Former child actor Benji Gregory, best known for his role in the sitcom ALF, has tragically passed away at the age of 46. His sister confirmed the news to TMZ, revealing that Gregory was found dead in his car in a Chase bank parking lot in Peoria, Arizona on June 13. The cause of death has not been officially determined, but his family believes he may have suffered from vehicular heatstroke after falling asleep in his car on June 12, following a visit to the bank to deposit his residual checks. The temperature in the area reached a scorching 109 degrees on the day of his death.
This devastating loss was further compounded by the death of Gregory’s service dog, Hans, who was also found in the car. According to his sister, Gregory battled with various mental health issues, including depression, bipolar disorder, and a sleep disorder that often kept him awake for days at a time. These struggles likely contributed to his untimely demise.
In a heartfelt Facebook post, Gregory’s cousin, Camille Jazzy Jenkins, paid tribute to him, expressing the profound sadness and shock the family is experiencing. She described Gregory as a beloved and wonderful man, emphasizing the impact he had on their small circle. While they are still grappling with their loss, they find solace in knowing that he is reunited with his grandmothers. Jenkins asked for prayers for Gregory’s sister, brother, and parents during this difficult time.
Gregory’s rise to fame came through his portrayal of Brian Tanner in the NBC sitcom ALF. The show aired for four seasons from 1986 to 1990 and featured the Tanner family taking in ALF (Alien Life Form) after he crash-landed in their garage. Reflecting on his experience on the show, Gregory shared in a 2022 interview that he couldn’t pinpoint a specific moment when he realized ALF had become a big hit. However, he did mention the constant competition with another show called “Major Dad” in their time slot, with ALF usually coming out on top.
Sadly, ALF marked Gregory’s final acting role. Following his time in the entertainment industry, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 2003. However, he received an honorable medical discharge in 2005, ending his military career prematurely. The circumstances surrounding his discharge remain unknown.
Benji Gregory’s passing serves as a reminder of the challenges many child actors face as they navigate adulthood. The pressures of fame, combined with underlying mental health issues, can have a profound impact on their lives. This tragic loss highlights the importance of providing support and resources to individuals in the entertainment industry, ensuring their well-being beyond their time in the spotlight.
