for her brand, Atelier Jolie, in New York City over the weekend.
Among the attendees was 40-year-old artist Akala. “Atelier Jolie welcomed Mustafa at 57 Great Jones, hosting a special listening party and panel discussion for his debut album, Dunya, out now. Join us in celebrating this stunning 12-song collection, where folk meets poetry,” read an Instagram post from Atelier Jolie.
At the event, Jolie dazzled in an elegant black ensemble, her hair flowing loosely, while Akala opted for a more casual look with a black crew-neck T-shirt and shorts.
According to TMZ, sources suggest the two are “just good friends.” However, In Touch Weekly reported that the Original Sin actress has allegedly been in a secret relationship with the rapper for “more than a year.”
Interestingly, Akala is reportedly in a committed relationship with Chanelle Newman, co-founder of his Hip-hop Shakespeare Company.
The recent sighting of Jolie and Akala comes shortly after he accompanied her to the 62nd New York Film Festival for the premiere of her film Maria at Lincoln Center. They were also spotted together during the Venice International Film Festival in August.
In May last year, Akala was seen with Jolie and her daughters, Zahara, 19, and Shiloh, 18, at the Calabash Literary Festival in Jamaica.
An attendee from the event mentioned that Akala appeared “very protective” of Jolie’s children. Their public appearances continued, including a dinner together in Milan. For Jolie, who has been single since her high-profile split from Brad Pitt, Akala’s company seems to be a refreshing change.
Meanwhile, Brad Pitt has moved on and is currently dating jewellery designer Ines de Ramon.
