Benji Gregory, widely recognized for his role as Brian Tanner on the beloved sitcom “ALF,” has tragically passed away at the age of 46. According to his sister Rebecca, Benji was discovered deceased in his car at a Chase Bank parking lot in Peoria, AZ, on June 13. His death, confirmed by the Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office, is currently attributed to vehicular heatstroke, exacerbated by Arizona’s sweltering summer temperatures.
July 11 Rebecca shared that Benji battled depression, bipolar disorder, and a severe sleep disorder, which often kept him awake for extended periods. It’s believed he had gone to the bank on June 12 to deposit residual checks, where he tragically succumbed to the extreme heat. His faithful service dog, Hans, also perished alongside him.
Benji’s family is grieving deeply, appreciating the outpouring of support and suggesting donations in his memory to The Actors Equity Foundation or the ASPCA, causes close to his heart.
Benji Gregory’s career peaked during his tenure on “ALF,” spanning 101 episodes from 1986 to 1990. Though he pursued other acting opportunities intermittently, he transitioned away from entertainment in 2003 to enlist in the U.S. Navy. Following his service, Benji graduated as an aerographer’s mate before receiving an honorable medical discharge in 2005.
His passing marks the end of a life that touched many through his work and his dedication to both his country and beloved causes.