Twenty-four years after their infamous red carpet kiss, Angelina Jolie’s brother, James Haven, is shedding light on their close relationship and shared memories. In a rare interview, Haven spoke openly about their sibling bond, emphasizing the deep connection they have maintained throughout the years.
Haven and Jolie made headlines in 2000 when they shared a kiss at the Oscars afterparty, a moment that sparked widespread media attention and speculation. However, Haven insists the kiss was nothing more than a display of familial love, blown out of proportion by the media.
In his recent reflections, Haven described his lifelong role as Jolie’s protector, a duty that became even more significant during her highly publicized divorce from Brad Pitt. He recalled feeling a deep responsibility to support his sister and her children, a sentiment he attributes to the values instilled in him by their late mother, Marcheline Bertrand. According to Haven, their mother’s nurturing and compassionate nature had a lasting impact on both siblings, shaping their unwavering support for each other.
The Infamous Red Carpet Moment
Haven addressed the 2000 Oscars incident directly, explaining that the kiss was nothing more than an affectionate gesture between siblings. Despite the intense media scrutiny, he stands by the fact that it was never meant to be controversial. Jolie, too, has previously addressed the moment, stating that it was simply a demonstration of their close relationship and that the rumors surrounding it were unfounded.
“The media made it into something it wasn’t,” Haven explained. “It was just a brother showing love for his sister, and somehow, it turned into a scandal.”
Haven also emphasized that he and Jolie share a bond that extends beyond public appearances, rooted in a lifetime of shared experiences, challenges, and unwavering support for one another.
A Brother’s Protective Nature
During Jolie’s tumultuous split from Brad Pitt, Haven played an instrumental role in offering emotional support. He stepped in to help with childcare and ensure that his sister had a solid support system during one of the most challenging times in her life. He described how his protective instincts, deeply ingrained by their mother’s influence, have always driven him to be there for Jolie whenever she needed him.
“She went through so much during that time, and all I wanted was to make sure she knew she wasn’t alone,” Haven shared. “Family has always been our foundation, and that’s something we’ve carried with us from our childhood.”
Beyond his role as a brother, Haven has led a relatively private life compared to Jolie’s Hollywood stardom. Although he has dabbled in acting and directing, he has largely stayed out of the limelight, preferring to focus on his personal passions and humanitarian efforts. Despite their different career paths, he remains one of Jolie’s closest confidants and has been a steadfast presence in her life.
A Legacy of Love and Loyalty
Haven credits their mother for instilling in them the importance of family, love, and resilience. Bertrand’s passing in 2007 was a devastating loss for both of them, but it also reinforced their bond. They relied on each other for strength, carrying forward the lessons of compassion and loyalty that their mother had taught them.
“Losing our mom was incredibly difficult, but it also reminded us of how important it is to hold onto family,” Haven said. “She always taught us to be there for each other, and that’s something Angie and I have never forgotten.”
As Haven looks back on the past two decades, he remains grateful for the unique relationship he shares with his sister. He acknowledges that their bond has been tested by life’s ups and downs, but through it all, they have remained each other’s unwavering source of support. He hopes that, beyond the headlines and speculation, people will recognize the depth of their sibling love and the strong foundation that has kept them close for so many years.
Angelina Jolie and James Haven’s relationship serves as a testament to the enduring power of family. Despite the scrutiny, rumors, and media sensationalism, they have stayed true to each other, proving that sibling love is one of the most steadfast connections in life. As time goes on, their bond continues to stand strong, rooted in shared memories, mutual respect, and a legacy of love passed down from their mother.
