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Jodi Benson, born on October 10, 1961 in Rockford, Illinois, has had a successful Hollywood career spanning movies and TV shows. She gained worldwide recognition for her role as the voice of Ariel in Disney’s animated film “The Little Mermaid” (1989). Benson has also lent her voice to other iconic characters like Tour Guide Barbie in “Toy Story 2” (1999) and Thumbelina in the animated film of the same name (1994). She has appeared in other Disney projects such as “The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea” (2000) and “Enchanted” (2007). Benson has also showcased her acting talents in Broadway productions like “Crazy For You” and won a Tony and Helen Hayes award nomination for her role as Polly Baker. With a diverse filmography and notable roles, Jodi Benson has established herself as a talented actress in the entertainment industry.

Key Takeaways:

• Jodi Benson’s Hollywood career includes notable roles in movies and TV shows.
• Her most famous role is as the voice of Ariel in Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” (1989).
• Benson has also voiced other memorable characters in Disney films like Tour Guide Barbie and Thumbelina.
• She has appeared in Broadway productions and received a Tony Award nomination for her role in “Crazy For You”.
• Jodi Benson’s talent and versatility have earned her recognition and acclaim in the entertainment industry.

Early Life and Education

Jodi Benson, born as Jodi Marie Marzorati on October 10, 1961 in Rockford, Illinois, grew up in a Catholic family. She attended Boylan Central Catholic High School and later studied at Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois. Benson’s passion for performing arts developed at a young age, leading her to pursue a career in acting and singing. Her early life and education laid the foundation for her successful Hollywood career.

Throughout her formative years, Benson displayed a natural talent for both acting and singing. She actively participated in school musicals and local theater productions, honing her skills and gaining valuable experience on stage. Benson’s dedication and hard work earned her scholarships to pursue her passion at Millikin University, where she further refined her craft through formal training and academic studies.

During her time at Millikin University, Benson had the opportunity to work closely with renowned theater professionals, exposing her to diverse styles and techniques. These experiences proved instrumental in shaping her artistic approach and preparing her for the challenges and demands of the entertainment industry. With a solid educational foundation and a burning passion for her craft, Benson was ready to embark on a successful career in Hollywood.

Voice Acting Career

Jodi Benson has made a significant impact in the world of voice acting, renowned for her portrayal of Ariel in Disney’s “The Little Mermaid.” Her mesmerizing performance brought the beloved mermaid princess to life and captivated audiences of all ages. Benson’s exceptional talent and dedication to her craft have earned her a special place in the hearts of Disney fans worldwide.

With her distinctive voice, Benson has lent her talents to various other Disney projects. In addition to reprising her role as Ariel in the animated TV series “The Little Mermaid,” she has also portrayed the iconic character in the direct-to-video sequels, “The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea” (2000) and “The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Beginning” (2008). Benson’s portrayal of Ariel has become synonymous with the character and has solidified her as a Disney legend.

Aside from her role as Ariel, Benson has voiced other memorable Disney characters, including Tour Guide Barbie in the “Toy Story” franchise and the Queen in “Secret of the Wings.” Her ability to bring these characters to life with her versatile voice acting skills highlights her immense talent and versatility as an actress.

Table: Jodi Benson’s Notable Voice Roles

Benson’s talent for voice acting extends beyond the realm of Disney. She has lent her voice to numerous other animated projects, including TV shows like “Camp Lazlo” and “The Pirates of Dark Water.” This demonstrates her versatility as an actress, being able to bring characters from various worlds and universes to life.

Jodi Benson’s incredible voice acting career has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Her remarkable performances and memorable characters have provided joy and inspiration to audiences worldwide.

Live-Action Roles

While most of Jodi Benson’s career has been in voice acting, she has also taken on live-action roles that showcase her versatility as an actress. One notable live-action role was her portrayal of Sam in Disney’s “Enchanted” (2007), a critically acclaimed film that combined live-action and animation. Benson’s performance in “Enchanted” demonstrated her acting skills alongside a star-studded cast, including Amy Adams and Patrick Dempsey. The film was a commercial success and further solidified Benson’s status as a talented actress.

Another memorable live-action role for Benson was in the film “Flubber” (1997), where she portrayed the character Weebo, an intelligent flying robot created by the main character, played by Robin Williams. Benson’s performance in “Flubber” highlighted her ability to bring unique and imaginative characters to life on screen.

“Enchanted was such a magical experience for me. It was incredible to work with such a talented cast and bring a beloved Disney princess to life in a live-action setting. And playing Weebo in “Flubber” was a lot of fun because it allowed me to tap into my creativity and portray a unique character. I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to showcase my acting skills beyond voice acting.”

– Jodi Benson

Table: Jodi Benson’s Live-Action Roles

These live-action roles in “Enchanted” and “Flubber” highlight Jodi Benson’s range as an actress and her ability to captivate audiences on both the big screen and the small screen. While she is best known for her voice acting work, Benson’s foray into live-action roles has further solidified her status as a talented and versatile performer in the entertainment industry.

Broadway Career

In addition to her work in film and television, Jodi Benson has also made a name for herself on Broadway, showcasing her versatility as an actress and singer. Her talent for performing on stage has earned her critical acclaim and recognition in the theater world.

One of Benson’s notable Broadway performances was in the Kenny Ortega-directed musical “Marilyn: An American Fable” in 1983. This role helped launch her career in the theater industry and set the stage for her success in subsequent productions.

Benson’s portrayal of Polly Baker in “Crazy For You” earned her a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Musical, further solidifying her talent and impact in the theater world. Her ability to captivate audiences through her singing and acting has made her a sought-after performer in both the film and theater industries.

