Who is Jahaira James? A Look at Dancer & Former Model Amid Divorce from Bryton James

Jahaira James, a professional dancer and former model, entered the public eye through her relationship with actor Bryton James, best known for his role as Devon Hamilton on The Young and the Restless. The pair wed in a private ceremony in March 2025 but saw their marriage unravel within months, ultimately separating after just seven months together.

According to TMZ, Bryton James initiated divorce proceedings in Los Angeles on Monday, October 13, 2025. The filing includes a formal request to terminate any potential spousal support obligations.

Jahaira James: Career and Professional Background

A native of North Carolina, Jahaira James has built a distinguished career in the world of performance arts. Her professional foundation lies in dance, and she has collaborated with major international entertainment companies, most notably Cirque du Soleil. She spent three years with the Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group in Las Vegas, performing in one of the most rigorous and technically demanding live shows globally.

Her résumé further includes a standout performance alongside global music icon Beyoncé during the “Cowboy Carter” tour, solidifying her place in elite entertainment circles.

During their marriage, Bryton James publicly celebrated Jahaira’s accomplishments in a heartfelt Instagram post in May 2025—later deleted—sharing images of her performing. As reported by People, he wrote:

“What you’re looking at is the culmination of a lifetime of work, discipline, dedication, strength, bravery, and belief that my love, Jahaira, continues to exude. Her journey is what inspiration wants to be when it grows up. And I am beyond proud to be a witness to her art as we share this life together 🖤.”

Jahaira responded with equal sentiment in the comments:

“Sharing this life and this stage with you is the greatest gift. Thank you for seeing me the way you do.”

Marriage and Divorce Proceedings

Though the couple never made a formal public announcement regarding their marriage, they tied the knot in March 2025. Their relationship was first made public in February 2025 when Bryton shared affectionate photos on Instagram with the caption “My Everything,” a post that has since been removed.

In his court filing, the actor also requested that Jahaira revert to her former name following the finalization of the divorce.

Bryton James was previously married to The Young and the Restless co-star Ashley Leisinger from 2011 until 2014. Beyond his soap opera fame, he is also widely recognized for portraying Richie Crawford on the sitcom Family Matters between 1990 and 1997.

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