Jami Gertz, the beloved actress from iconic 80s films like “The Lost Boys” and “Sixteen Candles,” has undergone a remarkable transformation. Today, at 59, she’s a billionaire philanthropist, devoted wife and mother, and owner of an NBA team. Her journey from Hollywood fame to business mogul is a testament to her adaptability, intelligence, and passion.
Gertz’s early life was marked by a supportive family and a strong Jewish upbringing. Her parents, Sharyn and Walter, encouraged her acting ambitions, and her father even accompanied her to Los Angeles when she landed her breakout role in the sitcom “Square Pegs.” This familial support would remain a constant in her life as she navigated the ups and downs of her career.
Behind the scenes of Less Than Zero (1987) with @RobertDowneyJr, Jami Gertz and Andrew McCarthy pic.twitter.com/yiOxA8WEyK
— IMDb (@IMDb) May 31, 2020
In the 1980s, Gertz was the quintessential “it girl,” starring in a string of hit films and television shows. However, as her acting career peaked, she met Tony Ressler, a rising financier who would change her life. The two bonded over their shared Jewish heritage and fell deeply in love.
Gertz’s marriage to Ressler marked a significant turning point in her life. As his private equity firm, Ares Management, grew into a billion-dollar empire, Gertz found herself at the helm of a new venture – raising their three sons. Though she stepped back from acting, she remained committed to her family and philanthropic pursuits.
In 2014, Ressler and Gertz made a bold move, purchasing the Atlanta Hawks NBA team. Gertz became part-owner and the face of the franchise, bringing her signature enthusiasm and charm to the role. As a courtside regular, she’s been instrumental in reshaping the team’s culture and engaging with the community.
It’s the world’s biggest Hawks fan’s birthday! Happy birthday to Principal Owner, Jami Gertz ❤️🥳 pic.twitter.com/ibo2huEM7P
— Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) October 28, 2023
Under Gertz and Ressler’s leadership, the Hawks have shown steady improvement, reaching the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021. Their commitment to community outreach and philanthropy has also made a significant impact. Through the Ressler-Gertz Foundation, the couple has donated millions to various causes, earning them a spot on Forbes’ list of most generous celebrities.
Gertz’s story is a remarkable tale of reinvention and growth. From her early days as a Hollywood starlet to her current role as a billionaire power player, she’s proven that with determination, passion, and a willingness to take risks, anything is possible.
