When people guess the world’s wealthiest actor, names like Tom Cruise, Oprah Winfrey, or George Clooney usually come up. Few realize that the title likely belongs to Jami Gertz. Known for cult classics like The Lost Boys, Less Than Zero, and steady television work, Gertz never commanded massive Hollywood salaries—but she made far smarter long-term moves.
After marrying financier Tony Ressler in 1989, the two built a powerful partnership that bridged Hollywood and high finance. Ressler went on to co-found Apollo Global Management and Ares Management, now overseeing hundreds of billions in assets. Gertz remained actively involved, not merely a bystander to their success.
Their wealth became highly visible in 2015 when they led the purchase of the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks, now valued at over $3 billion. With an estimated net worth between $3 and $12 billion, Gertz quietly surpasses nearly every A-list star—proving that true power in Hollywood often lies not in fame, but in ownership.
