Obit: Paul Benedict (Harry Bentley on "The Jeffersons"), 70

[Tim from Springfield IL]

More at this link:

http://tv.msn.com/tv/article.aspx?news=342477&gt1=28103

 

[RicoGregg]

A terrific character actor. He had incredible versatility. There was virtually no role or type that he couldn't do. A textbook actor.

 

[Stanislav]

Also a nice obit in the Boston Globe (he hailed from the area):

http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/obituaries/articles/2008/12/04/paul_benedict_70_actor_at_home_in_tv_sitcoms_modern_and_classical_dramas/

Only knowing him as the goofy Jeffersons neighbor, I had no idea of his extensive work in serious stage dramas. Apparently, he was quite the intelligent and respected thespian.

 

[Tim from Springfield IL]

This was not mentioned in the obituary, but before the "Jeffersons" Benedict appeared (uncredited) in recurring "Sesame Street" sketches as the "number painter." One of those skits is on YouTube at:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQGtEd40OFU

 

[KML0224]

So who's left from The Jeffersons now? Sherman Helmsley, Marla Gibbs and the kids (Lionel and Jenny)?

 

[Al Timiter]

Mr. Benedict had a nice turn as Matthew Broderick's college professor in "The Freshman," circa 1990. His reactions concerning Marlon Brando in one classroom scene were priceless. And if you haven't seen it, it's definitely worth the two hour investment.

 

[WMC2006]

So who's left from The Jeffersons now? Sherman Helmsley, Marla Gibbs and the kids (Lionel and Jenny)?

Actually, the original Lionel, Mike Evans, died in 2006. Damon Evans (no relation) is still with us.

Sherman, Marla, and Berlinda Tolbert (Jenny) are also still with us.

Isabel Sanford, Roxie Roker, Franklin Cover, and Zara Cully (Mother Jefferson) have all 'moved on up'.

Doesn't leave much room for a reunion episode. :'(

 

[71dude]

Ralph the doorman and Charley the bartender are also still with us.