The Whale's Real-Life Heroes: A Look At Brendan Fraser's Three Sons And Their Unexpected Careers

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Brendan Fraser's triumphant return to Hollywood, which culminated in an Oscar win for *The Whale*, has put a renewed focus on the people who matter most to him: his three sons. As of late 2025, the actor's children—Griffin, Holden, and Leland—are all young men forging their own paths, with recent headlines highlighting everything from a burgeoning modeling career to their father's candid discussions about the challenges and profound joys of raising a son with autism. The family unit, though navigating the complexities of a high-profile divorce, remains the bedrock of the beloved actor's life. The actor, known for iconic roles in *The Mummy* and *George of the Jungle*, shares his three children with his ex-wife, actress Afton Smith. Fraser often speaks about his role as a father, emphasizing that his sons were the primary motivation behind his career resurgence, affectionately known as the "Brenaissance." Their personal lives offer a fresh, unique perspective on the man behind the blockbuster roles.

Brendan Fraser's Sons: A Complete Family Biography

The actor's three sons were born during his marriage to actress Afton Smith, whom he met at a barbecue hosted by Winona Ryder and married in 1998. The couple divorced in 2009, but they continue to co-parent their children.
  • Mother: Afton Smith (Actress and Author)
  • Marriage: September 1998 – December 2007 (Divorce finalized 2009)
  • Current Partner: Jeanne Moore (Makeup Artist)
  • Residence: Fraser lives in Bedford, New York, on a horse farm.

1. Griffin Arthur Fraser (The Eldest)

  • Date of Birth: September 17, 2002
  • Age (as of late 2025): 23 years old
  • Key Detail: Griffin was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at the age of two.
Griffin is the eldest of the three brothers and the one Fraser speaks of most often in recent, emotional interviews. Fraser has been incredibly candid about his experience raising a child on the autism spectrum, a journey that he has described as both challenging and deeply rewarding. He has mentioned that Griffin's condition influenced his role in *The Whale*, where he played a severely obese man trying to reconnect with his estranged daughter. Fraser noted that his son's perspective helped him understand unconditional love and how to "get rid of anything that is not honest." Despite the challenges, Fraser has consistently highlighted Griffin’s joy, love, and unique perspective on the world.

2. Holden Fletcher Fraser (The Model)

  • Date of Birth: August 16, 2004
  • Age (as of late 2025): 21 years old
  • Key Detail: A burgeoning fashion model who recently walked the runway at New York Fashion Week.
Holden Fraser has been making the most recent headlines, stepping into the spotlight with a career in high fashion. In a very fresh update from early 2025, Holden made a rare public appearance to walk the runway for the Todd Snyder Fall-Winter 2025 collection during New York Fashion Week. His proud father, Brendan Fraser, was seen sitting in the front row, cheering him on. Holden, who is reportedly a student at New York University, is represented by Marilyn Agency New York, suggesting a serious pursuit of his modeling career. Fans were quick to note the strong resemblance between the handsome young man and his father, especially during Fraser’s peak *George of the Jungle* days.

3. Leland Francis Fraser (The Youngest)

  • Date of Birth: May 2, 2006
  • Age (as of late 2025): 19 years old
  • Key Detail: The most private of the three, Leland has shown a passion for music and is often described as having a strong resemblance to his father.
Leland is the youngest of the three Fraser sons. Like his older brother Holden, Leland has maintained a relatively private life compared to his father’s public career. He has been seen alongside his father and brother Holden at various industry events, including the screening of *The Whale* in 2022. While details about his current college or career path are sparse, he has been noted for his interest in music. As he enters his late teenage years, Leland is expected to follow his brothers into a more public life, whether in the arts or another field.

The Profound Impact of Fatherhood and Autism on Brendan Fraser's Career

Fraser’s emotional honesty about his family has become a cornerstone of his public image since his career resurgence. His willingness to discuss Griffin’s Autism Spectrum Disorder has provided a powerful, high-profile voice for parents of children with special needs. The actor has frequently recounted the moment he and Afton Smith received the diagnosis for Griffin, recalling that they were "in a state of shock." He credits his son with teaching him what truly matters in life. When Fraser was nominated for his Oscar for *The Whale*, he shared that his sons were the first people he told, highlighting their importance in his life and career success. This open dialogue has resonated deeply with audiences, adding a layer of genuine human connection to his professional accomplishments.

Navigating the Challenges of a High-Profile Divorce and Co-Parenting

The context of Fraser's divorce from Afton Smith is a necessary part of the family's story. The couple announced their separation in 2007, and the divorce was finalized in 2009. The divorce settlement included a significant financial obligation for Fraser, who was reportedly ordered to pay $50,000 per month in spousal support. However, in the years that followed, Fraser sought a modification of the alimony and child support payments, citing a decline in his income due to a combination of health issues, a back injury, and a period of fewer acting roles. This financial struggle, which coincided with his personal and professional low points, has been widely reported. Despite the public and private difficulties of the divorce, Fraser and Smith have maintained a co-parenting relationship focused on the well-being of their three sons.

Brendan Fraser’s New Chapter with Partner Jeanne Moore

Since his return to the spotlight, Brendan Fraser has been consistently supported by his current partner, makeup artist Jeanne Moore. Moore has been a fixture on red carpets, accompanying Fraser to major events like the Oscars and premieres for his recent films, including *Rental Family* and *Killers of the Flower Moon*. Moore's presence marks a new, stable chapter in Fraser's personal life. While his sons are now young adults, the blended family dynamic, with Moore supporting Fraser's professional and personal journey, is a testament to the actor's renewed happiness and stability. This support system, anchored by his three sons and his partner, is what makes his current success story so compelling to fans worldwide. The Fraser boys—Griffin, Holden, and Leland—are no longer just the children of a famous actor; they are young men coming into their own, reflecting the resilience and unique character of their celebrated father.
brendan fraser kids
brendan fraser kids

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