Robby Benson continues to work in the entertainment industry, focusing on directing, teaching, and occasional acting roles.
Robby Benson, born Robin David Segal on January 21, 1956, is an American actor, singer, and educator. He rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s with roles in films like “Ice Castles,” “Ode to Billy Joe,” and providing the voice of the Beast in Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast.” Despite his early success as a teen idol, Benson’s on-screen appearances became less frequent as he shifted his focus to other aspects of filmmaking and academia.
In the 1990s, Benson began to direct episodes for various television shows, including “Friends” and “Ellen.” His directing career expanded to include video games and teaching; he has held a position as a professor in the Film and Television program at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts and later at Indiana University in Bloomington.
Health issues have also played a role in Benson’s life and career. He underwent open-heart surgery for a congenital valve defect, which he has had to address multiple times. His experiences led him to become an advocate for heart health awareness and to author the book “I’m Not Dead… Yet!”
Despite these challenges, Benson has continued to engage with the entertainment industry. He has taken on voice acting roles, including reprising his role as the Beast for various “Beauty and the Beast” sequels and related media. His contributions to the arts, particularly in voice acting and directing, have ensured that he remains a respected figure in Hollywood.
Robby Benson’s career has been marked by a transition from a young heartthrob actor to a multifaceted artist with a passion for education and storytelling in various forms. His dedication to his craft and his ability to adapt to different roles within the industry have allowed him to maintain a lasting presence in the world of entertainment.
