Growing Up Getty

The Story of America's Most Unconventional Dynasty

By: James Reginato

Narrated by: Kevin R. Free

An enthralling and comprehensive look into the contemporary state of one of the wealthiest—and most misunderstood—family dynasties in the world, perfect for fans of Succession and House of Gucci.

The Gettys are one of the wealthiest—and most misunderstood—family dynasties. Oil magnate J. Paul Getty, once the richest man in the world, is the patriarch of an extraordinary cast of sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. While some have been brought low by mental illness, drug addiction, and one of the most sensational kidnapping cases of the 20th century, many of Getty’s heirs have achieved great success. In addition to Mark Getty, a cofounder of Getty Images, and Anne G. Earhart, an award-winning environmentalist, others have made significant marks in a variety of fields, from music and viniculture to politics and LGBTQ rights.

Now, across four continents, a new generation of lively, unique, and even outrageous Gettys is emerging—and not coasting on the dynasty’s still-immense wealth. August Getty designs extravagant gowns worn by Katy Perry, Cher, and other stars; his sibling, Nats—a fellow LGBTQ rights activist who announced his gender transition following his wedding to transgender icon Gigi Gorgeous—produces a line of exclusive streetwear. Their fascinating cousins include Balthazar, a multi-hyphenate actor-director-DJ-designer; and Isabel, a singer-songwriter and MBA candidate. A far-flung yet surprisingly close-knit group, the ascendant Gettys are bringing this iconic family onto the global stage in the 21st century.

Through extensive research, including access to J. Paul Getty’s diaries and love letters, and fresh interviews with family members and friends, Growing Up Getty offers an enthralling and revealing look into the benefits and burdens of being part of today’s world of the ultra-wealthy.

interesting info

I thought this book was interesting. The Getty family is fascinating. However, some sections were a bit long winded. And other parts felt very "puff piece".

Stick around it’s worth it

This book essentially has two parts. the beginning is an overview of J Paul Getty. when that part of it ended I wasn’t sure what to expect you’ve got to stick it out it is a tale worth listening to if you set aside the fact that most of this could not have happened unless those involved had plenty of money. you will read of excess pretty much to the max. There are some very intriguing parts including to Latitha Getty and the Moroccan hideaway where rock ‘n’ rollers of all stripes seemed to congregate and which led if the author is to be believed to some seminal influences on the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. If you’re into politics well they’ve got that too as Gavin Newsom and Kamala Harris are part of the Getty inner circle The Gettys seem to have their hands in a little bit of everything from fashion to music to performing arts to even touchier subjects relating to transgender and the like. One more thing it appears that most of this wealth which has trickled down over generations and funded what can only be called extravagant excesses came from a trust fund set up by J Paul Getty in honor of his mother Sarah. Word to the wise: find out how a trust fund works and set one up if you can. They seems to pay incredible dividends.

Joe Lilley

It’s so tough to have $$

No insight more of a chronology of the family tree.
Hard to be unsuccessful when you start with millions to do a start up, acquire companies to expand your idea (Getty Images) or entertain a passion fashion line or art project. Even the old man JPG had a leg up from father George. And how are you being environmentally conscious when you flying around in private jets and mega yachts?
Not worth the read unless you enjoy watching the Kardashians