Jami Gertz, now 59, began her life in the public eye as the all-American girl next door, whose charm and presence lit up the screen in iconic ’80s classics such as Square Pegs, The Lost Boys, Quicksilver, and Less than Zero. As a teen actress, she was the quintessential “it girl” of the decade, effortlessly transitioning from the perky preppy roles of Square Pegs and Facts of Life to sultry, rebellious characters that captivated audiences and critics alike. She played runaways, half-vampires, and troubled teens, capturing the imagination of an entire generation. Yet, while many actors of her era became defined solely by Hollywood fame, Gertz’s trajectory would take her far beyond the confines of film and television, revealing an ambition, acumen, and vision that would later establish her as a formidable presence in business, philanthropy, and sports.
Born in 1965 to Sharyn and Walter Gertz in Glenview, Illinois, Jami was raised in a devout Jewish household alongside her two brothers, Michael and Scott. Her upbringing instilled discipline, faith, and a deep sense of community—values that would guide her throughout life. Gertz’s parents were unwavering in their support of her dreams, often going to great lengths to ensure she could thrive. When she landed her breakout role in Square Pegs, her father flew with her to Los Angeles to provide guidance and stability as she transitioned into Hollywood life. Those early experiences, balancing family loyalty and professional ambition, laid the groundwork for a career characterized not only by success on screen but also by careful navigation of opportunities, relationships, and investments in the years to come.
At the height of her acting career in the mid-1980s, Gertz met Tony Ressler, a rising financier introduced by her publicist, Susan Geller. The connection was immediate, strengthened by shared values, cultural heritage, and vision for the future. Contrary to common assumptions, Gertz, who had already accumulated significant wealth from her acting career, was financially independent, even paying for the couple’s first home and vacation. “Everyone thinks I married a rich guy,” she told 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.” Their romance evolved quickly, culminating in marriage in 1989, and together they began building a family and a financial empire.
Ressler’s ventures, including co-founding the private equity firm Ares Management, rapidly escalated the couple’s wealth, making them one of Hollywood’s most influential and financially secure duos. Gertz, who gradually stepped back from acting to focus on family life and philanthropy, leveraged her experience, insight, and public influence in entirely new arenas. With three children to raise and a growing interest in strategic investments, Gertz’s life became a careful balance of personal fulfillment and professional exploration. Her transition from Hollywood starlet to billionaire businesswoman was neither accidental nor abrupt; it was the result of foresight, discipline, and a willingness to apply her talents beyond the screen.
In 2014, the couple ventured into professional sports, acquiring the Atlanta Hawks in partnership with NBA legend Grant Hill. The opportunity arose after the team’s previous owner faced controversy and was compelled to sell. While Ressler assumed much of the operational oversight, Gertz became an active and visible partner, attending games courtside, participating in draft lotteries, and engaging fans and the community. “I think it’s fair to say that she makes a better impression on our fan base than any of us in the organization,” Ressler told The Hollywood Reporter. Her presence, energy, and enthusiasm helped elevate the Hawks’ public image and fostered a culture of accountability, professionalism, and community engagement.
Under their leadership, the Atlanta Hawks underwent significant organizational changes, including new coaching hires, strategic player acquisitions, and a stronger emphasis on community outreach and cultural impact. While the team was not immediately dominant, their steady improvements, culminating in reaching the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021, reflected careful planning, patience, and long-term vision. Beyond wins and losses, Gertz’s role demonstrated the influence a committed owner could have on shaping an organization’s identity, morale, and connection to fans. Her work with the Hawks combined her instinct for performance, cultivated in Hollywood, with her acumen in management and investment, illustrating her unique ability to excel across industries.
Beyond sports, Gertz has become a major philanthropist alongside her husband. Through the Ressler-Gertz Foundation, the couple has donated millions to initiatives in healthcare, education, and the arts, topping Forbes’ list of “30 Most Generous Celebrities” after a record $10,569,002 donation to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Gertz also serves on the board of the Melanoma Research Alliance, advocating for research and awareness while using her platform to support causes close to her heart. Balancing philanthropy, family, NBA ownership, and the occasional acting role, Gertz embodies a rare combination of discipline, passion, and strategic foresight, demonstrating that celebrity, wealth, and influence can coexist with tangible contributions to society.
Today, Jami Gertz stands as a multi-faceted figure whose life bridges Hollywood, business, and philanthropy. She is a mother, a wife, an NBA team owner, and a generous donor, whose influence extends far beyond the screen. Her journey illustrates how early discipline, family support, personal integrity, and a willingness to seize opportunities can transform a public persona into a legacy of wealth, impact, and leadership. Gertz’s story serves as inspiration, proving that with vision, dedication, and heart, it is possible to evolve from a teen screen idol into a billionaire power player while maintaining authenticity, compassion, and purpose in every chapter of life.
