On June 13, 2024, Benji Gregory, a one-time child star notably recognized for his role as Brian Tanner on the 1980s sitcom “ALF,” was discovered dead in Peoria, Arizona, at age 46.
The actor’s body was found in his vehicle in a bank parking lot, accompanied by his service dog, Hans. Local law enforcement is currently investigating the cause of death, with the severe summer heat suspected to have possibly played a role.
Gregory, legally known as Benjamin Gregory Hertzberg, began his rise to fame as a child actor in “ALF,” the popular NBC sitcom about a family that adopts an alien life form. The show was aired from 1986 to 1990 and propelled Gregory to national prominence. Besides “ALF,” he also took part in other TV shows like “The A-Team” and “Fantasy Island.”
Rebecca Pfaffinger, Gregory’s sister, disclosed to The New York Times that Gregory’s body was discovered in his automobile in a Chase Bank parking lot in Peoria, Arizona. The actor had gone there to deposit some residual checks but never left the car. Pfaffinger revealed that Gregory had been dealing with bipolar disorder and insomnia, often staying awake for multiple days. “He fell asleep and died in his car. The heat that day was unbearable,” she said.
The National Weather Service reported that the temperature in metro Phoenix hit 108°F on the day of Gregory’s death. The cause of death has not been officially determined by The Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s office, but those close to Gregory suspect that heatstroke was likely responsible. The extreme summer temperatures in Arizona are known to pose serious risks, especially to individuals in vehicles.
Gregory was born into a family with a long background in the entertainment industry. His early career included appearances in several TV shows and commercials before he landed his significant role in “ALF.” Some of his early work includes roles in “The A-Team,” “T.J. Hooker,” and “Punky Brewster.” Despite his early successes, Gregory left the entertainment industry in the early 2000s and joined the U.S. Navy, serving as an aerographer’s mate, tracking weather patterns for aviation and nautical safety. He was medically discharged honorably in 2005.
In his later life, Gregory was open about his struggle with mental health issues, frequently discussing his battles with depression and bipolar disorder in interviews and on podcasts. In a 2021 interview, Gregory spoke about his hopes for an “ALF” reboot and his struggles with insomnia, which sometimes kept him awake for days on end. “I had great times and tough times, but I always tried to stay positive,” he said in the interview.
Numerous people have shared their condolences and memories of the actor on social media. His family has requested that memorial donations be made to The Actors Equity Foundation or the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).
Rebecca Pfaffinger shared her gratitude for the public’s support and kind words. “We are grieving a great loss,” she said. “Benji was a loving son, brother, and uncle, and he will be dearly missed.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that heatstroke can happen when the body fails to cool down after overheating, causing a rapid increase in body temperature, confusion, and unconsciousness. This serious condition can be deadly if not promptly treated.
Peoria, Arizona, a suburb of Phoenix, experiences some of the highest summer temperatures in the United States. The combination of high temperatures and confined spaces like cars can create dangerous conditions within minutes. Officials encourage residents to be mindful and avoid leaving children or pets in vehicles, even for a brief period.