Robby Benson: From Teen Heartthrob to Devoted Grandfather
From fresh-faced teen idol to devoted grandfather and health advocate, Robby Benson has captivated audiences for over five decades. Every photograph tells a story—of triumph, endurance, and the quiet resilience behind the spotlight.
Rising Star of the 1970s
Benson burst onto Hollywood’s scene in the 1970s, quickly becoming an undeniable sensation. As an actor, director, and voice artist, he captured hearts across generations, leaving an indelible mark on film and television. Even today, fans marvel at how little time has touched his charm.
In 1973, Benson made waves at the Cannes Film Festival alongside Glynnis O’Connor to promote Jeremy, signaling the start of his public life. By 1975, he starred in the ABC TV movie Death Be Not Proud, and throughout the decade, he graced red carpets, award shows, and magazine covers—cementing a devoted fanbase that still follows his journey.
Hidden Struggles Behind the Spotlight
Fame, however, came with its challenges. In 1980, a candid photo of Benson strumming a guitar hinted at his love for music, while images with Brooke Shields suggested a man balancing public charm with private battles.
Benson quietly lived with a congenital heart valve defect. During the filming of The Chosen in 1981, co-star Rod Steiger warned him that revealing his condition could jeopardize his career. He heeded that advice, sharing the truth only with his wife, Karla DeVito, enduring grueling schedules while safeguarding his health.
Career Shifts and Family Life
The 1980s brought both professional growth and personal milestones. In 1982, Benson portrayed Olympic athlete Billy Mills in Running Brave. By the mid-80s, he embraced more adult roles, appearing in TV movies and sitcoms like Tough Cookies.
A rare at-home photograph from 1989 showed Benson with DeVito and their daughter, Lyric—a glimpse into a quieter, family-centered chapter of life. Public appearances with DeVito continued to captivate admirers, showcasing a partnership built on love and mutual respect.
Behind the Camera and New Challenges
By 1995, Benson had shifted toward directing, helming a full season of Ellen while balancing family life and professional reinvention. Raising Lyric and his son Zephyr became central to his life.
The 2000s presented further trials. After multiple heart surgeries, he moved from Los Angeles to Cape Cod, Massachusetts, embracing health advocacy. In 2010, he faced a fourth open-heart surgery yet returned to running and swimming, defying odds with remarkable perseverance.
A Beloved Comeback
Benson revisited his iconic role as the Beast in Beauty and the Beast, joining sing-along screenings and celebrating the 25th anniversary in 2016. In 2012, he published his multimedia memoir, I’m Not Dead … Yet!, blending Hollywood tales, personal reflections, and lessons learned from surviving life-threatening health challenges.
Reflecting on his survival, Benson credited his wife: “She helped me find doctors, made sure I got the best treatment. I’m alive because of her.”
Grandfatherhood and Reflection
Today, Benson embraces grandfatherhood, sharing playful moments with his grandson Kingsley. In 2022, he posted a sunlit selfie with DeVito, celebrating four decades together, and in 2024, the couple marked their 42nd anniversary—a testament to enduring love.
That same year, Benson returned to acting in Severance Season 2 as Dr. Mauer, calling the opportunity a stroke of luck. Living in the Pacific Northwest, he reflects on life with gratitude:
“This is a very healthy time, filled with even more love. I hope I’m the best I can be as a grandfather, father, and husband.”
A Legacy in Pictures
On September 29, 2025, Benson and DeVito posed at a fan convention in front of a tribute booth celebrating his life and career. The display captured over five decades of triumphs, struggles, and unforgettable moments—an enduring legacy of a man who has lived fully, loved deeply, and inspired generations.
