BillionaireNet
Otto-Bernstein
Katharina Otto-Bernstein
Rank #1179
GERMANYreal-estateReal estate

Katharina Otto-Bernstein

Net Worth
$3.454B
-0.76% (24h)
Katharina Otto-Bernstein is a German-American filmmaker and producer with an estimated net worth of $3.45 billion. Her wealth stems from real estate investments. She is known for directing and producing acclaimed documentaries such as 'The Price of Everything' and 'Mapplethorpe: Look at the Pictures'. Katharina's career includes writing for German Vogue and working for Town & Country magazine. She is married to art dealer Nathan A. Bernstein and has two children. She is currently the Chair of the Columbia University School of the Arts Dean's Council.

The Full Dossier

Early Life and Education

Katharina Otto-Bernstein was born in Hamburg, Germany, and later moved to the United States. She attended St. Clare's Hall in Oxford, England, and then earned a bachelor's degree from Columbia College. She furthered her education at Columbia University, obtaining an MFA in Film from the School of the Arts.

Rise to Success

Katharina's career began in journalism, writing for German Vogue and working at Town & Country magazine. She transitioned into filmmaking, directing and producing a series of acclaimed documentaries. These include 'Beautopia,' which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, 'Absolute Wilson,' and 'Mapplethorpe: Look at the Pictures'. Her documentary 'The Price of Everything' examined the role of art in a consumer-driven society.

Key Business Strategies

Katharina's wealth is primarily from real estate investments, inherited from her father. In addition to her film work, she has been involved in the management of real estate assets. She holds a minority stake in Otto Group, which includes real estate and financial services. Moreover, she is a shareholder of ECE, the family's commercial real estate company focused on shopping centers, and shares a stake in Paramount Group.

Philanthropy

Katharina Otto-Bernstein is involved in several philanthropic endeavors. She supports various social and cultural causes, with a focus on promoting arts and culture, education, and environmental conservation. She serves on the boards of cultural and educational institutions.

Career Timeline

2025

Directed The Last Spy

Wrote, directed, and produced the documentary feature film "The Last Spy."

2023

Produced Joyland

Co-produced the film which won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival and was shortlisted for an Academy Award.

2009

Received Columbia University Alumni Medal of Achievement

Recognized for her outstanding achievements in filmmaking.

2006

Directed Absolute Wilson

Directed the documentary, which won the Art Film of the Year award at Art Basel.

1998

Directed Beautopia

Directed Beautopia, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival.

1993

Founded Film Manufacturers Inc.

Founded her independent film and television production company, which has produced many internationally acclaimed productions.

Philanthropic Impact

Animal WelfareUnknown

Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons

Provides for the animals at ARF.

EducationUnknown

Columbia University School of the Arts

Serves as Chair of the Dean's Council and founded The Katharina Otto-Bernstein Thesis Mentorship Program.

Wealth Trajectory