Famed actor Benji Gregory, best known as a child star on the hit '80s sitcom “ALF,” was found dead in his car in a Chase Bank parking lot in Peoria, Arizona, on June 13.
The news of his death was reported and confirmed by his sister, Rebecca. TMZThe famous actor was 46 years old. The Maricopa County Coroner's Office said Gregory's cause of death was unknown. His death certificate confirmed his date of death, according to TMZ. Rebecca said Gregory suffered from depression, bipolar disorder and a sleep disorder, and would often be unable to sleep for days at a time, according to TMZ.
How sad! He died in his car here in the valley.
'Alf' star Benji Gregory dies at age 46 https://t.co/MQTYfej47D— Amy Donohue (@TheFabulousOne) July 10, 2024
(From left) Max Wright, Benji Gregory, Andrea Elson, Ann Schedeen, and ALF (aka Alien Life Form) in a still from the television show “ALF” in Los Angeles, California, May 23, 1986. (Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
(From left) Max Wright, Benji Gregory, Andrea Elson, Ann Schedeen, and ALF (aka Alien Life Form) in a still from the television show “ALF” in Los Angeles, California, May 23, 1986. (Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
Sources close to the actor say he may have gone to the bank to deposit a residual check on June 12 and fallen asleep in his car. According to TMZ, they believe he died from heatstroke in the car due to the extreme Arizona heat.
According to TMZ, Gregory was found dead in his car along with his service dog Hans.
The young actor rose to fame playing Brian Tanner on ALF, appearing in 101 episodes of the show which aired from 1986 to 1990.
Gregory landed a few roles after ALF, but none matched the star power or success he'd had. He left show business in 2003 and enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He was honorably discharged from the Navy in 2005, according to TMZ.
Rebecca has requested privacy on behalf of her family as they grieve during this difficult time.
She added that the family would appreciate donations in Gregory's name to the Screen Actors Guild Fund or the ASPCA, as these are causes close to the heart of the talented star. (Related: Joan Benedict dies at age 96)
Fans have taken to social media to pay tribute to Gregory and share fond memories of his time on screen.
