What does it mean when a couple makes a monumental donation to a cultural institution? For Jami Gertz and Tony Ressler, their recent appearance at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) gala on April 16, 2026, answered that question with a resounding commitment to the arts.
The couple donated an impressive $50 million to LACMA, leading to the establishment of the Ressler Family Wing. This new addition will honor their legacy as significant contributors to cultural enrichment in Los Angeles.
Gertz and Ressler’s participation in this event was noteworthy—both for their generous contribution and their rarity in public appearances together. They married on June 16, 1989, and have four children. Their partnership has been as much about family as it has been about philanthropy.
Ressler, who has served as co-chair of the LACMA board since 2015, has played a vital role in steering the museum towards greater heights. Meanwhile, Gertz is well-known for her roles in iconic films like “Sixteen Candles” and “The Lost Boys,” although she has shifted her focus from Hollywood over the years.
At this gala, LACMA raised nearly $11.5 million—setting a new record for fundraising at the event. It’s clear that their efforts are not just about money; they aim to inspire others to contribute to cultural causes.
Reflecting on their financial journey, Gertz shared an interesting perspective: “I paid for our first house. I paid for our first vacation.” She emphasized that when they met, she earned significantly more than Ressler. “Everyone thinks I married a rich guy. But I made more money, way more money than Tony when I met him,” she stated.
This candidness reveals not just their personal dynamics but also how they navigate their public personas. With Ressler’s estimated net worth exceeding $10 billion, their philanthropic choices send ripples through both art communities and beyond.
The dedication of the Ressler Family Wing solidifies their status as major cultural patrons in Los Angeles. As they continue to support LACMA, one can only wonder what further contributions they might make in the future—or how other wealthy patrons might follow suit.
As this story unfolds, one thing is certain: Gertz and Ressler are committed to leaving an indelible mark on both the museum and the community it serves.
