American Eileen Getty helped create a fund that supported about 100 climate activist movements around the world. Heir to an oil dynasty, Getty is a determined personality, but he prefers to stay in the shadows.
A museum perched high in the hills overlooking Los Angeles: that’s what the name Getty evokes today. But the family of once world’s richest oil magnate Jean Paul Getty (1892-1976) left other traces in the California city.
Therefore, a square in the city center is dedicated to his granddaughter Aileen Getty. The heir is discreet and rarely appears in the media.
Eileen Getty, 65, has apparently made headlines around the world. In fact, environmental movements with sting operations like Just Stop Oil are funded by the Emergency Climate Fund it created.
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“Help others”
Who Is Aileen Getty Really? James Reginato, author of “Growing Up Getty,” an exhaustive biography devoted to this dynasty, may be best placed to try to unravel this mystery. He devotes an entire chapter to Eileen.
“He is a survivor. For a long time, when he was in his twenties, he fought against a severe addiction to drugs”, explains the writer, interviewed at 7:30 p.m. “At the same time, he tested positive for HIV. But he overcame his drug problem, regained his health, and wanted to use his means to help others.”
The Just Stop Oil group made a name for themselves by pouring soup over a Van Gogh painting in London in October 2022. [Just Stop Oil via AP – Keystone]
Since the 90s, Eileen Getty dedicated herself to the homeless and the fight against AIDS in the company of her mother-in-law Elizabeth Taylor. But she avoids publicity, which is part of her role.
“He’s a shy person,” notes James Reginato. “She’s not looking for recognition, frankly. I think she’s more effective if she’s in the background.”
For environmental reasons
Eileen Getty is now passionate about the environment. A fortune built on oil wells may seem strange to an heir. But Eileen Getty responded directly to these criticisms.
James Reginato quotes her in his book: “I’m aware of the image it presents. I want to do what’s right and what’s good. It’s not a remedy, it’s what I can do as a ‘man. I walk. There are ways to provide. In the end, we all have to do what’s right.’ “
Eileen Getty is committed to supporting the climate change cause.
TV Subject: Aviva Fried
Web adaptation: Antoine Michel
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