Early Years and Career Beginnings
Robby Benson was born on January 21, 1956, in Dallas, Texas. He grew up in New York City and began his acting career at the age of 12 by appearing in a Broadway production of “The Rothschilds.” In 1972, he landed his first film role in “Jory,” and went on to star in several other movies throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
Benson is best known for his roles in “Ice Castles,” “Ode to Billy Joe,” and “One on One.” He also provided the voice for the Beast in Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast.” In addition to his acting career, Benson is also a writer, director, and producer.
Net Worth and Career Highlights
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Robby Benson’s net worth is estimated to be $5 million. While he has not been as active in the entertainment industry in recent years, Benson’s career highlights include his roles in “Ice Castles” and “Beauty and the Beast.” He has also directed several television shows and movies, including episodes of “Friends” and “Ellen.”
In addition to his work in entertainment, Benson is also a professor at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. He teaches courses in film directing and screenwriting.
Personal Life and Family
Robby Benson has been married to his wife, Karla DeVito, since 1982. They have two children together, a son named Zephyr and a daughter named Lyric. DeVito is also an actress and singer, and has appeared in several Broadway productions.
Benson has been open about his struggles with heart disease, and underwent four open-heart surgeries between 1984 and 2012. He has also been an advocate for heart health, and has worked with organizations such as the American Heart Association to raise awareness about the condition.
Recent Projects and Future Plans
While Robby Benson has not appeared in many movies or television shows in recent years, he has continued to work on various projects. In 2019, he directed the film “The Chaperone,” which starred Elizabeth McGovern and Haley Lu Richardson.
Benson has also been working on a memoir, which is set to be released in 2021. The book, titled “I’m Not Dead…Yet!,” will focus on his experiences with heart disease and his career in entertainment.
Legacy and Impact on the Industry
Robby Benson’s contributions to the entertainment industry have been significant, both as an actor and as a director. His performances in movies such as “Ice Castles” and “Beauty and the Beast” have become iconic, and his work as a director has helped shape the television landscape.
Benson’s advocacy for heart health has also had a significant impact, as he has helped raise awareness about the condition and the importance of early detection and treatment.
