Peoria, Arizona – Former child star Benji Gregory, best recognized for his role in the 1980s NBC sitcom ALF, was tragically found deceased on June 13. The Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s office confirmed the untimely passing of Gregory, although the cause of death is yet to be determined. The actor was discovered in his car in a Chase Bank parking lot, alongside his service dog, Hans, who also lost his life.
Gregory’s sister, Rebecca, revealed to TMZ that her brother battled depression, bipolar disorder, and a sleep disorder that often led to prolonged periods of wakefulness. Benji Gregory notably portrayed Brian Tanner, the middle son, in 101 episodes of ALF, which aired from 1986 to 1990. The show revolved around the escapades of a furry extraterrestrial named ALF, who humorously navigated human customs and shared a peculiar fondness for cats.
Throughout its runtime, ALF fluctuated between time slots but secured a spot as the tenth most-watched show in all of primetime during its second season in 1987-88. Gregory departed from showbiz in 2003 to join the U.S. Navy, eventually serving as an aerographer’s mate before receiving an honorable medical discharge in 2005.
In light of his passing, Gregory’s sister recommends contributions in his honor to organizations such as The Actors Equity Foundation or the ASPCA. The news of Benji Gregory’s untimely death has left fans and colleagues mourning the loss of a talented actor who etched his mark on television screens across America.