Posted on 07/11/2024 6:15:04 AM PDT by Red Badger
Famous actor Benji Gregory, best known as the child star from the hit 80s sitcom, “Alf,” was found dead in his car at a Chase Bank parking lot in Peoria, Arizona, June 13.
News of his death was just reported and confirmed by his sister, Rebeca, according to TMZ. The famous actor was 46 years old. The Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office said Gregory’s cause of death is unknown. A death certificate confirmed the date of his passing, according to TMZ. Rebeca said Gregory suffered from depression, bipolar disorder and a sleep disorder that often led to the star staying awake for several days at a time, according to TMZ.
Sources close to the actor said they believe he went to the bank to deposit residual checks June 12, and may have fallen asleep in his car. They believe he died from vehicular heatstroke due to Arizona’s extreme summer heat, according to TMZ.
Gregory was found dead alongside his service dog Hans, who also died in the vehicle, according to TMZ.
The young actor catapulted to fame in the role of Brian Tanner on “Alf.” He appeared in 101 episodes of the show, which aired from 1986-1990.
Gregory picked up a few other acting jobs after “Alf,” but never found another role that matched that level of stardom or success. He left the entertainment industry behind in 2003 and enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He received an honorable medical discharge from the Navy in 2005, according to TMZ.
Rebecca has requested privacy on behalf of her family as they process their grief at this challenging time.
She added that the family would appreciate donations in Gregory’s name to either The Actors Equity Foundation or the ASPCA, as those were causes that were near and dear to the talented star.
Fans have taken to social media to pay tribute to Gregory and share fond memories of his time on screen.
Another child actor with a shopping list of mental illnesses. Was probably preyed on by Hollywood kiddy fiddlers. Prayers for him and his dog. What a brutal way to go.
My heart aches whenever I here of this kind of thing happening. I hope he found some level of peace.
Rest In Peace, Benji.
Was the death on purpose; wondering why he would have knowingly fallen asleep in the car in an Arizona summer.
In this day and age it must be asked: Did he suddenly want to expose what happened to him as a child star?
Easy to put someone to sleep in a hot car- but who would NOT wake up in the heat, if you were just ‘tired’
Prayers for this man, what a horrible way to life and to die.
Definitely. I hope his soul finds peace. I’ve been thinking about this all day. So tragic.
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