Gary Magness is an American businessman, film producer, and rancher. His wealth is rooted in the family's media empire, founded by his father, Bob Magness (d. 1996), the founder of Tele-Communications Inc. (TCI), which grew to be the largest cable television operator in the U.S. His inheritance is a large stockholder stake in the restructured TCI assets.

Magness grew up in Bozeman, Montana. His career is defined by his independent ventures in film production, investment, and ranching, often pursuing creative interests outside of the core media business. He dropped out of Western State College of Colorado but leveraged his family's financial security to found his own investment and entertainment firms.

Gary Magness's primary financial role is as a large stockholder in the assets derived from TCI, managing his inheritance through the Magness Investment Group. His portfolio is highly diversified, spanning Magness Land & Cattle, Fortrust (a state-of-the-art data center), and aquaculture breeding farms.

His most visible personal venture is in entertainment: in 2007, he and his wife, Sarah Siegel-Magness, founded Smokewood Entertainment, a film production company. They have produced several notable films, including the critically acclaimed Precious (2009) and Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer (2011). His wealth is tied to the long-term appreciation of media assets and his patient, diversified investment strategy, including his personal passion for collecting vintage cars.

Gary Magness is a dedicated philanthropist, focusing his giving on poverty alleviation, education, and social services (e.g., Food Bank of the Rockies, The Fresh Air Fund). His structural social impact is tied to TCI's role in shaping the U.S. cable television industry and the jobs created by his investment firms and film production company.

His personal philanthropy supports various community and educational organizations, often reflecting his personal interests in the arts and cinema.

Gary Magness maintains the casual, artistic style of a film producer and rancher. His attire is often relaxed and high-quality, reflecting his diverse interests. His aesthetic is one of laid-back affluence, blending Hollywood with the ruggedness of Montana ranching.

Residing in Denver, Colorado, his luxury is the immense security and autonomy derived from his multi-billion dollar fortune. His life is dedicated to the stewardship of his family's media legacy, his passion for film production, and his expansive ranching and land holdings.