Kym Karath is a former American child actress who became famous for playing Gretl von Trapp, the youngest daughter in the classic musical The Sound of Music (1965). She entered the acting world at just three years old and worked alongside several well-known Hollywood stars before stepping away from the entertainment industry to focus on her education and family.
Although her acting career was shorter than that of many performers, Karath remains remembered for her role in one of the most popular musical films of all time. In the years that followed, she devoted much of her time to raising her son and supporting people with disabilities.
Here is a closer look at her age, height, acting career, family background, marriage and life beyond Hollywood.
Kym Karath at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full name | Anthea Kimberly Karath |
| Known as | Kym Karath |
| Date of birth | 4 August 1958 |
| Age | 68 as of October 2026 |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Former actress |
| Height | 5 feet 5 inches (1.65 metres), according to IMDb |
| Most famous role | Gretl von Trapp in The Sound of Music |
| Education | University of Southern California |
| Children | One son, Eric |
| Net worth | Not reliably verified |
Information about Karath’s life and career comes from IMDb and other sources covering her background. Her exact net worth remains unknown because reliable public financial records are not available.
How Old Is Kym Karath?
Kym Karath was born on 4 August 1958 in Los Angeles, California. As of October 2026, she is 68 years old. Her journey in the entertainment world began during early childhood, allowing her to appear in films while she was still very young.
Starting her career so early gave Karath the chance to work with established Hollywood actors before she became widely known for The Sound of Music.
However, childhood fame did not determine the rest of her life. As she grew older, Karath chose to continue her higher education and develop interests outside the film and television industry.
Kym Karath’s Height and Personal Background
According to IMDb, Karath is 5 feet 5 inches tall, which is approximately 1.65 metres. Most viewers remember her from her childhood role as Gretl, the youngest member of the von Trapp family in the famous musical.
Her family background also provides useful details about her biography. IMDb records that her parents were Greek and that the family originally used the surname Karathanasis. Her father later shortened the name to Karath. Her older sister, Frances, also explored acting and auditioned for a part in The Sound of Music.
These family details help explain Karath’s early connection to the entertainment world. Despite her childhood fame, she has generally kept her private life away from public attention.
The Role That Made Kym Karath Famous
Karath gained lasting recognition for her performance in The Sound of Music, which premiered in 1965. She played Gretl von Trapp, the youngest of the seven children, alongside Julie Andrews as Maria and Christopher Plummer as Captain von Trapp.
She was only five years old when filming began in 1964. Her age suited the character, and she became part of the cast responsible for the film’s memorable family moments and musical scenes.
One moment during production was particularly frightening. While filming the famous boat scene, Karath struggled in the water because she could not swim. A crew member had to rescue her. She later discussed the incident and its effect on her relationship with water.
The film’s continued popularity has kept Karath in the public eye decades after its release. In 2025, she reunited with fellow surviving child cast members to mark the film’s 60th anniversary and reflect on their long-lasting friendships.
Kym Karath’s Other Films and Television Appearances
Before appearing in The Sound of Music, Karath had roles in Spencer’s Mountain (1963), The Thrill of It All (1963) and Good Neighbor Sam (1964). She later appeared in television shows such as Lost in Space, Family Affair, The Brady Bunch and The Waltons.
Her acting work continued into the early 1980s. One of her later screen appearances was in Midnight Offerings. Over time, she moved away from regular acting and gave more attention to her education, personal interests and family life.
Although she did not maintain a long-term career in Hollywood, her role in The Sound of Music remains her most recognised contribution to film.
Kym Karath’s Education and Life Away from Hollywood
Karath graduated from the University of Southern California with a degree in humanities. After finishing her studies, she moved to Paris, where she studied art history and worked as a model.
Her life gradually moved in a different direction from her early years as a child actress. Instead of continuing to seek regular screen roles, she focused on family responsibilities and other personal interests.
Karath has also been associated with efforts to support people with disabilities. Reports have connected her with the Aurelia Foundation, an organisation that helps young adults with disabilities as they transition into adulthood.
This work represents an important part of her life beyond acting. It also shows how her interests developed after she stepped away from the entertainment industry.
Kym Karath’s Husband and Family Life
Karath married Philippe L’Equibec in 1985, and the couple welcomed their son, Eric, in 1991. Their marriage eventually ended in divorce. IMDb lists Jeff Apple as her husband from May 2016, although limited information is available about their private relationship.
Her son has special needs, and Karath has spoken about the importance of caring for him. Raising Eric became a major part of her life and helped shape her involvement in disability advocacy.
Karath has largely kept her family life private, choosing to focus on her responsibilities and interests rather than seeking attention from the media.
What Is Kym Karath’s Net Worth?
Kym Karath’s exact net worth has not been confirmed by reliable public sources. Some celebrity websites suggest that she has wealth worth millions, but these figures are not backed by verified financial records.
Her earnings from acting, modelling and other professional activities have not been disclosed in sufficient detail to calculate her total wealth accurately. For this reason, online estimates should be treated as speculation rather than confirmed financial information.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kym Karath
How old is Kym Karath?
Kym Karath was born on 4 August 1958. She is 68 years old as of October 2026.
What is Kym Karath best known for?
She is best known for playing Gretl von Trapp, the youngest daughter in the 1965 musical film The Sound of Music.
How tall is Kym Karath?
IMDb lists her height as 5 feet 5 inches, or approximately 1.65 metres.
Does Kym Karath have children?
Yes, she has one son named Eric L’Equibec, who was born in 1991.
What does Kym Karath do now?
Karath is a former actress who is known for her work in The Sound of Music and her involvement in supporting people with disabilities.
Final Thoughts on Kym Karath’s Life
Kym Karath remains closely connected to The Sound of Music, a classic that continues to attract audiences across generations. Her portrayal of Gretl made her part of film history, but her life has also included higher education, family responsibilities and advocacy work.
Although she eventually left regular acting behind, her connection with the film and its cast has continued over the years. Her story highlights the life of a former child actress who chose a different path beyond Hollywood and devoted her time to her family and other meaningful interests.
