Paul Thomas Anderson Family Tree: The Story Behind PTA

Paul Thomas "PTA" Anderson, born 26 June 1970 in Studio City, Los Angeles, USA, is the American director-writer of Hard Eight (1996), Boogie Nights (1997), Magnolia (1999), Punch-Drunk Love (2002), There Will Be Blood (2007), The Master (2012), Inherent Vice (2014), Phantom Thread (2017), Licorice Pizza (2021), One Battle After Another (2025).

The Family's Roots: A Los Angeles Family

Father was a horror-movie TV host.

His Parents

Father: Ernie Anderson (1923–1997) — legendary Cleveland horror-movie TV host "Ghoulardi" (WJW-TV 1963-66); ABC voice-over talent 1974-1997.

Mother: Edwina Anderson — homemaker.

His Siblings

Paul is the youngest of 9 children.

His Partner: Maya Rudolph

Maya Khabira Rudolph, born 27 July 1972 — American comedian-actress (SNL, Bridesmaids); daughter of singer Minnie Riperton. Together with Paul since 2001.

Their Children

Pearl Bailey Anderson, born October 2005 — daughter.

Lucille Anderson, born November 2009 — daughter.

Jack Anderson, born July 2011 — son.

Minnie Ida Anderson, born August 2013 — daughter.

The Anderson Family Tree at a Glance

Father: Ernie Anderson (1923–1997) — TV host "Ghoulardi".

Mother: Edwina Anderson.

Siblings: PTA was youngest of 9.

Partner: Maya Rudolph (b. 27 July 1972).

Children: Pearl (b. October 2005); Lucille (b. November 2009); Jack (b. July 2011); Minnie Ida (b. August 2013).

Paul Thomas Anderson:

  • Born 26 June 1970, Studio City
  • Left Emerson College Boston after 2 days
  • Studied at Sundance Institute
  • Hard Eight (1996) — debut
  • 11 films as of 2025; 11 Academy Award nominations
  • His production company: Ghoulardi Film Company (named after father's TV persona)

What the Anderson Family Story Teaches Us

A horror-TV-host father lost in 1997. 8 elder siblings. A partner-comedian of 25 years. Four children. A career that redefined American independent cinema.

For every family — large or small, famous or otherwise — the PTA story carries the same lesson. Some careers name their production company after a father's TV horror persona.

👉 Start building your family legacy today with Family Root App

📜 Disclaimer The family tree and biographical information provided in this article are based on publicly available sources and records. While we strive for accuracy, we do not guarantee the completeness or authenticity of all data. This content is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not aim to infringe on any individual's privacy or personal rights. If you believe any information is incorrect or wish to request edits or removal, please contact us at Info@familyrootapp.com.