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James Haven, Angelina Jolie's older brother, has publicly come out as gay, sharing his truth during a livestream with ex-wife Romi Imbelli on her Substack.
Haven and Imbelli married in August 2024, but their union was short-lived. She filed for annulment in March 2025, citing "fraud." Despite the end of their marriage, the two have remained close friends and collaborators, appearing together to discuss their journey and support one another.
During the livestream, Imbelli prompted Haven to speak about his identity, and he responded simply: "I'm gay." He then read a personal statement reflecting on his childhood, recalling how he felt different but lacked the words to explain it. He described moments of joy when he could express himself, but also the pressure he felt to hide parts of who he was in order to fit in.
Haven explained that coming out was not about becoming someone new, but about allowing others to finally see the person he has always been. "It was never about pretending to be someone else. It was about letting a part of myself shine that had always been there," he said.
He added that he hopes his family and others will choose love and understanding.
"I hope my family and others can choose love over fear, understanding over judgment, and connection over the beliefs that may have kept us apart. I hope they can look beyond the labels and simply see me with the same heart, the same laugh, the same soul they've always known."
In a follow-up video, Haven reflected on his journey of healing and self-acceptance. "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."
Imbelli later shared her pride in Haven's decision, writing that their story was about setting each other free. She described him as family and one of the greatest loves of her life, even if not as her husband.
"Love doesn't always fit into the boxes we're taught it should. Sometimes it transforms. Sometimes it changes shape. Sometimes it asks us to let go of what we imagined so we can embrace what is true. 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." Imbelli wrote.
