Meet Suzy Amis, James Cameron’s Wife

Director James Cameron is widely regarded as one of the most successful filmmakers in Hollywood. He is best known for creating the "Terminator" movie franchise and for his critically acclaimed 1998 film "Titanic," which swept the Academy Awards. In early 2026, Cameron’s third "Avatar" film, "Avatar: Fire and Ash," surpassed $1 billion at the box office, continuing the success of the previous two films, with the original "Avatar" earning a staggering $2.92 billion and becoming the highest-grossing film in Hollywood history.

For the past 25 years, Suzy Amis has been a constant presence in Cameron’s life. She is not only his wife but also his life partner, and she has carried the name Suzy Amis Cameron since their marriage in 2000. Before becoming an environmental activist, Amis was a successful actor. She has since focused on promoting plant-based diets and reducing meat consumption, a cause that aligns with her husband’s beliefs.

Amis has established herself as a public speaker and author while raising three children with Cameron. Her passion for environmentalism has led her to become a prominent figure in the movement. Below are some key aspects of her life and career.

Suzy Amis Was a Model Before Venturing into Acting

Suzy Amis began her career as a model. Born in Oklahoma City, she started modeling as a teenager, signing with the Harrison-Gers Agency in her hometown. Her photos eventually caught the attention of Eileen Ford, the head of Ford Models, one of the most prestigious modeling agencies in America. Impressed by Amis’ potential, Ford flew her to New York City and signed her on the spot. Just four days later, Ford introduced Amis as "the face of the ’80s" on "The Merv Griffin Show."

During the next few years, Amis enjoyed a glamorous life as a top international model, splitting her time between New York and Europe. While other teenagers were focused on school, Amis was walking runways and appearing in fashion magazines. However, she soon realized that modeling wasn’t her true passion. She wanted to act and took acting classes to pursue this dream. Her first major role came in 1984 on the TV show "Miami Vice," which convinced her that she needed to aim for movies.

Her First Husband Was the Son of Two Hollywood Legends

While filming "Fandango," Amis met co-star Sam Robards, who became smitten with her. Their relationship led to marriage in 1986, and they had a son, Jasper. However, the marriage ended in 1994. During this time, Amis worked to establish herself as a serious actor by performing in theater in New York. Her performance in an off-Broadway play earned rave reviews, including praise from The New York Times.

Suzy Amis Met James Cameron on the Set of Titanic, But Their Relationship Faced Complications

By the late 1990s, Amis was gaining recognition for her acting. She was cast in "Titanic," where she played the granddaughter of Rose, portrayed by Kate Winslet. During the production in 1994, Amis and Cameron had an affair. At the time, Cameron was still involved with Linda Hamilton, who had previously worked with him on "Terminator 2: Judgment Day." After the affair ended, Cameron and Hamilton remained together until 1997, when they married. However, their marriage did not last, and Cameron reconnected with Amis in 1998.

She and James Cameron Tied the Knot a Few Years After Meeting

In 2000, after settling his divorce from Linda Hamilton, Cameron married Suzy Amis. This marriage has lasted 25 years and counting. The couple has three children: daughters Claire and Elizabeth, and son Quinn. In interviews, Amis shared the secret to their long-lasting relationship: "Listening" and having shared interests. Unlike many couples, they do not go out on date nights. Instead, they enjoy quiet moments at home, often hiding from their children.

She and James Cameron Became Vegan After Seeing the Documentary Forks Over Knives

In 2011, Amis and Cameron watched the documentary "Forks Over Knives," which highlighted the benefits of a plant-based diet. Inspired by the film, they adopted a vegan lifestyle. They believe that eating plants is not only healthier but also better for the environment. As Cameron explained, large-scale cattle ranching contributes significantly to climate change, making a shift toward plant-based diets essential.

She and Her Sister Founded a Private School Based on Environmentalism

In 2006, Amis and her sister Rebecca founded Muse School, an environmentally focused institution. The school uses recycled materials for its classrooms, relies on solar energy, and employs a falconer to manage pests naturally. In 2014, the school went entirely plant-based, offering meals made from locally grown produce.

Suzy Amis Brought Environmental Conservation to the Red Carpet at the Oscars

Amis launched the Red Carpet Green Dress (RCGD) campaign ahead of the 2009 Oscars. The initiative aimed to promote sustainable fashion by partnering designers with environmental mentors to create eco-friendly outfits for celebrities. Initially, convincing actors to participate was challenging, as many feared the designs would look unappealing. However, the campaign gained traction over time.

She’s Established Herself as a Major Environmental Activist

Amis and Cameron co-founded the Plant Power Task Force, an organization dedicated to exploring the link between meat consumption and climate change. Amis emphasized the importance of individual actions, such as changing eating habits, in combating climate change.

Suzy Amis and James Cameron Live in New Zealand

In 2012, the couple purchased a 2,500-acre property in New Zealand, with the condition that part of the land would remain a working farm. They shifted from dairy farming to plant-based agriculture, reflecting their commitment to sustainability. Cameron became a New Zealand citizen in 2025, and Amis was in the process of obtaining her own citizenship.

She Co-Founded a Unique New Zealand Farm That Puts a New Spin on Cattle Ranching

In 2015, the couple purchased Te Manaia Organics, a business focused on growing organic vegetables. They transitioned the property from dairy farming to plant-based agriculture, using grazing animals to regenerate the land. Amis described the shift as both environmentally and health-focused.

She Wrote a Book Challenging Readers to Eat One Plant-Based Meal Per Day

In 2019, Amis published "The OMD Plan," encouraging readers to replace one meat- or dairy-heavy meal per day with a plant-based alternative. She believed that even small changes could have a significant impact on the environment and personal health. By swapping just one meal a day, individuals could save thousands of gallons of water and reduce their carbon footprint.