Jess Brolin, born into a family of renowned entertainers, once had the stability of a trust fund but ultimately lost it all. Determined to forge his own path, he distanced himself from his wealthy relatives to live independently. Although his situation has improved in recent years, it remains vastly different from the privilege of his family’s fortune.
Jess Brolin, son of actor James Brolin, once had financial security through an inheritance from his late mother. However, after exhausting his funds, he lost his home and spent years without stable shelter, often sleeping in his truck or outdoors.
In contrast, his father, James Brolin, and stepmother, Barbra Streisand, live in a lavish multimillion-dollar estate in Malibu. Jess’s financial struggles stem from a pivotal moment in his life—the passing of his mother decades ago and the eventual depletion of his six-figure inheritance.
Jess Brolin’s Early Life and Financial Decline
Born into Hollywood royalty, Jess Brolin is the son of acclaimed actor James Brolin and the stepson of music and film icon Barbra Streisand. Despite his family’s wealth and influence, Jess faced a turbulent financial journey that led him down an unexpected path.
Inheriting a six-figure sum from his late mother, Jane Cameron Agee, Jess initially had financial stability. However, over time, his funds dwindled, and he ultimately lost his home. Without a permanent place to stay, he resorted to living in his truck and, at times, sleeping in public spaces.
Meanwhile, his father, James Brolin, and stepmother, Barbra Streisand, reside in a sprawling multimillion-dollar Malibu estate. Jess’s struggles can be traced back to the profound loss of his mother, which marked a turning point in his life. While his financial situation has seen some improvement in recent years, it remains far removed from the affluence of his famous family.
For years, Jess Brolin’s inheritance provided him with financial stability, enabling him to live independently. However, by 2011, his funds were depleted, leading to his eviction from his $824-a-month apartment. With no financial safety net, he found himself without stable housing, marking the beginning of a prolonged period of hardship and uncertainty.
Living on the Streets: Homelessness and Dumpster Diving
After losing his financial security and stable housing, Jess Brolin faced years of homelessness. With limited options, he resorted to sleeping in his truck, on sidewalks, or in vacant lots. Struggling to survive, he was often seen rummaging through dumpsters for food and essentials.
Despite his father, James Brolin, and stepmother, Barbra Streisand, living in luxury, Jess chose to navigate his hardships on his own. His situation became a stark contrast to the privileged world he was born into, highlighting the challenges he faced in the absence of financial stability.
In the photos, Jess Brolin appeared visibly overweight and was seen collecting discarded food. A source close to him revealed that he often slept behind shops or on public benches, seeking whatever shelter he could find. His struggle for basic necessities underscored the harsh reality of his life on the streets.
“Looking at him, you wouldn’t realize he is part of one of the biggest, most successful showbiz families in the world. It is a heartbreaking situation,” the source said.
Despite the hardships, Jess eventually managed to find temporary shelter, moving into a modest motel in Ojai. Though an improvement from life on the streets, his living conditions remained a far cry from the luxury enjoyed by his famous relatives.
Moving into a Modest Motel
After years of struggling with homelessness, Jess Brolin eventually found temporary refuge in a modest motel in Ojai. While it provided him with a roof over his head, his living conditions remained humble and vastly different from the lavish lifestyle of his father, James Brolin, and stepmother, Barbra Streisand.
Though no longer sleeping on the streets, Jess continued to live a reclusive life, maintaining his independence despite his financial struggles. His journey remained a stark contrast to the wealth and privilege of his Hollywood lineage.
The property is owned by Steve Edelson, a Los Angeles nightclub mogul. According to reports, all rooms in the small establishment were fully booked, with guests—including Jess—settling in for extended stays.
Despite its modest accommodations, the motel offered Jess a level of stability he hadn’t experienced in years. Compared to his previous life on the streets, it was a significant improvement, though it remained a far cry from the luxury and comfort enjoyed by his family.
Meanwhile, Jess’s father and stepmother continued to live in luxury. The couple resides in a sprawling $20 million estate in Malibu, surrounded by 3,000 rosebushes.
His stepmother, Barbra Streisand, one of the most successful entertainers in history, has amassed a fortune through her decades-long career, earning multiple Oscars, Grammys, and other prestigious awards. Their opulent lifestyle stands in stark contrast to Jess’s ongoing struggles.
