Abrams was born to Jewish parents and raised in New York City and in Los Angeles. He is the son of television producer Gerald W. Abrams (born 1939) and executive producer Carol Ann Abrams (née Kelvin; 1942–2012). His sister is screenwriter Tracy Rosen. He attended Palisades High School.

After graduating from high school, Abrams planned on going to art school rather than a traditional college, but eventually enrolled at Sarah Lawrence College, following his father’s advice: “it’s more important that you go off and learn what to make movies about than how to make movies.”

Meet J.J. Abrams’ Children

Katie is also the mom of three children, two sons, and one daughter: Henry, 24, followed by Gracie, 20, and August, who is 16. The family resides in a mansion in the posh Pacific Palisades area.