From Childhood to Hollywood Royalty: Meet the Richest Actress in the World
The little girl in this photo grew up to become Hollywood’s richest actress — and you might be surprised who she is.
When most people think of the wealthiest stars in Hollywood, names like George Clooney, Meryl Streep, or Angelina Jolie come to mind. Big names, yes — but none of them come close to the staggering fortune of a woman who quietly built a billion-dollar empire while keeping a relatively low profile.
Unlike tabloids’ constant favorites, she rarely graces red carpets or headlines. Yet, according to reports, she is worth more than three billion dollars. How did she achieve this? The answer lies in a mix of early success, smart choices, and strategic partnership.
Born in suburban Glenview, far from Los Angeles glamour, she grew up in a typical household with a dad who worked as a builder and contractor. Nothing hinted at the fortune she would one day hold — until she was discovered through a nationwide talent search. As a teen, she landed roles in films that would become cult classics, instantly memorable and beloved by audiences.
Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images
“I was found at a search, thrown right in — that was it,” she recalled. By age 16, she was already making more money than her father, a shift that changed everything.
Through the 1980s and into the early ’90s, she appeared in some of the decade’s most iconic movies and even had small but memorable roles on TV sitcoms. She was successful, respected, and recognized — but she didn’t chase fame for fame’s sake. She valued privacy, stability, and building a life with lasting meaning.
That choice shaped everything. In 1989, she married a young financier who had no idea how famous she had already been. Early on, she was the primary breadwinner, covering their first home and vacation.
Her husband’s ambitions eventually skyrocketed. In 1990, he co-founded Apollo Global Management, a firm that would grow into a powerhouse of private equity. He later co-founded Ares Management and expanded into sports ownership, including stakes in teams like the Atlanta Hawks. Together, they transformed financial opportunities into generational wealth.
Getty Images
But the couple didn’t just focus on money. They are major philanthropists, donating millions annually to causes in arts, education, health, and Jewish organizations. She also serves on the board of the Melanoma Research Alliance, the largest nonprofit funding research into the disease.
Despite common assumptions, her wealth didn’t come solely from her husband. She was the breadwinner when they met and played a key role in building the life they enjoy today.
Shutterstock
And the woman behind all this? The richest actress in the world is… Jami Gertz.