Jess’s older brother, Josh Brolin, has built a highly successful Hollywood career. Best known for his roles in Men in Black, Avengers, and No Country for Old Men, Josh has remained a leading actor in the public eye.
In contrast, Jess has stayed out of the spotlight. Though he briefly worked in the film industry, with credits in Black Scorpion (2001), Shadow Dancer (1997), and Enemy Action (1999), his Hollywood career never gained significant momentum. His path diverged from his family’s success, leading him to a more private and challenging life.
He eventually left the entertainment world entirely, which set him even further apart from his well-known relatives. Jess and Josh are not James Brolin’s only children. After divorcing their mother, Jane, James married actress Jan Smithers, best known for her role on WKRP in Cincinnati. This added another layer of separation between Jess and his father’s more public, star-studded life.
From that marriage, Jess gained a younger half-sister, Molly Elizabeth Brolin, born in 1987. Unlike Josh, who followed in their father’s footsteps, both Jess and Molly have largely stayed out of the public eye.
Barbra Streisand, too, had a previous marriage before tying the knot with James Brolin. She was once married to actor Elliott Gould, with whom she shares a son, Jason Gould, born in 1966. Like Jess and Molly, Jason has largely remained out of the limelight, though he has occasionally appeared in public and pursued a career in acting and directing.
Jason, like his mother, Barbra Streisand, has pursued a career in the entertainment industry, working as both an actor and a musician. However, much like Jess, Jason prefers to maintain a low profile, stating in 2017, “I sort of like being out of the spotlight.”
Jess’s living situation has continued to raise questions about his relationship with his family and the extent of their support. Despite being part of one of the most famous families in Hollywood, his struggles have drawn attention to the differences in their lives and the level of involvement his relatives have had in his challenges.
Family’s Attempts to Help and Public Reaction
Over the years, there have been whispers about the efforts Jess’s family may have made to support him. While his father, James Brolin, and stepmother, Barbra Streisand, have continued to live in luxury, there have been speculations about whether they have intervened in Jess’s struggles. However, Jess has largely chosen to remain independent, distancing himself from the wealth and fame of his relatives.
Public reaction has been mixed. Some have expressed concern for Jess, feeling that his family’s wealth and status should have provided him with more support. Others have criticized his decision to remain outside the spotlight, wondering if his choice to live on his own terms comes at the cost of his well-being.
Despite the family’s apparent wealth, Jess’s situation remains a subject of intrigue and concern, highlighting the complex dynamics within high-profile families and the challenges faced by those who choose to live away from the public eye.
“We have offered help and support, and continue to do so. We love him very much and want only the best for him,” Jess’s family has stated.
His father, James Brolin, has also addressed Jess’s situation, suggesting that his scavenging may not have been solely for personal survival. James indicated that Jess’s actions could have been influenced by his desire to maintain his independence, rather than simply being a reflection of dire circumstances. This statement adds a layer of complexity to the family’s relationship with Jess, hinting at deeper dynamics and the tensions between their wealth and his desire to live life on his own terms.
In a 2021 interview, James Brolin claimed that Jess was involved in charitable work, saying, “I know he’s been photographed collecting bottles and cans out of the trash, but all the money went to charity.”
Despite these statements, news of Jess’s living conditions has sparked widespread sympathy and concern. Many have found it difficult to reconcile the idea of charitable intentions with the stark reality of his circumstances, leading to further speculation about his relationship with his family and the ongoing challenges he faces. The public’s response has highlighted the complexities of the Brolin family dynamic and raised questions about the level of support Jess has received.
Comments from netizens included, “Poor guy needs help,” “The poor chap needs help, not abandonment,” and “It’s very sad to see.” Many expressed deep concern for Jess, with some speculating that he might be struggling with depression.
These reactions reflect the public’s sympathy for his difficult situation, with many questioning whether the support from his family has been enough or if there might be underlying emotional struggles contributing to his circumstances. The online discussions have only intensified the debate over Jess’s relationship with his famous relatives and the complexities of his personal life.
While Jess has largely remained disconnected from his family, James and Barbra continue to be actively involved in the lives of their other children and grandchildren. The couple adores Josh’s children and frequently keeps in touch with them.
