Jack Haven, a talented actor known for their roles in films and series such as "I Saw the TV Glow" and "Atypical," recently announced a significant change in their personal and professional identity. Born under a different name, the actor has chosen to embrace their nonbinary identity by changing their name to Jack Haven. This announcement was made through an Instagram post on January 20, where they shared the heartfelt reasons behind their decision and the symbolism carried by their new name.
The Inspiration Behind the Name
Haven’s choice of last name is a tribute to their great-great uncle, Haven Gillespie, a renowned composer and lyricist famous for the holiday classic, “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town.” This personal connection to their family history adds depth to Haven’s new identity. In the same announcement, Jack explained that the first name "Jack" became a part of their identity during a transformative workshop led by Iranian actor and director Saman Arastoo. "I said I was using it in safe spaces," Haven shared. "Saman said use it in dangerous spaces. So I use it in the men's bathroom."
Prior to this announcement, Jack had already begun exploring their musical talents, releasing a song titled "Open Urself" under their new moniker. This artistic expression is part of Haven’s broader journey of self-discovery and authenticity.
Career Highlights and Accomplishments
Jack Haven’s acting career took off with a role in director Woody Allen’s 2015 film, "Irrational Man." They continued to gain recognition with performances alongside celebrated actors such as Matt Damon and Christoph Waltz in "Downsizing" (2017) and with Brie Larson, Naomi Watts, and Woody Harrelson in "The Glass Castle" (2017). From 2017 to 2021, Haven portrayed Casey Gardner in Netflix’s dramedy series "Atypical," further establishing their place in the entertainment industry.
Haven’s work in "I Saw the TV Glow," directed by transfeminine, nonbinary filmmaker Jane Schoenbrun, has been particularly noteworthy. Their performance earned critical acclaim and nominations for prestigious awards, including the Gotham Awards for Outstanding Supporting Performance and the Independent Spirit Awards for Best Supporting Performance. The film has garnered significant attention, leading the 2025 Dorian Film Awards nominations with nine nods, including Film of the Year and a Supporting Film Performance of the Year for Haven. Moreover, GALECA, The Society of LGBTQ Entertainment Critics, nominated Haven for the "We’re Wilde About You!" Rising Star Award.
A Journey of Identity and Recognition
Jack’s journey of embracing their queer and nonbinary identity has been one of courage and self-reflection. Initially coming out as queer in 2018, they later shared their nonbinary identity in a now-deleted Instagram post from November 2019. "I’m non-binary," they wrote. "Always felt a lil bit boy, lil bit girl, lil bit neither. Using they/them as of late n it feels right." This candid admission has resonated with many fans and followers, offering inspiration and support to those on similar journeys.
Haven’s recent name change and continued success in Hollywood signify a broader acceptance and celebration of diverse identities within the entertainment industry. Notably, award ceremonies like the Gotham Awards, Independent Spirit Awards, and the Dorian Awards have eschewed traditional gender-based nomination categories, reflecting a more inclusive approach to recognizing talent.
As Jack Haven continues to break boundaries and challenge norms, they serve as a beacon of empowerment and representation for the LGBTQ+ community. Through their art and public persona, they invite audiences to engage with issues of identity, acceptance, and self-expression.
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