80s Film Star Jami Gertz Emerges in Los Angeles with Multi-Billion Dollar Fortune
Jami Gertz, the celebrated movie queen from the 1980s, made a rare public sighting in Los Angeles this week, showcasing her enduring presence in the entertainment world. The actress, now 60 years old, attended the prestigious LACMA opening gala for The David Geffen Galleries at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art on Thursday, drawing attention not only for her iconic career but also for her staggering $8 billion net worth.
A Storied Career in Film and Television
Gertz's journey to stardom began early when she was discovered in a nationwide talent search by legendary producer Norman Lear. She honed her craft studying drama at NYU before making her film debut in the 1981 romance Endless Love, starring alongside Tom Cruise and Brooke Shields. Her breakthrough came with roles in beloved 80s classics, including The Lost Boys as Star, the half-vampire girlfriend, and Less Than Zero, where she played the girlfriend of Andrew McCarthy's character, aiding Robert Downey Jr.'s drug-addicted role.
Her filmography expanded with notable appearances in Crossroads, Quicksilver, and the blockbuster Twister with Helen Hunt. On television, Gertz shined in guest spots, most memorably in a 1994 Seinfeld episode where she portrayed a phone sex operator who famously couldn't "spare a square" of toilet paper for Elaine. She also had recurring roles on shows like ER as Dr. Nina Pomerantz and Ally McBeal as Kimmy Bishop.
From Acting to Astute Investments
Beyond her on-screen success, Gertz has built an impressive financial empire. Married to private equity investor Antony Ressler since 1989, the couple has leveraged their business acumen into a multi-billion dollar fortune. Gertz revealed that she was earning more than her husband when they first met in the 1980s, and their combined ingenuity has led to wise investments in sports franchises, including ownership of the Milwaukee Brewers and the Atlanta Hawks.
According to Celebrity Net Worth, her $8 billion wealth surpasses that of Hollywood heavyweights like Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt, and Jennifer Lopez, highlighting her transition from actress to financial powerhouse.
Legacy and Recent Endeavors
In recent years, Gertz continued to act, starring in the ABC sitcom The Neighbors from 2012 to 2014. Her rare appearance at the LACMA gala underscores her lasting influence in both entertainment and business circles. With a career spanning decades and a fortune built on smart investments, Jami Gertz remains a formidable figure, blending her artistic roots with entrepreneurial success.
