James Haven, the actor and filmmaker who is the son of Academy Award-winning actor Jon Voight and the brother of actress Angelina Jolie, has publicly come out as gay.
Haven shared the announcement during a live conversation on his former wife Romi Imbelli’s Substack, where the two discussed how their relationship had evolved into a close friendship following the end of their marriage. During the livestream, Haven read a personal letter reflecting on his journey of self-acceptance.
Recalling his childhood, he said he was drawn to Disney princesses and enjoyed wearing glitter and mascara, describing those moments as times when he felt “more like me.” He explained that, as he grew older, he felt pressured to hide that part of himself in order to fit in. Haven said many gay children struggle with accepting themselves because of societal expectations, adding that he spent years suppressing his identity before deciding to embrace it openly.
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“Coming out isn’t about becoming someone new; it’s about allowing everyone else to meet the person who has been here all along,” he said. He also expressed hope that his family and others would respond with love, understanding and acceptance, rather than judgment.
In his letter, Haven said he is proud of who he has become and no longer feels the need to apologize for his identity. Reflecting on his younger self, he wrote that the little boy who enjoyed glitter and mascara “was simply gay,” describing him as joyful and brave.
Haven married Romi Imbelli in 2024, but the marriage ended just days later. Despite the split, the two have remained friends and are currently collaborating on adapting Imbelli’s book into a television series, with Haven attached to direct the project.
His announcement has drawn attention online, with many offering messages of support following his decision to publicly share his sexuality.
