Charlize Theron She opens up about her life and family. In a candid interview published on April 18, 2026 in New York Times MagazineThe Oscar-winning actress spoke about her upbringing and the experiences that shaped her, including her close connection with her mother and her complex relationship with her father, while noting that she is no longer “haunted” by her past.
Find out more about her parents below.
Are Charlize Theron’s parents alive today?
Charlize’s mother is still alive, but her father is not. her father, Charles TheronShe died in 1991 while her mother Gerda MaritzShe remains a close and important presence in her life.
Who is Charlize Theron’s mother?
Her mother is Gerda Maritz, a South African road builder who raised Charlize on a farm outside Johannesburg. The two remained very close, and Charlize often credited her mother with helping to shape who she is today.
What happened to Charlize Theron’s father?
Charlize’s father, Charles Theron, died in 1991 after she was fatally shot by her mother in an act considered self-defense. Charlize said her father struggled with alcoholism and became violent, and her mother acted to protect them. No charges were filed.
She said on the “Interview” program, “He shot at the steel doors to enter, explaining that he was going to kill us. His brother was with him as well.” Lulu Garcia Navarro. “We knew it was dangerous, and when he broke through the first gate, my mother ran to the safe to get her gun. She went into my bedroom. We were both holding the door with our bodies because there was no lock on it. Then he retreated and started shooting through the door.”
She continued: “He walked to the safe, and my mother opened the door while the brother was still standing there.” “The brother ran into the hallway, and I fired one bullet into the hallway that ricocheted seven times and shot him in the hand. Those are things you can’t explain. Then I followed my father, who at that time was opening the safe to get more guns out, and I shot him.”
Does Charlize Theron have siblings?
No, Charlize is an only child and does not have any siblings.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for confidential support.
