Brendan Fraser‘s middle son, Holden Fletcher Fraser, 22, has faced his own significant challenges. In the fourth grade, Holden was diagnosed with benign Rolandic epilepsy, a condition characterized by seizures primarily during the transition between waking and sleeping. In an interview with Moffly Media, he described this condition as the most daunting challenge he has ever faced, describing it as “an immensely stressful and frightening experience at such a young age.”
Holden’s concerns extended beyond the immediate effects of his condition. “While medication got them under control for some period of time, I was worried that the seizures would follow me for the rest of my life,” he shared.
However, his situation improved dramatically with time. “Fortunately, after a clean diagnostic test when I was sixteen, I learned that I had outgrown the epilepsy and have been seizure-free ever since,” he added.
Now, Holden is forging his own path in life. Here’s a closer look at how he’s shaping his future.
He Is a Budding Model
Holden is a rising star in the fashion industry, having graced the covers of several prominent magazines and collaborated with well-known brands. He is signed with Marilyn Agency in New York and Chapter Management in London.
Standing at 6 feet 2 inches tall and featuring distinctive dark brown features, Fraser has worked with high-profile companies including Bergdorf Goodman and a few more.
In June 2023, he appeared alongside his younger brother, Leland, on the editorial page of ODDA Korea.
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Just a few months later, in September, Holden also made his runway debut at the Hermès FW23 Men’s RTW show, titled ‘Walking on Air.’
He Continues The Family Acting Tradition
Fraser’s acting journey began not under the spotlight but behind the scenes of his middle school theater at Brunswick School. Encouraged by his theater teacher, Seth Potter, Holden initially aimed for the lead in the school’s production of Oliver. Despite not landing the role—too tall and not fitting the visual bill—he found joy and a calling in the part of a street urchin. This early setback didn’t deter him; it ignited a passion for acting.
As he grew, so did his roles, from playing the profound writer Anton Chekhov to a bold suitor in Enda Walsh’s Penelope, and a lively Davey in Newsies, he has been exploring all acting genres.
Despite his strong family background, confidence in his own abilities wasn’t immediate. Initially, he struggled with self-doubt. However, over time, with the utmost support from his teachers, friends, and family, he has grown more assured in his acting skills.
During a conversation with Keanu Reeves for ODDA Korea in May 2023, Holden also explained how his approach to acting has matured. In the beginning, he often looked to how others interpreted roles, but he gradually learned the importance of bringing his own insights and interpretations into his performances.
Now a student at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, he continues to refine his craft.
Holden Was a Co-President Of an LGBTQ Group In High School
While attending Brunswick School, he served as the co-president of Wickpride, a student group dedicated to discussing and addressing LGBTQ+ issues. His primary goal was to increase awareness and support within the school for LGBTQ+ students.
Under his leadership, the organization not only raised funds for The Trevor Project but also collaborated with faculty to foster safer classroom environments for queer individuals. “We’ve built up this really great foundation. I’m fairly happy where I’ve left it,” he said to Moffly Media.
He Advocates for Autism Awareness Inspired by His Brother Griffin
Holden grew up alongside his two brothers, Griffin Arthur Fraser, 24, and Leland Francis Fraser, 20. Unfortunately, Griffin was diagnosed with severe autism and Tourette’s syndrome at a very early age, which has deeply influenced Holden to dedicate himself to autism advocacy. He actively supports various charitable organizations and serves on the youth board of Abilis, a charity that holds special significance for his family.
Speaking about the impact of this organization, he said, “My older brother was diagnosed with severe autism and Tourette’s, and Abilis has been a great resource for us. Any way we can give back to Abilis, we hop on it.”
Brendan Says He Is Ready to Sacrifice Everything for His Sons
In a 2010 interview with PARADE, Brendan, who shared his three kids with his former wife Afton Smith, 58, expressed his unconditional love and commitment to his children, saying, “I always hug and kiss them whether they like it or not. I would do whatever it takes to save them. What parent wouldn’t? I’d throw myself in front of a train if I had to for their well-being. That doesn’t mean you can protect them from everything, but you have to try.”
His dedication was also evident during his Oscar acceptance speech, where he compared his experiences to a challenging ordeal supported by his sons. “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,” he said.
