Last updated on: December 12, 2024
Vanessa Vadim is a film activist. She is known primarily for being the daughter of actress Jane Fonda and French filmmaker Roger Vadim. Vanessa made a name in films and became strong environmental cause activist. Here we will try to find out early life, career, and personal journey about her.
Quick Facts About Vanessa Vadim
| Full Name | Vanessa Vadim |
| Birthdate | September 28, 1968 |
| Occupation | Filmmaker, Environmental Activist, Columnist |
| Husband/Wife | Paul Van Waggoner (married June 12, 2010) |
| Education | Graduated from Brown University in 1989 |
| Age
Height |
56 years and 3 months old
1.78 m |
| Parents | Jane Fonda (Mother), Roger Vadim (Father) |
| Siblings | brother: Troy Garity, Sister: Mary Luana Williams |
| Children | Son: Malcolm Vadim (born May 28, 1999), Daughter: Viva Arnett (born Nov 23, 2002) |
| Net Worth | Estimated around $10 million (as of 2024) |
Early Life and Family
Vanessa was born on September 28, 1968, in Boulogne-Billancourt, France. She is the daughter of Jane Fonda and Roger Vadim. Her parents’ marriage ended when Vanessa was just a toddler. After the separation, Vanessa lived with her mother in California but spent holidays with her father in France. Growing up, Vanessa was surrounded by creative people and had a unique childhood.
Her mother, Jane Fonda, is a known actress and an activist. In movies, she is known because of her prominent roles. The woman is recognized for her passionate stand on the issues she fights for. So, growing up, Vanessa was under the influence of her mother as she stood by what she believes in.
She was the daughter of French film director Roger Vadim and Katina Paliashvili. Though she spent more time with her mother, Vanessa was close to her father. Her early life helped shape her view on life, creativity, and activism.
Education and Early Interests
Vanessa attended Brown University, a prestigious college in Rhode Island. She graduated in 1989 with honors. During her university days, she participated in many social causes. Vanessa participated in pro-choice marches and even helped build a school in Nicaragua. She always felt strongly about helping others and making a difference in the world.
Her education and early experiences set the stage for the career and life Vanessa would lead. She was not only interested in academics but also in using her voice and skills to create positive change in society.
Filmmaking Career
It goes without saying that Vanessa Vadim has left some marks in film. Her big break as a director was this short documentary of 2002, The Quilts of Gee’s Bend. The subject of the documentary was a number of African American women in Alabama who made just beautiful quilts. The filmmakers highlighted their creativeness and gave great value to the quilts they would make.
Vanessa also produced the documentary Jane Fonda in Five Acts (2018). The film explored her mother’s life and career. It gave an in-depth view of the events that defined Jane’s life and activism. Making this film was significant for Vanessa as it gave her a moment to reflect on how her mother changed the world.
Environmental Activism
Besides her work in film, Vanessa Vadim is an environmental activist. She believes in sustainability and the planet. Vanessa writes a syndicated column for the Mother Nature Network. She talks about green living and how people can reduce their footprint on the earth. She has been involved in many sustainability initiatives over the years.
Vanessa founded her company, V2 Synergy, focused on environmental consulting and sustainable gardening. Her goal is to help people learn how to live in harmony with nature. In everything she does and fights for, Vanessa remains a difference maker against climate change.
READ ALSO: Jane Fonda Net worth, Age, Boyfriend, Family, Facts & More
Personal Life
She is married to Paul Van Waggoner. The couple married on June 12, 2010. They have two children. In addition to her two children, she also has a daughter from a previous relationship with Matt Arnett. Her son, Malcolm Vadim, was born on May 28, 1999, while her daughter, Viva Arnett, was born on November 23, 2002.
Family matters most to Vanessa. She equilibrates between her work, politics, and upbringing of the children as well as private life. She ensures that she takes sufficient time for her family and keeps her mind focused on what should be at the forefront.
Activism with Her Mother
Vanessa is close to her mother, Jane Fonda. Both of them are passionate about fighting for the environment. One of the ways they show their support is by participating in climate protests together. In 2019, they took part in the “Fire Drill Fridays” protests, which raised awareness about the urgent need for climate action.
Vanessa has said she learned a lot from her mom, especially the aspect of standing up for a cause they feel in. Apparently, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, for both women make a commitment towards making the world a better place.
Source: celebs.infoseemedia.com