In 2018, after Josh and his wife Kathryn welcomed their daughter Westlyn, James expressed his joy, saying, “You get another one like this one, there couldn’t be anything better!” This moment of happiness highlighted the close-knit bond James and Barbra share with their immediate family, a stark contrast to Jess’s more isolated life.
He also shared that Barbra, though not related to them by blood, cherishes her role as a grandmother. “She’s just mush around them! She just turns to melted putty the minute … they talk on the phone,” he shared. This affectionate description highlighted Barbra’s deep bond with her grandchildren, revealing her nurturing side despite the complexities of her family dynamics.
Meanwhile, James and Barbra have continued to live a life of luxury, enjoying the comfort of their sprawling Malibu estate. While Jess has remained largely disconnected from them, James and Barbra have built a home filled with love, memories, and a strong family bond.
Barbra and James’s house is more than just a residence — it’s the place where they solidified their relationship and created a lasting legacy. Their journey to owning the home wasn’t easy, but it has become a symbol of their enduring marriage and the life they built together. Despite the contrasts in their lives, the home represents a place of stability and affection for James and Barbra, contrasting sharply with Jess’s ongoing struggles.
The legendary powerhouse performer, Barbra Streisand, and her iconic actor husband, James Brolin, have been living in the same house with their dogs for many years. However, the journey to buying the home was not easy. The couple had to work hard to get to where they wanted to be.
Streisand first saw the house when she was living nearby. However, she couldn’t buy it at the time because her boyfriend at the time didn’t like it. Another factor that prevented her from making the purchase was that she was unable to afford the house at that point in her life. Despite these challenges, the home ultimately became a cherished symbol of their love and shared life together.
Now, the couple lives in Streisand’s dream home — the same one that saw them recently celebrate their 26th wedding anniversary on July 1. To mark the momentous milestone, Streisand took to Instagram, posting an endearing photo of the two posing for a picture in a side embrace.
“28 years today since we met honey… and 26 years today since we married! Love you. B ❤️,” penned the Funny Girl star in her caption. The heartfelt post highlighted their enduring love and the bond they’ve built over nearly three decades together.
Brolin and Streisand live in their house with their adorable Maltese poodles, whom they are absolutely enamored with. Streisand has even shared photos of the dogs on their birthdays on her Instagram page. The couple has three poodles: Scarlet, Violet, and Fanny, and their love for the dogs is evident in the sweet posts she shares, showcasing the bond they share with their furry companions.
Brolin and Streisand live in their house with their adorable Maltese poodles, whom they are absolutely enamored with. Streisand has even shared photos of the dogs on their birthdays on her Instagram page. The couple has three poodles: Scarlet, Violet, and Fanny, and their love for the dogs is evident in the sweet posts she shares, showcasing the special bond they have with their furry companions. These dogs are a central part of their lives, bringing them joy and comfort in their home.
Streisand admitted that the house’s facade was not grand, describing it as a modern gray structure that looked like some sort of “contraption.” However, when she entered the home, she was pleasantly surprised by its “rustic charm,” which won her over. Despite its unassuming exterior, the interior of the home captivated her, and it ultimately became the place where she and James built their life together.
The Broadway star immediately fell in love with the house and was eager to purchase it. Unfortunately, this wasn’t in the cards for her at that time, and she had to wait many more years before she could finally call the house her home. Despite the initial setbacks, the house eventually became a cherished sanctuary for Streisand and James, symbolizing their love and the life they built together.
At that point, Streisand owned the ranch where she had been staying, but her manager told her that until she sold the ranch, she would not be able to afford the home she had fallen in love with. This advice delayed her dream of owning the house, but it ultimately set the stage for the life she and James would later build together in the home she had long admired.
She also admitted that her boyfriend at the time thought the home she loved was too close to the cliff on which it was situated. Streisand decided not to buy it, but she confessed, “I was so forlorn when I found out that it was sold to someone else, and they had started renovating it.” Despite her initial disappointment, the house eventually came back into her life, and she was able to fulfill her dream of making it her home years later.
Streisand’s love for the home did not fade with time. In fact, she never stopped thinking about her dream house that she could not purchase for herself. She divulged that she felt deeply about the house, describing it as something that had always held a special place in her heart. Despite the years that passed, her emotional connection to the property remained strong, and she was thrilled when the opportunity to buy it eventually came to fruition.