With her Broadway career, Jodi Benson has proven that her talents extend beyond voice acting and on-screen performances. She continues to delight audiences with her remarkable performances on stage, cementing her status as a versatile and accomplished actress.

Awards and Recognition

Jodi Benson’s talent and contributions to the entertainment industry have not gone unnoticed. Her exceptional work as the voice of Ariel in Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” earned her critical acclaim and widespread recognition. In 2011, she was honored as a Disney Legend, a prestigious title reserved for individuals who have made significant contributions to the world of Disney animation. This recognition further solidified her place in Disney history and showcased the impact of her portrayal of Ariel on audiences around the world.

Benson’s incredible performance as Ariel not only earned her awards and accolades but also played a pivotal role in the revival of Disney’s animated films during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Her portrayal of the iconic mermaid princess has become beloved by generations of fans, further highlighting Benson’s cultural influence and lasting legacy.

“To be recognized as a Disney Legend is truly a dream come true,” Benson expressed upon receiving the prestigious award. “I feel incredibly blessed to have been a part of the Disney legacy and to have portrayed such an iconic character like Ariel. The love and support from fans around the world have been overwhelming, and I am forever grateful.”

In addition to these awards, Benson’s portrayal of Ariel has left an indelible mark on popular culture. The impact of her performance can still be felt today, as “The Little Mermaid” continues to captivate audiences of all ages. Benson’s achievements as an actress and voice artist have cemented her status as a true Hollywood legend.

Jodi Benson’s Personal Life

Jodi Benson, known for her iconic voice acting roles and successful Hollywood career, leads a fulfilling personal life with her husband and children. She is married to actor/singer Ray Benson, and together they have two children, McKinley and Delaney. The Benson family resides in the United States, north of Atlanta, Georgia, where they enjoy spending quality time together.

Despite the demands of her busy career, Jodi Benson values her family above all else. They have been a constant source of love and support throughout her journey in the entertainment industry. Benson’s dedication to her family reflects her grounded nature and commitment to maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Alongside her soaring career, Jodi Benson has built a loving and nurturing home for her family. Whether she is captivating audiences with her voice acting talents or spending cherished moments with her loved ones, Benson continues to inspire through her talent, dedication, and ability to bring joy to people’s lives.

Notable Quote

“Family is everything to me. They are my rock, my inspiration, and my greatest joy. I am blessed to have a loving husband and beautiful children who support and encourage me every step of the way.”

Other Acting Projects

While Jodi Benson is widely recognized for her work with Disney, she has also showcased her talents in various non-Disney projects. Benson has proven her versatility as an actress by taking on a wide range of roles in both animated and live-action projects.

One notable non-Disney role for Benson was in the TV show “Caroline in the City” (1997), where she displayed her acting skills in a comedic role. Additionally, she has lent her voice to animated series such as “Camp Lazlo” (2005-2008) and “The Pirates of Dark Water” (1991-1993), further highlighting her talent for voice acting.

Here is a table highlighting some of Jodi Benson’s notable non-Disney acting projects:

These projects not only demonstrate Benson’s range as an actress but also highlight her ability to bring memorable characters to life in both the animated and live-action realms.

Legacy and Impact

Jodi Benson’s portrayal of Ariel in “The Little Mermaid” has left an indelible mark on popular culture. The film, along with Benson’s captivating performance, played a pivotal role in the revival of Disney’s animated films during the late 1980s and early 1990s. The enchanting tale of Ariel and her journey to discover her true self resonated with audiences worldwide, further cementing Benson’s status as a talented voice actress.

Benson’s impact extends beyond the realm of animation. Her ability to breathe life into characters through her voice acting has made her an influential figure in the entertainment industry. Her iconic portrayal of Ariel has inspired generations of young girls and has become a cultural touchstone. The film’s memorable songs, including the award-winning “Part of Your World,” continue to captivate audiences and showcase Benson’s exceptional vocal talent.

With her extensive body of work and contribution to Disney’s legacy, Jodi Benson has solidified her place in the pantheon of talented actresses and voice artists. She continues to be recognized for her remarkable achievements and her ability to bring joy and magic to audiences of all ages. Benson’s legacy is one that will endure, reminding us of the enduring power of storytelling and the impact that a single voice can have on the world.

FAQ

What is Jodi Benson’s most famous role?

Jodi Benson is best known for her role as the voice of Ariel in Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” (1989).

Has Jodi Benson been in any other Disney projects?

Yes, Jodi Benson has appeared in other Disney projects such as “The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea” (2000) and “Enchanted” (2007).

What other iconic characters has Jodi Benson voiced?

Jodi Benson has also lent her voice to characters like Tour Guide Barbie in “Toy Story 2” (1999) and Thumbelina in the animated film of the same name (1994).

Has Jodi Benson acted in live-action roles?

Yes, Jodi Benson has taken on live-action roles, including her portrayal of Sam in Disney’s “Enchanted” (2007) and Weebo in “Flubber” (1997).

Has Jodi Benson performed on Broadway?

Yes, Jodi Benson has appeared in Broadway productions like “Crazy For You” (1992) and received a Tony Award nomination for her role as Polly Baker.

What awards has Jodi Benson won?

Jodi Benson has been honored as a Disney Legend and has received critical acclaim for her performances. She has also earned a Tony Award nomination.

Who is Jodi Benson married to?

Jodi Benson is married to actor/singer Ray Benson.

What other projects has Jodi Benson been involved in?

Jodi Benson has appeared in TV shows like “Caroline in the City” (1997) and voiced characters in animated series like “Camp Lazlo” (2005-2008).

What is Jodi Benson’s legacy in the entertainment industry?

Jodi Benson’s portrayal of Ariel in “The Little Mermaid” has had a lasting impact on popular culture and she is recognized as a Disney Legend.

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