Brian Benben Net Worth

Brian Benben’s Net Worth: A Deep Dive into the Life and Career of the ‘Dream On’ Star

Introduction: The Wealth of Brian Benben

Brian Benben, a familiar face to television audiences, has amassed a net worth of $13 million, a figure that reflects his successful career in acting. This combined net worth is shared with his wife, the acclaimed actress Madeleine Stowe, whom he married in 1982.

Benben’s career is marked by a diverse range of roles, but he is perhaps best known for his starring role as Martin Tupper in the HBO comedy series “Dream On,” which aired from 1990 to 1996. Beyond this iconic role, he has consistently appeared in both television and film, demonstrating his versatility and enduring appeal. His notable appearances include roles in “Private Practice,” “Roadies,” “Imposters,” and “I Come in Peace.”

Early Life and Aspirations

Brian Edward Benben was born on June 18, 1956, in Winchester, Virginia, to parents Gloria Patricia and Peter Benben Sr. His father worked as a produce buyer, supporting the family. The family later relocated to New York, where Benben attended high school in Marlboro. After graduating, he spent two years at Ulster County Community College in Stone Ridge, New York. Driven by his passion for acting, he then moved to New York City to pursue his dreams.

Early Career: The Gangster Chronicles and Broadway

Benben’s journey into the acting world began with various jobs to support himself while auditioning for roles. He landed his first significant role in 1981 in “The Gangster Chronicles,” a crime drama based on the real lives of gangsters Bugsy Siegel, Lucky Luciano, and Meyer Lansky. In the film, Benben played a fictionalized version of Meyer Lansky, and the real Lansky even visited the set to provide feedback. The film’s success led to a subsequent miniseries of 13 hour-long episodes.

Following “The Gangster Chronicles,” Benben made his Broadway debut in John Byrne’s play “Slab Boys” in 1983, alongside a stellar cast including Kevin Bacon, Sean Penn, Val Kilmer, and Jackie Earle Haley. The play, which ran for 48 performances, offered a glimpse into the lives of young, working-class Scots in the mid-20th century.

‘Dream On’: The Role That Defined a Decade

In 1990, Brian Benben secured the starring role in the HBO series “Dream On.” The show, a sitcom, followed the life of Martin Tupper, a divorced New York City book editor navigating his career, family, and romantic relationships. “Dream On” became a cultural touchstone, running for six seasons and earning Benben critical acclaim, including the CableACE Award for Actor in a Comedy Series in 1993. The show’s unique blend of humor, relatability, and integration of classic film clips resonated with audiences, solidifying Benben’s status as a leading comedic actor.

(Photo by Doug Benc/Getty Images)

Post-‘Dream On’: Continued Success in Television and Film

During the run of “Dream On,” Benben remained active in other projects. He appeared in the 1990 film “I Come in Peace” (released as “Dark Angel” outside the United States), playing Special Agent Arwood ‘Larry’ Smith. In 1994, he took on the role of Roger Henderson in the film “Radioland Murders.” In 1998, he ventured into creating his own show, “The Brian Benben Show,” where he starred and co-executive produced.

Benben continued to be a presence on television. In 2001, he appeared in the television film “The Flamingo Rising.” In 2003, he played the lead role of Heywood Klein in the series “Kingpin,” and in 2005, he appeared in an episode of “Masters of Horror.”

‘Private Practice’ and Beyond

In 2008, Benben joined the cast of “Private Practice,” a spin-off of the popular series “Grey’s Anatomy.” He played the role of Sheldon Wallace, initially in a recurring capacity during the second and third seasons, before becoming a main cast member in seasons four, five, and six. He remained on the show until 2013, further showcasing his dramatic acting abilities.

Alongside “Private Practice,” Benben continued to diversify his roles. In 2014, he appeared in an episode of the hit show “Scandal.” In 2015, he made a guest appearance on “Grace and Frankie.” In 2016, he had a recurring role in the series “Roadies.” His next main role came in 2017 when he was cast in the series “Imposters,” where he played Max, from 2017 to 2018. These roles highlighted his ability to adapt to different genres and collaborate with diverse casts.

(Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic, Inc)

Personal Life: Family and Interests

In 1982, Brian Benben married actress Madeleine Stowe, whom he met while filming “The Gangster Chronicles.” Together, they have one child, a daughter named May, born in 1996. The couple resides west of Austin, Texas, near Johnson City, and previously lived in Santa Monica, California. Benben’s personal life reflects a commitment to family, highlighting a balance between a successful career and a stable personal life.

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Conclusion: Brian Benben’s Enduring Legacy

Brian Benben’s career is a testament to his versatility and dedication as an actor. From his early roles in “The Gangster Chronicles” to his breakout role in “Dream On” and his later success in “Private Practice” and other series, Benben has consistently delivered compelling performances. His lasting impact on television, combined with his enduring marriage and family life, cements his legacy as a respected and accomplished figure in the entertainment industry.