The little girl in the photo grew up to become the richest actress in the world—surpassing Hollywood A-listers like George Clooney and Angelina Jolie. That woman is Jami Gertz, now worth over $3 billion.
Discovered through a nationwide talent search, Gertz grew up in suburban Illinois and rose to fame in the 1980s and 1990s with memorable roles in cult classics and hit films like The Lost Boys and Twister. By 16, she was already earning more than her father. Though her acting career was successful, she never chased Hollywood stardom, choosing privacy and stability instead.
In 1989, she married financier Tony Ressler—before either imagined the fortune to come. At the time, Gertz was the primary earner and even paid for their first home. Ressler later co-founded major investment firms, including Apollo Global Management and Ares Management, leading to their immense shared wealth.
Together, they are also known for their philanthropy, donating millions to causes supporting health, education, the arts, and medical research. Gertz has emphasized that her success isn’t the result of marrying rich, but of building a life and fortune together.
Though she keeps a low profile today, Jami Gertz remains a familiar face from film and television—and the wealthiest actress in the world.
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