Since starting her career as an actress, Jami Gertz has stepped out of the spotlight to focus on her growing empire.
Gertz rose to fame in ‘80s as a teen actress, appearing in multiple films including Crossroads, Quicksilver and Sixteen Candles. She also landed roles on the TV series Square Pegs, Dreams, The Facts of Life and more.
Amid her blossoming career, Gertz fell in love with businessman Tony Ressler. The couple wed in 1989, going on to welcome three children. As Gertz and Ressler began to expand their family, the actress stepped away from Hollywood to prioritize her children.
“I’m focused on being a wife and mom now,” Gertz told People in 2001. “My first question when I’m offered a part is, ‘Where’s it being shot?'”
While Gertz’s top priority was being a mom, she continued to act in various projects. In addition to acting, Gertz has become an investor and philanthropist, building a business that has made her a billionaire.
Keep scrolling for everything to know about Gertz:
What TV and Movie Roles Is Jami Gertz Known For?
Gertz’s first film role was in 1981’s On the Right Track. She later appeared in Sixteen Candles as Robin and as Terri in Quicksilver. Gertz also starred in Less Than Zero alongside Andrew McCarthy and Robert Downey Jr. Her most famous movie role is as Dr. Melissa Reeves in Twisters.
As for TV, Gertz had roles in the series Square Pegs, Dreams, Sibs, ER, Ally McBeal, Still Standing, Entourage, The Neighbors and more. Gertz’s performance in Ally McBeal earned her an Emmy nomination.
When Did Jami Gertz Stop Acting?
Gertz has taken multiple breaks from acting since becoming a mother. Her most recent project was in the 2022 movie I Want You Back.
Who Is Jami Gertz Married to?
Gertz married Tony Ressler in 1989. They share three children. While Ressler is a well-known businessman, Gertz shared that she and her husband are financial equals.
“Everyone thinks I married a rich guy,” Gertz said in a 2018 interview with The Hollywood Reporter. “But I made more money — way more money — than Tony when I met him. I paid for our first house. I paid for our first vacation. I married him because I fell in love with him.”
What Are Jami Gertz’s Business Ventures?
Gertz and Ressler are members of the investment group that purchased the MLB team the Milwaukee Brewers. The couple are also owners of the NBA team the Atlanta Hawks. Gertz has represented the Hawks for the NBA draft lottery in 2018, 2019 and 2020.
The actress also runs her investment company Laurel Grove Capital.
What Charities Is Jamie Gertz Involved In?
Gertz and Ressler were previously named as top donors for the Giving Back Fund. The pair also helped cofound the Painted Turtle Camp, a nonprofit that provides a year-round, life-changing environment and authentic camp experience for children with chronic illnesses.
Gertz has served as a board member of the Melanoma Research Alliance.
Is Jami Gertz a Billionaire?
Gertz has been dubbed as one of the richest women in Hollywood. She and Ressler have a reported combined net worth of more than $10 billion.
