Kym Karath is an American former child actress best known for playing Gretl von Trapp, the youngest daughter in the classic musical film The Sound of Music (1965). Although she was only a young child when she appeared in the film, her performance became part of a story that continues to entertain audiences decades later.
Born in Los Angeles, California, Karath began acting at just three years old. Before gaining worldwide recognition through The Sound of Music, she appeared in films alongside established Hollywood performers. As she grew older, however, her priorities changed, and she eventually stepped away from regular acting to focus on her education and family.
Her life beyond Hollywood has also attracted interest, particularly her experience as a mother and her involvement in supporting people with disabilities. Here is a closer look at Kym Karath’s age, height, acting career, net worth and life today.
Kym Karath: Quick Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full name | Anthea Kimberly Karath |
| Known as | Kym Karath |
| Date of birth | 4 August 1958 |
| Age | 68 years old as of October 2026 |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Former actress |
| Height | Approximately 5 feet 5 inches (1.65 metres) |
| Famous role | Gretl von Trapp in The Sound of Music |
| Education | University of Southern California |
| Children | One son |
| Net worth | Not publicly verified |
How Old Is Kym Karath?
Kym Karath was born on 4 August 1958, making her 68 years old as of October 2026. She grew up in Los Angeles and entered the entertainment industry at an age when most children are only beginning school.
Her early start gave her the opportunity to work with well-known actors and gain experience on professional film sets. However, childhood fame did not define the rest of her life. As she became older, she pursued higher education and explored interests outside acting.
What Is Kym Karath’s Height?
Kym Karath is listed as approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall, or 1.65 metres. She is most widely recognised for her appearance as Gretl in The Sound of Music, where her youthful performance helped bring the youngest von Trapp child to life.
Although audiences often remember her from her childhood role, Karath grew up and pursued a range of interests away from the screen.
Kym Karath’s Acting Career
Early Films and Television Appearances
Karath began acting at three, appearing in films such as Spencer’s Mountain (1963), The Thrill of It All (1963) and Good Neighbor Sam (1964). These early roles gave her experience working alongside established performers, including Henry Fonda, Doris Day and Jack Lemmon.
Her career continued into television, where she appeared in popular programmes such as Lost in Space, Family Affair, The Brady Bunch and The Waltons. These appearances helped establish her as a familiar face to audiences during the 1960s and 1970s.
Her Most Famous Role in The Sound of Music
Karath’s best-known role came in 1965, when she played Gretl von Trapp in The Sound of Music. Starring Julie Andrews as Maria and Christopher Plummer as Captain von Trapp, the musical follows a governess who becomes part of a family of seven children.
As the youngest daughter, Gretl appeared in several memorable family scenes. Karath was around five years old when filming began, and her age helped make the character’s innocence and charm convincing.
The film became a lasting favourite, introducing new generations to its music and story. Karath’s performance remains closely associated with the production, even though she eventually moved away from acting.
Filming was not always straightforward. During the famous boat scene, Karath fell into the water and struggled because she could not swim. A crew member rescued her, making the incident one of the more frightening experiences associated with her time on set.
Education and Life Beyond Hollywood
After stepping back from acting, Karath pursued her education at the University of Southern California, where she graduated with a degree in humanities.
She later moved to Paris, where she studied art history and worked as a model. These experiences gave her opportunities to explore interests beyond the entertainment industry.
Her life eventually centred more on family and personal commitments. Although she remained connected to The Sound of Music through reunions and anniversary celebrations, she did not continue acting at the same pace as during childhood.
What Is Kym Karath’s Net Worth?
Kym Karath’s exact net worth has not been publicly confirmed. Some celebrity websites publish estimates running into millions of dollars, but these figures are not supported by verified financial disclosures.
Her early acting roles, later television appearances and modelling work may have contributed to her earnings. However, there is insufficient public information about her salaries, investments, assets or other income sources to calculate her wealth accurately.
It is therefore best to treat online net worth figures as estimates rather than established facts.
Kym Karath’s Family and Personal Life
Karath married Philippe L’Equibec in 1985, and they welcomed a son, Eric, in 1991. Their marriage later ended in divorce.
Her experience as a mother became an important part of her life. Her son has special needs, and Karath has been associated with efforts to support people with disabilities, including work connected with the Aurelia Foundation.
This aspect of her life has drawn attention to issues affecting families and young adults with disabilities. It also highlights a side of Karath’s story that goes beyond her childhood fame.
She has generally kept her personal affairs private, so detailed information about her current relationship status and day-to-day life is limited.
Where Is Kym Karath Today?
Kym Karath is best known today for her role in The Sound of Music and her life beyond acting. She has remained connected to the film’s legacy through cast reunions, interviews and anniversary events.
In 2025, the film marked its 60th anniversary, renewing interest in the actors who helped bring its memorable characters to the screen. For Karath, the enduring affection for Gretl has kept her connected to audiences long after her acting career slowed.
Although she is no longer a regular presence in film and television, her story continues to interest fans who want to know what happened to the child actors from the beloved musical.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How old is Kym Karath?
She is 68 years old as of October 2026. She was born on 4 August 1958.
2. How tall is Kym Karath?
She is listed as approximately 5 feet 5 inches (1.65 metres) tall.
3. What is Kym Karath famous for?
She is best known for playing Gretl von Trapp in the 1965 musical film The Sound of Music.
4. What is Kym Karath’s net worth?
Her exact net worth is unknown. Online estimates have not been verified through reliable financial disclosures.
5. Does Kym Karath have children?
Yes. She has one son, Eric, born in 1991.
6. What is Kym Karath doing today?
She largely lives outside the regular entertainment spotlight and remains known for her connection to The Sound of Music and her interests beyond acting.
Final Thoughts
Kym Karath’s journey began in Hollywood when she was just three years old. Her portrayal of Gretl von Trapp in The Sound of Music remains her defining role, but her life has also included higher education, modelling, family responsibilities and an interest in supporting people with disabilities.
Now 68, she remains part of the film’s enduring history. While details about her finances and current private life are limited, her career and experiences offer a fuller picture of the woman behind one of cinema’s most recognisable child characters.
