Benji Gregory, the actor who brought Brian Tanner to life in the beloved 1980s sitcom ALF, has passed away at the age of 46. His sister, Rebecca Pfaffinger, shared the heartbreaking news, revealing that Gregory and his service dog were found dead in his car on June 13 in Peoria, Arizona. The cause of death was heatstroke after he fell asleep in the vehicle.
Gregory’s role as Brian Tanner, the youngest member of the Tanner family who forms a close bond with the wisecracking alien ALF, endeared him to audiences worldwide. The show, which aired from 1986 to 1990, became a cultural phenomenon, blending humor and heartwarming moments. Even decades later, ALF remains a nostalgic favorite, with references to the show appearing in everything from Super Bowl commercials to in-flight safety videos.
Born Benjamin Gregory Hertzberg on May 26, 1978, in Los Angeles, Gregory began his career as a baby model before transitioning to acting. With the guidance of his mother, Patty Hertzberg, and grandmother, Estelle Hertzberg, a seasoned talent agent, Gregory landed roles in popular TV shows like Punky Brewster, The A-Team, and Amazing Stories. He also appeared in the 1986 film Jumpin’ Jack Flash starring Whoopi Goldberg.
After leaving acting in his 20s, Gregory joined the Navy, serving as a weatherman on an aircraft carrier. He later faced challenges with mental health, including depression and bipolar disorder, which he openly discussed on social media. Gregory also shared that he had reconnected with his ALF co-star Max Wright at an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, maintaining a friendship until Wright’s death in 2019.
Gregory’s legacy as a child star and his contributions to 1980s pop culture will continue to be cherished by fans. He is survived by his parents, step-parents, and sister.
