In a moment of profound personal revelation, James Haven, the older brother of acclaimed actress Angelina Jolie, has openly declared his homosexuality at 53. This announcement, made during an emotional livestream with his former spouse, Romi Imbelli, signals a significant turning point in Haven's life, as he embraces an identity he has long understood but only now publicly shares. His journey, marked by early self-discovery and later introspection, speaks to the universal quest for authenticity and acceptance.
Details of James Haven's Public Declaration
On a significant Thursday, August 6, 2026, James Haven, 53, eloquently revealed his gay identity during an candid online discussion hosted by his former wife and close friend, Romi Imbelli. This announcement, which Haven described as a "new chapter" in his life, follows their brief marriage in August 2024 in Laguna Beach, California, which was annulled just 15 days later. Imbelli had publicly acknowledged her filing for annulment in March of the subsequent year.
During the livestream, Imbelli initiated the conversation, stating her desire to provide Haven with the platform to speak his truth. With a chuckle, Haven confirmed, "I'm gay." He then shared a poignant statement, recalling his childhood fascination with Disney princesses and how he would secretly apply glitter to his cheeks and mascara to his lashes, feeling a magical connection that he now understands was an expression of his authentic self. He remarked that this was "never about pretending to be someone else. It was about letting a part of myself shine that had always been there."
Haven reflected on how, like many gay individuals, he learned to suppress parts of himself to conform to societal expectations. He emphasized that his coming out was not about changing who he is, but about unveiling the person he has "been here all along." He voiced hope that his family and others would embrace "love over fear, understanding over judgment, and connection over the beliefs that may have kept us apart." Haven asserted that the "little boy with glitter on his face and mascara on his lashes was never confused, broken, or something to be ashamed of. He was simply gay. He was joyful. He was brave before he even knew it."
In a separate video on Imbelli's Substack, Haven articulated his profound sense of freedom after years of healing from childhood trauma. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to live authentically, dedicating this new phase to "hope, peace, and love."
Imbelli, who has known Haven for over two decades, confessed during the livestream that she had sensed his true orientation even during their marriage but had resisted acknowledging it. Despite their separation, she affirmed their enduring bond, calling him her "life partner" and "love," adding, "You are my love. And you happen to be gay." She echoed Haven's sentiment in an Instagram post featuring their photos, writing, "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." She stressed the importance of compassion and acceptance, acknowledging that love evolves and sometimes transcends traditional definitions.
Haven is also set to launch a weekly podcast, "Save Haven with James Haven," although a release date remains unannounced. Imbelli is also preparing to release her memoir, "Breathe Mija," which is expected to delve into their shared history.
The siblings James Haven and Angelina Jolie, children of Jon Voight and Marcheline Bertrand, famously garnered media attention for their affectionate public displays, including a controversial kiss at the 2000 Oscars and Golden Globes.
This candid declaration by James Haven resonates deeply, reminding us of the ongoing importance of self-acceptance and the courage it takes to live authentically. His narrative provides a powerful example of how personal journeys of identity can unfold, often unexpectedly, and how societal understanding and empathy are crucial in supporting individuals as they embrace their true selves. It underscores that finding freedom in one's identity, regardless of age or past experiences, is a transformative and ultimately liberating endeavor, inspiring others to embark on their own paths of self-discovery and openness.