Although she did not buy the home at the time, Streisand still lived on the nearby ranch and often saw the property. She also mentioned that the couple who owned the house knew how much she loved it. This connection to the house lingered in her heart, and despite the obstacles, she never gave up on the dream of making it hers one day.
Talking about what she did after finding out that the home had been sold, Streisand admitted, “I would climb over the fence and walk around to see what they were doing and pine, literally pine for this house I didn’t buy.” Her deep emotional connection to the house was evident in her actions, as she couldn’t help but yearn for it even after it had been sold to someone else. This intense longing eventually led to her fulfilling the dream of making the house her own years later.
However, some years later, her luck turned around when the couple who owned the house kept her in mind as they got ready to move. Recognizing how much Streisand had loved the property, they reached out to her, offering her the chance to buy it. This fortunate turn of events allowed Streisand to finally make her dream home a reality, fulfilling her long-held desire to live in the house she had once pined for.
She even bought a house one away from her beloved home just because they were so close together. Streisand then made friends with the elderly couple who lived in the house between the one she wanted and the one she eventually owned. This connection helped her feel even more at home in the area, solidifying her bond with the property and the community around it.
She revealed that when the old couple moved away, she bought their house with the intention of knocking both homes down and building one big house for herself on the two-acre property. However, over time, she decided to preserve the charm of the existing homes, and instead, she worked to make the properties her own, blending them into a beautiful and personal sanctuary.
Lo and behold, fate finally smiled upon her. The couple in the house she had long admired got divorced and reduced the price of the property, which meant that Streisand could finally afford to purchase it for herself. In 1995, she was able to call it home. Streisand expressed her gratitude for the house, saying she was thankful she didn’t have to build it or fuss over small details, as it already had the perfect qualities she had always wanted. This turn of events allowed her to live out her long-held dream without the stress of starting from scratch.
The house is truly picture-perfect, a reflection of Streisand’s vision and taste. Nestled in a stunning location, it blends modern luxury with rustic charm, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the world. Every corner of the house seems to tell a story, from its carefully curated interiors to the beautiful grounds that surround it. Streisand has transformed it into a sanctuary, filling it with love, memories, and a deep sense of belonging. It’s more than just a home; it’s the realization of a dream she had nurtured for many years.
For the first few years, Streisand lived in the home with her husband, Brolin, and their dog at the time, Samantha. Unfortunately, Samantha has since passed away, but she left Streisand with two sweet pups, Scarlet and Violet. These dogs have since become a beloved part of their family, bringing joy and companionship to the couple as they continue to create cherished memories in their dream home.
The home sits on a large plot of land adorned with lush green lawns. An aerial shot of the house reveals the spacious garden and the pool at the front of the mansion, offering stunning views of the ocean. The driveway is located at the back of the house, adding to the sense of privacy and tranquility.
To help design the interior of her home, Streisand studied many books and drew inspiration from things she had seen while traveling that appealed to her. She also mentioned that she thoroughly enjoyed the process, relishing the opportunity to make the space reflect her personal style and taste. The result is a beautifully curated space that blends comfort with elegance, just as she had envisioned.
The actress compared designing the interior of her home to making a film; she had a dream and a vision for the space. She could clearly envision what would look good in her head and translated that into the design. Streisand confirmed that she was thrilled with the results, feeling that the house perfectly reflected her personal style and creative vision. The entire process allowed her to craft a space that felt uniquely hers, blending beauty, comfort, and functionality.
Streisand’s home sits on three acres of property and consists of four buildings. These include the mill house, the barn, Grandma’s house, and the main house where Streisand and Brolin live. Each of these structures has its own charm, contributing to the unique character of the property. The layout of the property allows for a sense of privacy while still offering ample space for the couple to enjoy their time together in a peaceful and beautiful setting.
Streisand then added streams into the landscape because she finds water to be a soothing element, enhancing the tranquility of the property. Her reason for wanting a barn was simple: she finds barns to be a staple of American culture. Interestingly, she has hens in her barn that lay green eggs, adding a charming and unexpected touch to the rural atmosphere she has cultivated. These unique elements reflect Streisand’s love for nature and her desire to create a peaceful, serene environment that feels both homely and connected to the land.
