07 August,2026 02:30 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Angelina Jolie and James Haven. Pics via X
Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie's brother, James Haven, has publicly come out as gay, describing the moment as the beginning of a new chapter after years of healing from what he called childhood trauma. The actor-filmmaker shared the emotional announcement through a video posted on the Instagram account of his former wife, Romi Imbelli, who referred to herself as his "best friend."
In the heartfelt clip, James said, "Today is August 6, 2026. And I, James Haven, begin a new chapter in my life. 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."
He added that he wanted to move forward with honesty and compassion. "As my story unfolds, I want you all to know that I do it with an open heart, with nothing but love for myself and for all of you. Thank you for allowing me to be what I was meant to be."
Alongside the video, Romi Imbelli shared an emotional note, calling James one of the greatest loves of her life and explaining that her intention was never to reveal his identity without consent but to support him in embracing his truth.
"The secret chapter is live," she wrote, adding, "I wasn't here to out someone I love. I was here to help set someone free. There is a difference. In return, he set me free."
Reflecting on how their relationship evolved, Romi shared, "I'll always love him. Just not as his wife, but as my family, my best friend, and one of the greatest loves of my life."
She also urged people to show James kindness as he begins this new phase of his life. "We ask only that you give him the same compassion as he learns to walk through this world with his head held high, exactly as God made him," she wrote.
James, the elder brother of Oscar-winning actor Angelina Jolie, has largely stayed away from the spotlight in recent years. His announcement has since drawn widespread support online, with many praising his honesty and wishing him strength as he embraces this new chapter.
On the other hand, Angelina Jolie recently made headlines as her children dropped Brad Pitt's last name from their surname and chose to keep only 'Jolie'.
