Barbi Benton Net Worth

Barbi Benton’s Net Worth: A Look at the Life and Career of the Multi-Talented Star

Barbi Benton, a name synonymous with glamour, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit, has captivated audiences for decades. With a diverse career spanning modeling, acting, singing, and television, Benton has amassed a considerable fortune, estimated at $20 million. This article delves into the life and career of Barbi Benton, exploring her journey from a young woman in New York City to a celebrated personality in the entertainment industry.

Early Life and Education

Born Barbara Lynn Klein on January 28, 1950, in New York City, Barbi Benton’s early life was marked by a move to Sacramento, California, at the age of two. Her parents, a Jewish investment counselor mother and a gynecologist father, provided a nurturing environment that encouraged her exploration of various interests. She engaged in piano lessons and even took up scuba diving during her formative years. Benton attended Rio Americano High School, where she dabbled in modeling, hinting at the career that would later define a significant part of her life. Initially, she pursued higher education at the University of California – Los Angeles (UCLA), with aspirations of becoming a veterinarian. However, a sensitivity to the sight of blood led her to reconsider this path, opening the door for her to explore other avenues.

The Playboy Years and Rise to Fame

Benton’s career took a significant turn during her time at UCLA. She joined a commercial agency and began booking commercials, gaining experience and visibility. Her big break arrived in 1968 when she landed an extra role on the popular television show “Playboy After Dark.” It was here that she caught the eye of the show’s host, Hugh Hefner. Their initial encounter, sparked by Hefner’s interest in her reading on set, led to a group date and the beginning of a relationship despite their age difference. Hefner recognized her potential and offered her more prominent roles on the show, eventually making her the co-host. This marked the start of Benton’s association with the Playboy empire, which would significantly shape her public image and career trajectory.

(Photo by Keystone/Getty Images)

During her relationship with Hefner, Benton became a central figure in the Playboy world. Hefner encouraged her to change her name to Barbara Klein for marketing purposes. She played a pivotal role in convincing Hefner to purchase the iconic Playboy Mansion in Holmby Hills in 1974. The Mansion became synonymous with exclusive events and a symbol of the Playboy lifestyle. She graced the cover of “Playboy” magazine four times: July 1969, March 1970, May 1972, and December 1985. Additionally, she appeared in several nude photo layouts, though she was never officially named “Playmate of the Month.” The financial settlement she received after her relationship with Hefner ended contributed significantly to her net worth.

Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images

Musical Pursuits and Success

Beyond her modeling and acting, Benton cultivated a successful musical career. After her time on “Hee Haw,” she developed a keen interest in country music. Her debut single, “Brass Buckles” (1975), was a hit, peaking at number 5 on the Billboard country singles chart. She went on to record eight albums between 1975 and 1979, even producing the final album herself. Benton composed, sang, and played the piano on her tracks, showcasing her multifaceted talent. Her song “Ain’t That Just the Way” was a major success, reaching number one in Sweden for five weeks in 1976. The song experienced a resurgence in popularity in 1996 when Lutricia McNeal covered it, turning it into a significant hit in the UK and other parts of Europe.

Acting Career and Television Appearances

Benton’s acting career is notable for its diversity and longevity. She made a name for herself on the television comedy sketch show “Hee Haw,” where she appeared for four seasons. Seeking to expand her career in Hollywood, she transitioned into film, appearing in movies like “The Naughty Cheerleader,” “The Great American Beauty Contest,” and “Hospital Massacre.” Her television credits include appearances on series such as “McCloud,” “Fantasy Island,” “The Love Boat,” “Murder, She Wrote,” and “The Girls Next Store.”

Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images

Benton’s presence also graced numerous late-night and game shows. She was a regular guest on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson,” becoming a beloved figure for her wit and charm. She was also a popular panelist on “The Hollywood Squares” throughout the 1970s and 1980s, where she further endeared herself to audiences.

Personal Life and Family

Barbi Benton’s personal life has been as fascinating as her career. Her relationship with Hugh Hefner, which began on “Playboy After Dark,” lasted for several years, shaping her life in numerous ways. They lived together from 1969 to 1976, including time at the Playboy Mansion. Although Hefner expressed regret about not marrying her, their relationship ended. Benton has mentioned that the strain of her work travels contributed to the end of their romantic relationship. However, they remained friends. Later, one of their meetings was documented on the reality show “The Girls Next Door.” In 1979, Benton married real estate developer George Gradow. They have two children: Alexander, born in 1986, and Ariana, born in 1988. The couple maintains homes in Aspen, Colorado, and Los Angeles, California. She gave a tour of her Colorado home on HGTV’s “Million Dollar Room” in 2012.

(Photo by Fin Costello/Redferns)

Conclusion

Barbi Benton’s life and career represent a compelling narrative of ambition, talent, and adaptability. From her early days in New York to her iconic status in the Playboy world, her diverse pursuits in music, acting, and television have solidified her legacy. Her estimated net worth of $20 million is a testament to her success. Benton’s story continues to inspire, as she remains a prominent figure in popular culture, leaving an indelible mark on entertainment.