80s Cult Series - Benji Gregory, from the 'Alf' kids, died at the age of 46
US actor Benji Gregory, who became a child star in the 1980s TV series "Alf" playing Brian Tanner, has died at the age of 46. He was found dead in his car on the parking lot of a bank in Peoria, Arizona, on June 13, according to his sister who spoke to "TMZ". The "New York Times" and other US media also reported the death.
Probably died in the car
The family suspects that he fell asleep in the car and died due to the high temperatures, they wrote on Facebook as well. His assistant dog Hans was also found lifeless in the vehicle. According to his sister, Gregory struggled with bipolar disorder, depression, and insomnia.
He might have gone to the bank the evening before to make a deposit but never got out of the car. KABC and "USA Today" reported, citing the Maricopa County Medical Examiner, that the cause of death is still undetermined.
"Alf" TV series was a hit in Germany
Gregory played Brian, the son of the Tanner family, in the sitcom where they accidentally take in the alien Alf with his spaceship in their garage. Alf, an alien creature from Melmac, causes chaos in the Tanners' lives and desires their cat Lucky, as cats are his favorite food. His catchphrase was full of sassy lines. The phrase "Zero Problemo!" became legendary in German.
The series aired on NBC from 1986 to 1990 in 102 episodes and was also a hit in Germany on TV. Gregory was eight years old when he landed the role of Brian.
Despite appearing in other series like "The A-Team", "Punky Brewster", or "Amazing Stories" later on, he did not achieve the same level of success. According to the industry portal imdb.com, he was also employed by the US Navy weather service at one point.
YouTube video of the series [
- Fans of the "Alf" television series, which was a hit not only in the United States of America but also in Germany, were saddened to learn of Benji Gregory's death.
- The "New York Times" and various other US-media outlets, including TMZ, reported on the death of the actor who famously played Brian Tanner in the sitcom.
- Reports suggest that Benji Gregory may have died in his vehicle, which was found parked in a lot in Peoria, Arizona, on June 13.
- His sister, speaking to TMZ, stated that Gregory had struggled with mental health issues such as bipolar disorder, depression, and insomnia.
- The Maricopa County Medical Examiner's office has yet to determine the exact cause of Gregory's death, but KABC and "USA Today" have reported that his death may have been due to natural causes, such as an accidental fall asleep in the vehicle on a hot day.
- Benji Gregory's role as Brian Tanner in the "Alf" television series was his most famous, and the series had a significant following in Europe, including Germany.
- The "Alf" TV series, which aired on NBC from 1986 to 1990, was a popular show in the United States and abroad, and Gregory's portrayal of Brian Tanner was a beloved character on the show.
- In addition to his work in television, Benjamin Gregory also appeared in other shows, including "The A-Team," "Punky Brewster," and "Amazing Stories."
- Despite his successful career in acting, Gregory also had a career in the US Navy weather service, demonstrating his versatility and dedication to his various pursuits.
