Brad Pitt Has Spent Millions in Legal Fees in Battle Against Ex Angelina Jolie Over French Winery
The ongoing legal battle between Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie has taken a significant financial toll on both parties, with Pitt reportedly spending millions in legal fees to defend his claims over Château Miraval, the French winery they once co-owned. The high-stakes dispute, which has been dragging on since Jolie sold her stake in the winery in 2021, continues to dominate headlines as new details emerge about the cost of the litigation.
The Château Miraval Dispute
Pitt and Jolie purchased Château Miraval in 2008 for an estimated $60 million, turning the estate into a successful wine business that became famous for its high-end rosé. However, their shared ownership of the property has become a major point of contention following their 2016 split.
In 2021, Jolie sold her share of the winery to Tenute del Mondo, a subsidiary of the Stoli Group, without Pitt’s consent. Pitt subsequently filed a lawsuit, accusing Jolie of violating their agreement and intentionally undermining the business.
Millions Spent on Legal Fees
According to insiders, Pitt has spent millions of dollars in legal fees over the course of the dispute. His legal team has been working to protect his investment in Château Miraval and block the involvement of Stoli, which he argues could damage the winery’s reputation and profitability.
“Brad is deeply committed to Miraval,” a source close to the actor revealed. “He sees it as more than just a business—it’s a legacy project. That’s why he’s willing to invest so much time and money into this fight.”
Legal experts estimate that Pitt’s total expenses in the case could exceed $10 million, including attorney fees, court costs, and other related expenses.
Angelina Jolie’s Stance
Jolie, for her part, has defended her decision to sell her stake in Château Miraval, claiming it was within her legal rights. Her legal team argues that the sale was necessary for her to sever financial ties with Pitt and move forward with her life.
In court filings, Jolie has accused Pitt of using the legal system to punish her and control her financial decisions. “Angelina feels this case is about more than just the winery—it’s about Brad trying to exert influence over her even after their divorce,” a source close to Jolie said.
The Cost of Prolonged Litigation
While the financial costs are substantial, the emotional toll of the dispute has also been significant for both Pitt and Jolie. The legal battles over Château Miraval are just one aspect of their broader post-divorce struggles, which include ongoing custody disputes over their six children.
Observers note that the Château Miraval case could drag on for years, further increasing the financial and emotional burden on both parties.
Public and Industry Reactions
The legal drama has drawn mixed reactions from fans and industry insiders. While some support Pitt’s determination to protect Château Miraval, others question whether the ongoing litigation is worth the cost.
“This case highlights the complexities of untangling shared assets in a high-profile divorce,” a legal expert commented. “When emotions are involved, the financial stakes often become secondary to the principle of the matter.”
What’s Next?
As the Château Miraval case continues to unfold, both Pitt and Jolie face mounting costs and the possibility of further delays. For Pitt, the fight is about preserving the legacy and integrity of a project he is passionate about. For Jolie, it’s about asserting her independence and moving forward.
Whether or not a resolution is on the horizon remains uncertain, but the case underscores the financial and emotional complexities of high-stakes divorce disputes. For now, the Château Miraval saga continues to serve as a stark reminder of the challenges that come with disentangling lives, businesses, and emotions after a high-profile split.