Brendan Fraser Is Private about Autistic Son & Keeps Him Out of View — 4 Times We Saw Them Together
- Brendan Fraser is known for his roles in blockbuster films, but he is also a loving father to three sons. His eldest son, Griffin, is autistic and Fraser has rarely shown him in public.
- But in recent interviews and events, Fraser has opened up about his son’s life and how it has changed his own.
- Here are four rare occasions when they were seen together and the public were able to witness their bond.
Brendan Fraser, the well-known actor who gained fame for his roles in popular 90s films such as The Mummy and George of the Jungle, has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence in his career after a decade of personal and professional difficulties.
As well as receiving praise for his performances in recent films such as The Whale and Killers of the Flower Moon, Fraser’s journey back into the limelight has been influenced by his immense pride in being a father to his three sons – Griffin, Holden and Leland. These sons are his joint responsibility with his ex-wife, Afton Smith.
Fraser, who turned 54 this year, has been open about the challenges he has faced in his career and personal life, including divorce, multiple surgeries, sexual assault and depression. He has also spoken about finding solace in his sons. He said in an interview:
“I don’t know if I’ve been sent to the glue factory, but I’ve felt like I’ve had to rebuild shit that I’ve built that got knocked down and do it again for the good of everyone.”
Fraser, accompanied by two of his sons, Holden and Leland, made a rare public appearance at the 2023 Oscars. He was nominated for Best Actor for his portrayal of a morbidly obese recluse in the film “The Whale.” Joining him was his girlfriend, Jeanne Moore, and the couple appeared content and affectionate as they posed for pictures on the red carpet. However, Fraser’s eldest son, Griffin, was notably absent from the event.
Brendan Fraser Expresses His Love for His Autistic Son
Born on 17 September 2002, Griffin Arthur Fraser holds a special place in his father’s heart. Living on the autism spectrum, Griffin’s unique presence has touched the lives of many, especially his doting father.
In a touching moment at the Oscars in March 2023, after winning the Best Actor award for his role in The Whale, Fraser tearfully mentioned his three sons in his acceptance speech, including a loving shout-out to Griffin.
In a heartfelt interview with GQ in 2018, Fraser opened up about his eldest son’s life with autism, acknowledging the positive impact it has had on his life. Griffin is a unique and remarkable young man whose very presence, according to his father, has a healing effect on those he meets, making them more compassionate and understanding.
He told GQ how he found an unexpected companion in Griffin, a magnificent silver horse. After watching the horse being taunted by his more elegant peers, he saw a reflection of resilience and determination in the horse’s eyes and knew he had found a partner with untapped potential, a role that seemed tailor-made for Griffin.
He went on to show his affection for his son in a touching moment at the Oscars in March 2023, after winning the Best Actor award for his role in The Whale. Fraser tearfully mentioned his three sons in his acceptance speech, including a loving shout-out to Griffin, who did not attend the event. It was clear that Griffin’s presence in his life had brought him immeasurable joy and love. He said with a trembling voice:
“It’s been like I’ve been on a diving expedition to the bottom of the ocean, and the air on the line has come from some people in my life like my sons Holden and Leland and Griffin — I love you, Griffey!”
Fraser’s triumphant moment at the Oscars was undoubtedly a cause for celebration, as fans and industry colleagues rejoiced at his well-deserved win. However, amidst the celebrations, the actor faced criticism from some quarters for what was perceived as a ‘hiding’ of his son Griffin.
While the public appearance with two of his sons, Holden and Leland, and his girlfriend was a heartwarming display of family support, some questioned Griffin’s absence from the high-profile event. For some critics, the decision to attend the Oscars without his autistic son seemed like an attempt to shield him from the spotlight, leading to debates about inclusivity and representation.
For Fraser, being the father of a child with special needs brings with it a unique set of considerations and responsibilities. As a loving and protective parent, he has been a consistent advocate for autism awareness and support, using his platform to raise awareness of the challenges faced by families with autistic members.
Fraser’s film ‘Extraordinary Measures’, which portrays a father on the brink of losing his critically ill children, brought a new appreciation for his healthy children.
Griffin Fraser’s relationship with his siblings
Holden Fletcher Fraser, born on 16 August 2004, is the middle child of Fraser and Smith. Holden shares a special bond with his older brother, Griffin, as the two have grown up side by side and faced life’s challenges together.
In interviews, Fraser has spoken of the unique dynamic between Holden and Griffin. He affectionately described them as “the spokesman and the enforcer” from an early age, demonstrating their deep connection and understanding of each other.
Fraser’s film Extraordinary Measures, about a father on the brink of losing his critically ill children, gave him a new appreciation for his healthy children. His love for Holden and his youngest son, Leland, knows no bounds. The actor openly expressed his devotion to his children and how he would do anything to ensure their well-being.
Throughout his comeback in The Whale, Holden has shown immense pride and support for his father. He made a rare public appearance at a screening of the film in New York City in November 2022 alongside his father. It’s clear the bond between father and son remains strong and unwavering. He proudly stated:
“We are unbelievably proud. Over the moon.”
Fraser’s youngest son, Leland Francis Fraser, was born on 2 May 2006. Described by his father as a “professional firecracker”, Leland has an adventurous spirit and a zest for life.
Fraser has lovingly recounted anecdotes about Leland’s fearlessness. He charges through life with infectious enthusiasm. Leland approaches life with a fearless attitude that brings joy to those around him, whether exploring the great outdoors or taking on new challenges.
Fraser has made it clear that nothing can overshadow the importance of his sons in his life.
As a father, Fraser cherishes every moment he spends with them and relishes the opportunity to share what he works with. He believes in the power of shared family experiences and understands the importance of creating positive memories together.
In November 2022, Leland was at his brother Holden’s side as they walked the red carpet with their father at a screening of The Whale at Lincoln Center. The Fraser family’s support and love for each other was evident, and Leland’s presence added to the heartwarming occasion.
As well as being a successful actor, Fraser is a devoted father. He has shown his son Griffin unconditional love, respect and admiration. He has also shared his son’s story with the world in the hope of raising awareness and acceptance of autism. He has proven that being a father is not about being perfect, but about being present.
The Father-Son Duo Through the Years
Fraser’s journey as a father has been a heartwarming display of love and devotion, marked by moments of strength, vulnerability and unwavering support for his sons, especially Griffin. Fraser has been honest about the challenges and struggles he faced when he learned of Griffin’s diagnosis. But over time, he has embraced his role as a father with grace and dedication.
Griffin’s presence has taught Fraser valuable lessons about compassion, empathy and the power of unconditional love. Griffin is a gentle giant, standing six feet tall with a big, warm heart that knows no cynicism or irony. Fraser describes him as saying
“He’s a big kid. He’s six foot five. He’s got big hands and feet, a big body,”
To his father, Griffin is a manifestation of love, exuding a happiness that is infectious to all who are lucky enough to know him. In a world that can often be harsh and unforgiving, Griffin’s genuine and unfiltered nature serves as a guiding light, a reminder of the simple joys and pure connections that life can offer.
These precious photographs capture the father-son duo through the years and show the bond that has blossomed between Fraser and Griffin. Their smiles reveal the deep affection they share.
The bond between father and son, a constant source of joy and motivation for Fraser, grows stronger with each passing year. These snapshots are proof that beyond the glamour of Hollywood, Fraser’s greatest role is that of a loving and proud father. Always there for his sons, celebrating their achievements and offering unconditional love through life’s challenges.
As the father-son duo stand side by side, their journey unfolds with love, hope and a shared determination to make a positive impact on each other’s lives and the world around them.
