Former child star Benji Gregory, cherished by many for his role as Brian Tanner in the beloved NBC sitcom Alf, has tragically passed away at the age of 46. The actor’s death was confirmed by his sister, who spoke to TMZ, revealing that Gregory was found unresponsive in his car in Peoria, Arizona, on June 13.
The outlet revealed Gregory was discovered inside his vehicle at the parking lot of a Chase Bank, where the former actor’s service dog was also found deceased. The news has sent ripples of sorrow through the entertainment community and fans alike, as they remember the young actor who brought joy and laughter into their homes during the late 1980s.
No cause of death has been confirmed at this stage.
Gregory’s career in the limelight began early, and he quickly became a household name with his role on Alf, a series that aired from 1986 to 1990. The show, which featured a friendly alien living with an average American family, became a cultural phenomenon, and Gregory’s portrayal of the precocious Brian Tanner was a significant part of its charm and success.
Despite his early fame, Gregory stepped away from acting after starring in a handful of shows following Alf conclusion in 1990. His life post-Hollywood remained largely private, though it is known that he joined the U.S. Navy in 2003 before being medically discharged in 2005.
More to come.