Benji Gregory: A Beloved Child Star
The entertainment world mourns the loss of Benji Gregory, best known for his role as Brian Tanner in the 1980s sitcom ALF. Gregory, whose full name was Benjamin Gregory Hertzberg, passed away at the age of 46. His lifeless body was discovered on June 13, 2024, in a parking lot in Peoria, Arizona, alongside his dog, Hans. The cause of death is still under investigation, but heat stroke is suspected. Gregory's sister, Rebecca, revealed that he suffered from depression, bipolar disorder, and a sleep disorder.
Career Highlights and Legacy
Gregory's acting career began at a young age. Born on May 26, 1978, in Los Angeles, he made his debut in the series Fantasy Island. He appeared in popular shows such as The A-Team, Amazing Stories, and Punky Brewster before landing his iconic role in ALF. The sitcom, which aired on NBC from 1986 to 1990, became a cultural phenomenon, loved by audiences around the world. Gregory's portrayal of Brian Tanner, the boy who befriends an alien from the planet Melmac, left an indelible mark on fans.
Life After Acting
After ALF, Gregory continued to make guest appearances in shows like Murphy Brown and lent his voice to the animated film Badger and Friends. However, he eventually left show business in the 1990s. Gregory pursued higher education at the Academy of Art College in San Francisco and later enlisted in the US Navy in 2003. He served on the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson but was discharged in 2005 due to medical reasons. Gregory married his wife, Sarah, in 2006 and led a relatively private life thereafter.
Remembering Benji Gregory
Benji Gregory's death is a tragic loss to the entertainment community and his fans. His role in ALF, a series that brought joy to many, will always be remembered. The show, created by Paul Fusco and Tom Patchett, portrayed aliens in a humorous and endearing light, much like Steven Spielberg's ET the Extraterrestrial. Gregory's character, Brian, was a loyal friend to ALF, defending him from the US Army and nosy neighbors. His performance helped make the show a beloved family favorite.
