Jami Gertz, renowned for her roles in classic films such as *Twister* and *Sixteen Candles*, has embraced a multifaceted life as an actress, businesswoman, and mother. However, since 2015, she has also made headlines as a co-owner of the Atlanta Hawks NBA team alongside her husband, Tony Ressler.
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The couple have enjoyed a 37-year marriage since tying the knot in 1989 and have raised three sons: Oliver, Nick, and Theo. Initially based in Los Angeles, Gertz and Ressler relocated to Atlanta after acquiring the basketball franchise for an estimated $850 million, a move that reflects their long-standing passion for the sport.
Gertz gained prominence in the 1980s and 1990s, landing key roles in films such as *The Lost Boys*, *Less than Zero*, and *Crossroads*. She transitioned successfully to television, with popular appearances in series like *Still Standing* and *The Neighbors*. During her successful acting career, she met Ressler through a mutual friend. Their romance blossomed following an introduction at a dinner party, leading to an engagement characterised by mutual admiration rather than financial motives.

When Gertz and Ressler married, the latter was embarking on his own journey in finance, having co-founded the private equity firm Apollo Global Management in 1990. His subsequent establishment of Ares Management in 1997 dramatically increased their family’s financial portfolio, propelling him into the billionaire bracket with a current estimated net worth of £11 billion. Despite initial perceptions, Gertz has emphasized that she was already financially successful when they met, having made substantial earnings from acting.
The couple found themselves at a significant crossroads in 2014 when Ressler’s burgeoning career in finance and Gertz’s acting aspirations began to shift focus. Their love for basketball led them to explore ownership opportunities in the NBA, initially aspiring to purchase the Los Angeles Clippers. Although they were outbid, they seized the chance to acquire the Hawks when the opportunity arose, solidifying their legacy in the sports arena.
During their time as owners, Gertz and Ressler have completed substantial investments in the team and its facilities, including the development of a state-of-the-art training centre and a significant overhaul of the home arena, now known as State Farm Arena. Their approach has not only emphasised building a competitive team but also enhancing the overall experience for fans and fostering community involvement.
Reflecting on their experiences, Gertz has acknowledged the complexities of balancing family life, her husband’s business commitments, and their joint venture as team owners. Moving to Atlanta required her to take a step back from acting, allowing her to fully engage in her new role supporting the Hawks. She frequently represents the organisation, building relationships with fans and stakeholders, a role her husband acknowledges as one where she excels.
Their three sons have also become involved with the Hawks. Oliver, the eldest, graduated from Georgetown University and has explored various avenues in finance and entrepreneurship before joining the family business. Nick, following a similar path, works in strategic planning for the Hawks after studying at Georgetown. Meanwhile, Theo has also taken steps in finance and serves alongside his brothers on the Hawks’ board.
This unique combination of talent in both business and sports highlights a family deeply invested in the growth and success of the Atlanta Hawks. As they move forward, the Gertz and Ressler family exemplifies the blend of passion, creativity, and entrepreneurship, demonstrating how personal and professional aspirations can intertwine to create a dynamic legacy.
Their commitment to both basketball and their family further underscores the importance of balancing life’s various roles, offering a modern narrative of ambition, love, and community involvement amidst the bustling world of sports.
