Summary
Jami Gertz, born on October 28, 1965, in Chicago, is an American actress and philanthropist known for her memorable roles in films like Sixteen Candles, The Lost Boys, and Twister, as well as TV shows like Square Pegs, Ally McBeal, and Still Standing. Standing at 5'5", she began acting in the early 1980s and rose to fame with a mix of teen comedies, dramas, and sitcoms. Married to billionaire Antony Ressler since 1989, she is also a dedicated philanthropist, donating millions to education, health, and community causes. As of 2025, her net worth is estimated at $8 billion, making her one of the wealthiest women in entertainment. Gertz’s career is marked by versatility, longevity, and a balance between family, fame, and charitable work.
Some stars shine brightly for a moment; others keep glowing for decades. Jami Gertz is one of those rare gems who has managed to capture hearts both on and off the screen. Known for her acting in beloved films and TV shows, her warm personality, and her incredible success outside of Hollywood, she’s a true example of talent meeting grace.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into Jami Gertz’s life — her age, height, family, career highlights, TV roles, awards, net worth, and more. You’ll discover how she went from being a young actress in the 1980s to one of the wealthiest women in the entertainment industry today.
Early Life and Background
Jami Beth Gertz was born on October 28, 1965, in Chicago, Illinois, USA. Raised in a middle-class Jewish family, she grew up in the suburb of Glenview. Her father, Walter Gertz, worked as a building contractor, while her mother, Sharyn, was a homemaker. The values instilled in her from a young age — hard work, humility, and kindness — would later shape both her career and personal life.
Age and Date of Birth
As of 2025, Jami Gertz is 59 years old. Born under the zodiac sign Scorpio, she embodies the sign’s traits – passionate, determined, and fiercely loyal.
Height, Weight, and Physical Appearance
Jami stands at 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) tall and weighs around 58 kg (128 lbs). Even decades into her career, she maintains a graceful and youthful presence. Her dark brown hair and expressive eyes have always been a part of her iconic screen appeal.
Family and Personal Life
Jami is married to Antony Ressler, a billionaire investor and co-founder of Ares Management. The couple tied the knot in 1989 and share three sons: Oliver, Nicholas, and Theo. Despite their wealth and fame, Jami and her family prefer a low-profile, grounded lifestyle. They currently reside in Los Angeles, balancing business, philanthropy, and family life.
Education and Early Interests
Jami attended Maine East High School and later studied drama at New York University. Her passion for acting was evident from a young age, participating in school plays and local theater productions. Unlike many stars who stumbled into acting, Jami pursued it with clear determination.
Acting Career Beginnings
Jami’s career began with small roles in TV series like “Diff’rent Strokes” and “The Facts of Life” in the early 1980s. Her fresh-faced charm and acting skills quickly caught the attention of casting directors. This led to her first significant film appearance in “Endless Love” (1981).
Breakthrough Roles in the 1980s
The 1980s marked Jami’s breakthrough in Hollywood. She appeared in cult classics like:
- “Sixteen Candles” (1984) – A John Hughes classic where her role added charm to the coming-of-age story.
- “The Lost Boys” (1987) – A vampire-themed film that became a pop-culture icon.
- “Less Than Zero” (1987) – A drama based on Bret Easton Ellis’s novel, showcasing her ability to take on complex roles.
These films solidified her status as one of the most memorable faces of the decade.
Memorable TV Shows
Jami’s television career is equally impressive. Some of her most notable TV appearances include:
- “Square Pegs” (1982–1983) – Her first major TV role, playing Muffy Tepperman.
- “Still Standing” (2002–2006) – A sitcom where she starred as Judy Miller, a relatable and witty mom.
- “Ally McBeal” (2000–2002) – Her role as Kimmy Bishop earned her an Emmy Award nomination.
Her versatility allowed her to move seamlessly between comedy and drama.
Notable Movie Roles
Apart from her 80s hits, Jami appeared in several notable films later in her career, including:
- “Twister” (1996) – Playing Dr. Melissa Reeves in the blockbuster disaster movie.
- “Jersey Girl” (1992) – A romantic comedy that further showcased her range.
Career in the 1990s and 2000s
While the late 80s and early 90s saw her focusing on film, Jami made a strong return to television in the 2000s. She became a household name with “Still Standing” and guest roles in popular series. Her career choices reflected a balance between work and family life, avoiding the burnout many actors face.
Philanthropy and Social Work
Jami and her husband are among Hollywood’s most generous philanthropists. They are known for donating millions to education, health, and community development. The couple is part of The Giving Pledge, committing to donate the majority of their wealth to charitable causes.
Awards and Achievements
While Jami may not have a shelf full of Oscars, her career is decorated with critical praise and industry respect:
- Emmy Nomination – For Ally McBeal (2001).
- Recognized for her contributions to charity and community service.
Her legacy extends beyond acting — she is admired for her humanitarian work as much as her talent.
Net Worth and Sources of Income
As of 2025, Jami Gertz’s net worth is estimated at $8 billion, making her one of the wealthiest women in entertainment. This wealth primarily comes from her husband Antony Ressler’s investment empire, her own acting career, and real estate investments. Despite her fortune, Jami maintains a modest public image.
Influence and Legacy
Jami Gertz is more than just a Hollywood actress — she’s a role model for balancing fame, family, and philanthropy. Her career path shows that success doesn’t have to come at the cost of personal values. She remains an inspiration for young actors and philanthropists alike.
Conclusion
From Glenview to Hollywood stardom and billionaire philanthropy, Jami Gertz’s journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and grace. Whether on the silver screen or behind the scenes, she continues to shine — not just as an actress, but as a compassionate human being.
Also Read : Kelly LeBrock – Age, Height, Family, Career, TV Shows, Awards, Net Worth
FAQs
1. How old is Jami Gertz now?
Jami Gertz is 59 years old as of 2025.
2. What is Jami Gertz’s net worth?
Her net worth is estimated to be around $8 billion.
3. Who is Jami Gertz married to?
She is married to Antony Ressler, a billionaire investor.
4. What was Jami Gertz’s most famous movie?
One of her most famous films is The Lost Boys (1987).
5. Has Jami Gertz won any major awards?
While she hasn’t won major film awards, she earned an Emmy nomination for Ally McBeal.
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