By Alexandra Harper 
Kym Karath is an American former actress best known for playing Gretl von Trapp, the youngest daughter in the classic musical film The Sound of Music. She began acting as a young child and became part of one of the most recognised family films in cinema history.
Although her role in the 1965 film remains her best-known performance, Kym’s life has included education, modelling, family life and charitable work. After stepping away from acting for several years, she also returned to public life through projects connected with entertainment and disability awareness.
This article explores Kym Karath’s age, height, early life, acting career, estimated net worth and relationships.
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 |
| Husband | Jeff Apple |
| Children | One son |
| Net worth | Not officially confirmed |
How Old Is Kym Karath?
Kym Karath was born on 4 August 1958 in Los Angeles, California. She is 68 years old as of October 2026.
Her acting career began when she was very young. Like many child performers, she entered the entertainment industry before reaching her teenage years and appeared alongside well-known Hollywood actors.
Her early experiences helped prepare her for a role that would become closely associated with her name. Even decades after its release, audiences continue to recognise her as the youngest von Trapp child from The Sound of Music.
Kym Karath’s Height and Appearance
Kym Karath is reported to be approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall, or 1.65 metres. However, her height is only a small detail in a career best remembered for her work as a child actress.
Her appearance as Gretl helped make the youngest von Trapp daughter a memorable part of the film. The character’s innocence and place within the large family contributed to the warmth of the story.
Unlike some former child stars, Kym did not spend her entire adult life pursuing acting. She later explored other interests, including art history and modelling, while focusing on her family.
Kym Karath’s Early Life and Education
Kym grew up in the United States and began working in films during the early 1960s. Her first screen appearances included The Thrill of It All (1963) and Good Neighbor Sam (1964).
As she grew older, she chose to give greater attention to her education. She attended the University of Southern California, where she earned a degree in humanities.
After graduating, Kym moved to Paris, France, to study art history and work as a model. This period allowed her to explore interests beyond the film industry and develop a life outside the spotlight.
Kym Karath’s Acting Career
Kym’s most famous role came in 1965, when she played Gretl von Trapp in The Sound of Music. The musical follows Maria, a young woman who becomes a governess to the seven von Trapp children before falling in love with their father, Captain von Trapp.
Kym was around five years old during filming. Her performance as the youngest child helped establish her place in the film’s much-loved ensemble cast.
Following the film’s success, she appeared in several television programmes, including My Three Sons, Family Affair, Lost in Space and The Brady Bunch. These roles gave her opportunities to work across different types of television entertainment.
She later stepped away from acting to focus on other areas of her life. Although she returned to the screen for occasional projects, she did not pursue a long-term career in Hollywood as an adult.
What Is Kym Karath’s Net Worth?
Kym Karath’s exact net worth has not been officially confirmed. Some websites publish estimated figures, but these should be treated cautiously because there is no reliable public financial information establishing her wealth.
Her professional activities have included acting and modelling. However, the amount she earned from these activities, including her work in The Sound of Music, is not publicly established.
It would therefore be misleading to state a specific net worth as fact. Her lasting recognition comes mainly from her acting career and continued connection with the film’s cast and fans.
Who Is Kym Karath’s Husband?
Kym Karath married Philippe L’Equibec in 1985, and they later divorced in 2005. The couple had one son, Eric L’Equibec, who was born in 1991.
Kym has spoken publicly about her son’s needs and has been involved in efforts to support people with disabilities. Her experiences as a parent have become an important part of her life beyond acting.
In 2016, she married Jeff Apple. She generally keeps her personal life away from the public eye, so detailed information about her current relationship is limited.
Kym Karath’s Life Beyond Acting
Kym’s life after The Sound of Music has included family responsibilities and charitable work. She has been associated with the Aurelia Foundation, an organisation focused on helping people with special needs as they move towards adulthood.
She has also maintained a connection with her former cast members. The actors who played the von Trapp children have continued to reunite over the years, sharing memories of filming and celebrating the film’s lasting popularity.
Their friendship reflects the enduring place The Sound of Music holds in the lives of its cast and the audiences who have watched it across generations.
Final Thoughts
Kym Karath became famous as Gretl von Trapp in The Sound of Music, a role that has remained popular for more than six decades. Her early acting career also included appearances in films and television programmes before she turned her attention to education, modelling and family life.
Although she stepped away from regular acting, Kym remains connected to the film that introduced her to audiences around the world. Her later work supporting people with disabilities adds another important part to her story beyond her childhood success.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How old is Kym Karath?
Kym Karath was born on 4 August 1958 and is 68 years old as of October 2026.
2. How tall is Kym Karath?
She is reported to be approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall, or 1.65 metres.
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. Who is Kym Karath’s husband?
Kym married Jeff Apple in 2016. She was previously married to Philippe L’Equibec.
5. Does Kym Karath have children?
Yes, she has one son, Eric L’Equibec, born in 1991.