Jami Gertz is a name that often surprises people when they hear about her staggering net worth of $8 billion. Recognized as the richest actor in the world, her wealth towers over Hollywood legends like Tom Cruise, Robert De Niro, and even Tyler Perry.
But how did Jami Gertz, who is best remembered for her roles in TV shows and 80s movies like The Lost Boys and Twister, amass such incredible wealth? Spoiler alert—it’s not just her acting career.
This blog will take you through her fascinating rise to wealth, breaking down her early acting success, her marriage to billionaire investor Tony Ressler, strategic investments, and philanthropy that have defined her legacy.
Who is Jami Gertz?
Before we talk about billions, it’s important to know who Jami Gertz is. Born on October 28, 1965, in Chicago, Illinois, Jami grew up in a middle-class Jewish family. She attended Maine East High School and later enrolled at New York University. Her big break came when she was discovered during a nationwide talent search by television producer Norman Lear.
Gertz began her acting career in the 1980s with roles in hit TV shows like Square Pegs and The Facts of Life. She quickly transitioned into movies, starring in cult classics such as Sixteen Candles, Less Than Zero, and the iconic vampire film The Lost Boys.
While these roles made her a recognized name, her acting career never quite propelled her into the A-list. But Gertz didn’t need box-office blockbusters to make her mark—her real story was just getting started.
A Journey in Television
After her heyday in movies, Jami found consistent work on television. She starred in the sitcom Still Standing from 2002 to 2006, playing Judy Miller, a working-class mom.
Gertz also had memorable guest roles in shows like Seinfeld, Ally McBeal (earning her an Emmy nomination), and Modern Family. Despite not being a household name on the scale of her contemporaries, Jami Gertz remained a steady presence in Hollywood for decades.
Jami Gertz Net Worth Breakdown
While Gertz enjoyed a steady acting career, most of her net worth can be attributed to her marriage to billionaire financier Tony Ressler. Together, the couple has built a financial empire that has catapulted her to the top of the celebrity wealth list.
Net Worth Progression Over the Years
- 2015 – $1 billion: Jami and Tony Ressler debuted on the billionaire list, thanks to the exponential growth of investments.
- 2017 – $1.8 billion: Their wealth nearly doubled due to the performance of Ressler’s businesses and strategic acquisitions.
- 2024 – $8 billion (current): Through diversified investments, sports team ownership, and growing asset management firms, the couple’s net worth stands at an incredible $8 billion.
Sources of Wealth
Apollo Global Management and Ares Management
Tony Ressler co-founded these financial powerhouses, which manage over $800 billion in combined assets. These firms are the backbone of their massive fortune.
Sports Ownership
The couple co-owns the Atlanta Hawks, a popular NBA team, and holds a minority stake in the Milwaukee Brewers (MLB). Sports ownership has proven to be not only lucrative but also a significant part of their public persona.
How Jami and Tony Ressler Built Their Empire
Jami Gertz and Tony Ressler’s financial empire goes far beyond Hollywood paychecks or even conventional investments. Here’s a closer look at the couple’s key ventures:
Diversified Investments
Tony Ressler’s entrepreneurial foresight laid the groundwork for their $8 billion fortune. With Apollo Global Management and later Ares Management, he reshaped the private equity and financial services landscape. These firms invest in everything from real estate to private credit, reaping massive returns over the years.
Sports Teams as Assets
Buying into the Atlanta Hawks wasn’t just a passion project—it was a strategic investment with huge returns. The NBA team’s value has grown significantly since their acquisition, solidifying it as a key part of their empire. Minor investments in other franchises, like their stake in the Milwaukee Brewers, further diversified their portfolio.
Philanthropic Commitments
Jami and Tony Ressler are not just known for wealth—they’re celebrated philanthropists. Their Ressler-Gertz Foundation supports children’s health, arts, education, and community development.
They co-founded the Painted Turtle Camp, which offers a safe haven for children with chronic illnesses. Their 2012 donation of $10 million earned them the title of top celebrity donors, showcasing their commitment to giving back.
Jami’s Acting Career and Successes
While Jami’s acting income pales in comparison to her investment-derived wealth, her career still deserves recognition.
- Notable Roles
From The Lost Boys to Twister, Jami Gertz captured the audience’s imagination in both cult hits and mainstream blockbusters.
- Critical Recognition
Her portrayal of Kimmy Bishop on Ally McBeal earned her an Emmy nomination, proving her acting chops beyond just commercial roles.
- Staying Power
Jami has kept her Hollywood connections alive with guest roles in modern hits like This Is Us and Modern Family. Her ability to adapt and stay relevant has kept her legacy intact.
Luxury Real Estate Ventures
Jami and Tony’s lifestyle reflects their fortune, with properties valued between $30 million and $50 million. Their luxury portfolio includes:
- A sprawling Beverly Hills mansion located in an exclusive gated community, surrounded by celebrity neighbors like Denzel Washington and Eddie Murphy.
- A Malibu estate overlooking Broad Beach, one of California’s most desirable coastal locations.
These homes serve as not just private retreats but also visible symbols of their success.
Why Jami Gertz’s Legacy Matters
Jami Gertz’s story isn’t just about acting or wealth—it’s about resilience, adaptability, and vision. From a working actress in the 80s to a philanthropist and businesswoman worth billions, she epitomizes the modern reinvention of a celebrity.
Her ability to seamlessly pivot from Hollywood to business is a case study in diversification and long-term wealth-building. For entrepreneurs and aspiring investors, her story offers a profound lesson in using one’s platform to leverage greater opportunities.
Learn From Jami Gertz’s Journey
Jami Gertz’s extraordinary rise from a Hollywood actress to the world’s richest actor is nothing short of inspirational. Her story is a powerful reminder that wealth and legacy are built over time through smart decisions, adaptability, and giving back to the community.
Looking for more fascinating celebrity stories like this one? Stay tuned for insights into the lives of inspirational figures who have turned dreams into billion-dollar realities.
FAQs
How did Jami Gertz achieve her wealth?
While her acting career provided a steady income, the majority of her wealth stems from her marriage to Tony Ressler and their shared investment ventures.
What sports teams does Jami Gertz own?
She co-owns the Atlanta Hawks (NBA) and has a minority stake in the Milwaukee Brewers (MLB).
Who is Jami Gertz’s husband?
Tony Ressler, an influential billionaire and co-founder of Apollo Global Management and Ares Management.
Is Jami Gertz still married?
Yes, she and Tony Ressler have been happily married since 1989.