CELEB INSIDER: Is Golden Era Done For Bra

Is the golden era of stardom coming to an end for the newly-split Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston? Pitt's had a long record of weak box office in the films he's carried in recent years, with domestic grosses of $62 million for "Spy Game," $67 million for "The Mexican," $30 million for "Snatch," $37 million for "Fight Club," $44 million for "Meet Joe Black," $43 million for "The Devil's Own," and $38 million for "Seven Years in Tibet." His latest, "Troy," looks good in comparison with more than $133 million in domestic grosses -- until you realize that it cost about $185 million to make. The success of the "Ocean's 11" and "12" flicks are attributable to a winning ensemble of which he is merely a part. Pitt himself acknowledged last year that the clock might be ticking on his time at the top of moviedom's leading men, one reason he went out of his way to get buff for "Troy." "Mr. and Mrs. Smith," which he made with Angelia Jolie (sparking rumors of a fling) is upcoming for the actor. Jennifer Aniston, meanwhile, has some six films lined up over the next two years. She'll next be seen in the comedy "Rumor Has It," due out April 1, and she has been well-received in features including "Bruce Almighty" and "Along Came Polly." But only time will tell how her career trajectory will go without the beloved "Friends" to bolster it. There are all too many actors out there who were once the hottest thing going thanks to a hit series, and who lost their luster once the series wrapped. (Seen any good Luke Perry movies lately? Michelle Williams or James Van Der Beek? How about the cast of "thirtysomething"? Teri Hatcher was a hot property when "Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman" was a hit show -- but didn't click with the mass audience again until she was lucky enough to grab the "Desperate Housewives" brass ring. None of them were as big as Jennifer, you say? How about Roseanne?) As a golden couple, a power couple, Aniston and Pitt have a company and several projects in the works together. One can only assume their split won't be good for business. Which alliances and industry friends will go her way, which will go his? This is going to be a tough time for them professionally as well as personally, at least for awhile. Of course, Pitt and Aniston could each be moving into a new phase of success, too. Nicole Kidman certainly forced those who doubted that her career would go on successfully post-Tom Cruise to ear their dire predictions. She proved her talent and grit. Fair or not, Brad and Jennifer will now have to prove themselves once again.