Early Life
Gordon Peter Getty was born on December 20, 1933, in Los Angeles, California, to J. Paul Getty and Ann Rork. He attended St. Ignatius College Preparatory and the University of San Francisco. He also earned a B.A. in music from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.
Rise to Success
After J. Paul Getty's death in 1976, Gordon assumed control of the family's approximately $2 billion trust. In 1984, he orchestrated the sale of Getty Oil to Texaco for $10.1 billion. He entered the family oil business at the insistence of his father.
Key Business Strategies
Gordon's key business move was the sale of Getty Oil to Texaco, which significantly increased the family's wealth.
Philanthropy
Through the Ann and Gordon Getty Foundation, established in 1986, he has directed substantial philanthropy toward performing arts, music, education, environmental causes, and animal welfare, donating over $450 million since 2008. He has also donated to the University of San Francisco.