James Haven, the older brother of Hollywood star Angelina Jolie, has made headlines after publicly coming out as gay at the age of 53. In an emotional video shared on Instagram by his former wife and now close friend, Romi Imbelli, Haven opened up about embracing his true identity after years of healing from childhood trauma.
As his heartfelt message resonated with many online, here’s everything you need to know about James Haven, his career, famous family and personal life.
Who Is James Haven?
James Haven is an American actor, producer and activist. He was born on May 11, 1973, in Los Angeles, California, to Oscar-winning actor Jon Voight and actress Marcheline Bertrand. He is also the elder brother of Academy Award-winning actress Angelina Jolie.
After his parents separated, James and Angelina were primarily raised by their mother, with whom they shared a close bond. He later studied at the USC School of Cinematic Arts, where he developed an interest in filmmaking and acting.
James Haven’s Acting Career
Although he never reached the level of fame enjoyed by his sister, James Haven has appeared in several films and television projects over the years. His acting credits include Gia (1998), Hell’s Kitchen (1998), Original Sin (2001) and Monster’s Ball (2001). He also worked behind the scenes as a producer and became involved in humanitarian and charitable initiatives, often supporting causes championed by Angelina Jolie.
In recent years, Haven has largely stayed away from mainstream Hollywood, preferring to keep a low public profile.
James Haven And Angelina Jolie’s Close Bond
James Haven has long been known for his close relationship with Angelina Jolie. The siblings made headlines at the 2000 Academy Awards, where they shared a kiss after Jolie won the Oscar for Girl, Interrupted. The moment sparked widespread media attention and controversy, although both siblings later dismissed the speculation, saying it was simply an expression of affection between a brother and sister during an emotional moment.
Over the years, Haven has continued to support Jolie both personally and professionally, often standing by her during significant moments in her life.
James Haven Comes Out As Gay
On August 6, James Haven publicly came out as gay in a heartfelt video shared on Instagram by his former wife-turned-best friend, Romi Imbelli. “I, James Haven, begin a new chapter of my life,” he said.
Reflecting on his journey, Haven added, “After many years of healing from childhood trauma, I am now free to live the life that I believe I was always meant to live. One of hope, one of peace and one of love.”
James Haven Opens Up About His Sexuality
Haven also discussed his sexuality during an appearance on Imbelli’s Breathe Mija livestream. During the conversation, he simply said, “I’m gay,” prompting Imbelli to respond, “As gay as gay can be.”
He also shared a deeply personal letter, recalling how he was fascinated by Disney princesses as a child. “When I was a little boy, I was absolutely obsessed with the Disney princesses. I would sneak glitter onto my cheeks, swipe mascara onto my lashes, and for those moments, I felt like magic,” he wrote.
Haven explained that, growing up, he questioned whether he had to hide those parts of himself to fit in. He concluded by reflecting on his younger self, writing that the little boy with “glitter on his face and mascara on his lashes” was never broken or confused.
Was James Haven Married?
Yes. James Haven was married to Romi Imbelli, although their marriage was short-lived. The pair later separated, but they remained close friends.
Imbelli has continued to support Haven publicly, including by sharing the emotional video in which he came out as gay and hosting the livestream where he spoke openly about his journey.
