Millionaire Barbra Streisand’s Stepson Was Reported Homeless, Rummaging through Trash — His Dad James Brolin Spoke Out

He was born into wealth and fame, but he was spotted digging through trash at one point. Jess Brolin, the stepson of Barbra Streisand and son of James Brolin, shocked the world with images of him on the streets, but his father stepped forward to illuminate the true nature of his son's circumstances.

James Brolin, a seasoned and accomplished actor, boasts a collection of accolades, including two Golden Globes and an Emmy, all in recognition of his remarkable contributions to both television and film. Renowned within the entertainment industry, Brolin's star graces the illustrious Hollywood Walk of Fame, a tribute to his significant impact on the industry.

Beyond his impressive career, Brolin, recognized for his roles in notable US TV shows like "Marcus Welby, M.D.," has not only built a legacy in Hollywood but also a loving family. He is a loving husband to the iconic songstress Barbra Streisand, whom he married in 1998 after his divorce from his second wife, Jan Smithers. The couple's union brought together not just two talented individuals but also two families.

Brolin is a proud father to his three children, two of whom he had with his late first wife, Jane Cameron Agee, an animal rights activist who died in a car crash in 1995. His eldest son is Josh Brolin, an Oscar-nominated actor who has starred in films like "Milk," "No Country for Old Men," and "Labor Day." His second son is Jess Brolin, who inherited a six-figure trust fund from his mother following her death.

It is evident that this blended family managed to bridge the gap and establish a harmonious relationship. Josh, in particular, shares an exceptional closeness with both his father and stepmother, forming a tight-knit trio. In 2020, he faced criticism on social media for disregarding physical distancing guidelines by visiting his family during lockdown. In response, he took to social media and acknowledged the breach of protocol. He wrote:

"My father lives next door to us, and we had a plan to go see them and not be near them, and that plan was broken, and that's our responsibility… I think it was irresponsible."

The Brolin-Streisand family's unity isn't just limited to challenging times; it's also celebrated in moments of joy. Streisand demonstrates her warm connection with her stepson and his growing family through her Instagram posts. One image depicted herself with Josh's daughter, Westlyn, as she celebrated the toddler's milestones.

Another one was of herself, her husband, Brolin, Josh, and his pregnant wife, Kathryn, radiating happiness. The accompanying caption read:

"Wishing our dear sweet daughter-in-law Kathryn a very happy birthday! Much love, Barbra and Jim."

Josh Brolin's Descent into Homelessness

But behind the glamour, success, and apparent unity, a glimpse into the lesser-known side of this prominent family came to light. A photo of Brolin's second son, Jess, emerged in the media, and his life unfolded in a way that stood in stark contrast to his family's legacy. It showed him digging through a trash can for food, looking obese and disheveled.

The photo sparked a wave of concern and sympathy from the public, who wondered how the young man ended up in such a dire situation. Once upon a time, Jess Brolin knew a life of relative comfort, residing in a $600-a-month apartment. Reportedly, the path that led Jess to the streets of Ojai, California, began in 2011 when he was evicted from his apartment.

In 1995, Jess inherited a substantial six-figure trust fund following the tragic death of his mother. The financial cushion provided by the trust fund appeared to be a safeguard against adversity. However, by 2011, Jess's circumstances took a turn for the worse, and he found himself unable to keep up with his rent.

Friends recounted a period when he resorted to sleeping in an old pick-up truck. Even with the safety net of his illustrious lineage, Jess chose to decline the offers of help that came from his worried family. This decision marked the commencement of a journey that saw him drift further from the comforts of his past life.

The stepson of a millionaire and an esteemed Hollywood figure, Jess found himself a far cry from the thriving world of showbiz that surrounded his family. Spotted tipping the scales at around 25 stone, Jess's appearance had transformed along with his circumstances. Gone were the days of opulent living and the familiar surroundings of his father's Malibu mansion.

Instead, he roamed the streets, miles away from the world he once knew. The once vibrant young man was said to spend his hours idling on public benches and seeking sustenance in the discarded remnants of others. According to a source close to Jess, his nights were spent seeking shelter wherever he could find it – whether it was a field behind shops or the shelter of a pick-up truck.

The depths of his situation painted a heartbreaking portrait, one that seemed inconceivable for a member of a family etched into the annals of entertainment history. A spokesperson for the Brolin family expressed their unwavering love and concern, stating:

"We have offered help and support, and we continue to do so. We love him very much and only want what is best for him."

James Brolin Reveals the Truth About His Son Jess's Life After Reports of Homelessness

Seven years after the initial reports of Jess's homelessness, his father broke his silence and shared a different perspective on his son's life. Addressing the misconceptions that had circulated, Brolin said that Jess was not homeless and he had carved out a life for himself in a mountain town. He shared:

"My son Jess lives in a mountain town and runs a charity organization. Right now, he's probably the happiest of us all. I know he's been photographed collecting bottles and cans out of the trash, but all the money went to charity."

Brolin stated that Jess collected recyclables from the trash and donated the money to charity, adding that he was happy and self-reliant and that he had his family's love and support. A spokesperson for the Brolin family also confirmed that Jess was not homeless and that he had a job. The spokesperson said:

"Contrary to what has been erroneously reported, Jess is gainfully employed and supports himself."

The revelation of Jess's true situation challenged the assumptions that had been made based on photos. Some media outlets even described his story as a "fantasy drama" that contrasted with reality. The truth was far from the image of despair and hopelessness that had been portrayed earlier. Jess was not a victim of misfortune but a compassionate and generous man seeking to make a positive impact on society.

As comments flooded social media platforms, expressing concern and urging Jess to seek medical attention for his health, the collective sentiment reflected genuine care for his well-being. One commenter wrote, "What a shame... We are here to help one another out. This young man needs assistance." Other social media users were concerned about his health, with one commenting that Jess needed to "see a doctor very soon."