Jami Gertz

Biography

Jami Gertz is an American actress, producer, and philanthropist best known for her roles in The Lost Boys, Less Than Zero, Sixteen Candles, Crossroads, and the television series Still Standing and The Neighbors. She became particularly prominent during the 1980s as a member of the era's young Hollywood ensemble.

Early Life

Jami Beth Gertz was born on October 28, 1965, in Chicago, Illinois. She grew up in a Jewish family and attended Maine East High School in Park Ridge, Illinois. While still young, she was discovered during a nationwide talent search and subsequently began pursuing acting.

Early Acting Career

Gertz began her career with television appearances before landing film roles. She made her feature-film debut in Endless Love (1981) and subsequently appeared in the popular teen comedy Sixteen Candles (1984), directed by John Hughes.

She also appeared in the television series Square Pegs (1982–1983), which helped establish her as a young actress.

1980s Film Career

Gertz became particularly well known through a series of films during the 1980s. Her notable roles included:

• Sixteen Candles (1984)
• Solarbabies (1986)
• Less Than Zero (1987)
• The Lost Boys (1987)
• Crossroads (1986)
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In Less Than Zero (1987), directed by Marek Kanievska, Gertz played Blair, the former girlfriend of Clay Easton and Julian Wells. The film follows Clay's return to Los Angeles, where he discovers that Julian has become deeply involved in drug addiction.

Her performance in The Lost Boys was another major highlight. She played Star, a young woman drawn into the dangerous world of vampires in the cult horror film starring Jason Patric, Corey Haim, Corey Feldman, and Kiefer Sutherland.

Television Career

Gertz later became successful on television. She starred in the sitcom Still Standing from 2002 to 2006, playing Judy Miller, a mother raising a family with her husband.

She subsequently starred in the science-fiction comedy The Neighbors (2012–2014), portraying Debbie Weaver, a mother whose family moves into a neighborhood inhabited by extraterrestrials.

She has also made guest appearances on programs including ER, Ally McBeal, Seinfeld, and Modern Family.

Later Film Work

Gertz continued to appear in films while concentrating increasingly on television. Her later credits include Jersey Girl (2004) and Keeping Up with the Steins (2006).

Philanthropy and Business

Beyond acting, Gertz has become known for her philanthropic activities. Together with her husband, Tony Ressler, she has supported numerous charitable and educational causes.

The couple is also involved in professional sports ownership. Ressler is the principal owner of the Atlanta Hawks, making Gertz part of the team's ownership group.

Personal Life

Jami Gertz married businessman Tony Ressler in 1989. They have three sons. The family has been involved in various charitable initiatives, particularly those supporting education, health, and community organizations.