Former ALF Star Benji Gregory Dies at 46
Former child star Benji Gregory, best known for his role as Brian Tanner on the beloved 80s sitcom “ALF,” has tragically passed away at the age of 46. The Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s office confirmed that Gregory died on June 13 in Peoria, Arizona. The cause of death is still pending.
Gregory’s sister, Rebecca, revealed to TMZ that her brother was found dead in his car at a Chase Bank parking lot in Peoria, a suburb of Phoenix. His service dog, Hans, was also found dead at the scene. Rebecca mentioned that Gregory suffered from depression, bipolar disorder, and a sleep disorder that often kept him awake for days. His Instagram bio also indicated that he struggled with “bipolar” and “major depression disorder.”
Rebecca suggested that donations in her brother’s name be made to The Actors Equity Foundation and the ASPCA, organizations Gregory supported. Gregory was not very active on social media, with his last post dating back to April. In that post, he humorously complained about his dog Hans’ “tagging” phase, alongside a photo of water splattered on a sidewalk in Peoria.
Fans of Gregory took to the comments section of his last Instagram post to pay their respects. “R.I.P. Ben. R.I.P. Hans. My sincere condolences to your loved ones,” one user wrote, while another added, “RIP. We will miss you and Hans.”
Gregory grew up in Los Angeles in a family of actors, including his brother, sister, and uncle. He rose to fame as the middle brother Brian Tanner on “ALF,” which aired from 1986 to 1990. The show also starred Max Wright, Anne Schedeen, and Andrea Elson. Gregory appeared in 101 episodes of the classic sitcom. Max Wright, who played the father on the show, passed away in 2019 at the age of 75 after battling lymphoma.
After “ALF,” Gregory made guest appearances on several TV shows, including “Fantastic Max,” “Murphy Brown,” “Fantasy Island,” “The A-Team,” “T.J. Hooker,” “The Twilight Zone,” and “Punky Brewster.” He also appeared in two films: “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” in 1986 and “Once Upon a Forest” in 1993.
In 2003, Gregory left the entertainment industry and enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He graduated from school to become an aerographer’s mate and was assigned to the USS Carl Vinson. He received an honorable medical discharge in 2005.
Gregory’s death has left his family and fans in mourning. Rebecca shared that the family is grieving a great loss and appreciates everyone’s thoughts and kind words. She reiterated that donations in Gregory’s name to The Actors Equity Foundation or the ASPCA would be appreciated.
Gregory’s role as Brian Tanner on “ALF” made him a household name. The show, which aired for four seasons from 1986 to 1990, revolved around the Tanner family, a suburban middle-class family in California’s San Fernando Valley, who take in ALF, an alien from the planet Melmac. The family tries to hide ALF from nosy neighbors and government agencies. The show was known for its humor and the antics of ALF, performed by director Paul Fusco.
In addition to his role on “ALF,” Gregory’s TV appearances included “Fantastic Max,” “The A-Team,” “T.J. Hooker,” “The Twilight Zone,” and “Punky Brewster,” where he played an orphan named Dash. He also appeared in the feature film “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” in 1986.
Gregory’s departure from acting in 2003 marked a significant shift in his life. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served as an aerographer’s mate on the USS Carl Vinson. He received an honorable medical discharge in 2005. Gregory married his wife Sarah in 2006, although it is not known if they were still together at the time of his death.
The news of Gregory’s death has been met with an outpouring of grief from fans and colleagues. Many have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of the actor. His sister Rebecca has been vocal about her brother’s struggles with mental health and has encouraged donations to organizations that Gregory supported.
Gregory’s death is a tragic reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and support. His contributions to the entertainment industry and his service in the Navy will be remembered by many. As fans and loved ones mourn his loss, they also celebrate the impact he had on their lives through his work and advocacy.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
Source: NBC, KABC, Daily Mail