Streisand has a fish pond outside the barn, filled with black and white fish. The colors of the fish were chosen carefully because Streisand felt that they needed to complement the black and white trim on the barn houses. This attention to detail shows her dedication to creating a harmonious, aesthetically pleasing environment where every element, from the fish to the structures, works together to create a balanced and beautiful space.
Aside from the calming effect of water, Streisand also has a spiritual space in her home. She finds roses ethereal and describes walking through the rose garden on her property as a deeply spiritual experience. The garden offers her a place of tranquility and connection, allowing her to feel grounded and at peace with nature. The presence of the roses enhances the serenity of her surroundings, making it a truly special and personal retreat.
The home has seen many happy moments in Streisand’s life and has been the longest witness to her enduring marriage to her husband, James Brolin. This year, they are celebrating 26 years of marriage and are still going strong. Their home has become a symbol of their love, resilience, and the beautiful life they have built together. It stands as a testament to the enduring bond they share, filled with cherished memories and the joy of their journey together.
Brolin and Streisand’s married life has been a journey of love, partnership, and mutual respect. Despite the challenges they each faced before finding each other, they have created a strong, enduring marriage. They married in 1998, and over the years, their relationship has grown stronger, with their bond being a source of admiration to many.
The couple enjoys a relatively private life, choosing to focus on each other, their family, and their shared interests, such as their love for animals and beautiful homes. Their relationship has flourished in their dream home, which has become a sanctuary for them both. They often share moments of affection and joy, whether through personal social media posts or in interviews, showing the world that they remain deeply in love and appreciative of their time together.
In addition to their mutual admiration, Brolin and Streisand have supported each other through their careers and personal growth. They continue to enjoy their lives together, with Streisand often referring to her marriage as a source of happiness and stability. Their relationship has undoubtedly stood the test of time, with 26 years of marriage marking another milestone in their journey.
Brolin and Streisand said their “I dos” on Streisand’s property, making the occasion even more intimate and personal. During his wedding speech, Brolin expressed his deep affection for Streisand, saying, “Every night is a new adventure. Sleeping is a waste of time. I can’t wait to see her again in the morning.” His words beautifully captured the excitement and love he felt for his new wife, setting the tone for their enduring partnership. Their wedding, surrounded by the natural beauty of their property, was a perfect reflection of their unique and strong connection.
Although the COVID-19 pandemic was brutal for many people, and some relationships suffered due to the stresses of quarantine, Streisand confirmed that she and Brolin were not negatively affected. In fact, they found comfort in each other’s company and grew even closer during this challenging time. Streisand shared that being in isolation together allowed them to appreciate their relationship even more, reinforcing their bond and strengthening their marriage. Their ability to weather such a difficult period together is a testament to the resilience of their love and partnership.
Talking about how her relationship with her husband fared during the lockdown period, Streisand said, “We’ve literally fallen in love over this period of time, just being stuck together every day and making it work.” Despite the challenges of quarantine, their time spent together allowed them to deepen their connection and appreciate each other even more. Streisand’s words reflect the strength and joy they found in their relationship during such an uncertain time, reinforcing the depth of their love and commitment to one another.
Even after all the years and the many trials and tribulations that the couple has faced during their time together, they are still as in love as ever. They continue to express their deep affection for each other through their social media pages, often sharing moments that highlight their strong bond. Barbra Streisand still calls Brolin the love of her life, a testament to the enduring passion and connection they share. Their relationship remains a beautiful example of love, support, and unwavering commitment, even as time passes and life presents new challenges.
Now that they have reached 26 years of marriage, with all their kids grown and out of the house, Brolin and Streisand are enjoying a new phase in their lives: being grandparents. This exciting chapter allows them to share their love and wisdom with a new generation, filling their lives with even more joy and purpose. As grandparents, they continue to deepen their bond, cherishing the moments spent with their grandchildren and embracing the pleasures of family life in this new, rewarding stage of their relationship.
Streisand and Brolin have grandchildren from their adult children, and they always welcome them to spend time with them in their loving home. Their house, filled with warmth and affection, has become a special place where family gatherings are cherished. The couple enjoys being grandparents, creating lasting memories with their grandchildren, and sharing the love and experiences they’ve accumulated over the years. Their home remains a symbol of love, family, and the joy of having multiple generations come together.
