Angelina Jolie's chickenpox video goes viral, missing Unbroken premiere
'I will be home itching and missing everyone,' says director in much-watched video statement
Angelina Jolie has created a truly viral video, announcing she's missing the Los Angeles premiere of Unbroken tonight because she's infected with the chickenpox virus.
"I just wanted to be clear and honest about why I will be missing the Unbroken events in the next few days," said the 39-year-old in the video statement posted Friday.
Jolie directed the drama that follows the real-life story of American Second World War hero and Olympian Louis Zamperini.
The Japanese war camp survivor and long-distance runner died in July at age 97, and his family members were due to attend the premiere as special guests of the Hollywood celebrity.
"I will be home itching and missing everyone, and I can't believe it 'cause this film means so much to me," said Jolie.
- On mobile? Watch Jolie's statement here
Jolie's health must mean a lot to her fans, too. Her statement is one of the top videos on YouTube on Monday morning with more than 7.2 million views.
The 39-second clip shows the Oscar-winner speckled with what looks like spots on her chest and her neck.
"I just can't believe it!" Jolie laughs incredulously, before waving at the camera.
Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral infection that causes an itchy rash of spots and a general feeling of malaise.
Universal Pictures said Jolie is suffering from a "mild bout" of the illness, and that she "intends to resume her schedule and press engagements at the earliest opportunity."
It's not clear where Jolie caught the chickenpox from, but it is a predominantly childhood illness and Jolie is raising six kids with her husband, Brad Pitt.
Unbroken is due in theatres on Dec. 25.
