Born on September 12, 1978, Benjamin McKenzie Schenkkan is an American actor, author, and commentator.
He gained recognition for his prominent television roles, such as portraying Ryan Atwood in the teen drama series The O.C. (2003–2007), Ben Sherman in the crime drama Southland (2009–2013), and James “Jim” Gordon in the crime drama Gotham (2014–2019). McKenzie’s journey in film commenced with his appearance in the Academy Award-nominated movie Junebug (2005), followed by roles in films like 88 Minutes (2007), Goodbye World (2013), Some Kind of Beautiful (2014), and Line of Duty (2019).
In 2020, he ventured into Broadway with his debut in the Bess Wohl play Grand Horizons.
Beyond his acting career, McKenzie has gained attention for his insightful analysis of the cryptocurrency bubble and fraud, collaborating with journalist Jacob Silverman.
Their book, Easy Money: Cryptocurrency, Casino Capitalism, and the Golden Age of Fraud, hit the shelves in July 2023.
Early Life
Born in Austin, Texas, Benjamin McKenzie Schenkkan is one of three sons in the family of Frances Schenkkan, a poet, and Pete Schenkkan, an attorney.
With two younger brothers, both former actors and a brother-in-law in photojournalist Scout Tufankjian, the family has a rich connection to the arts.
His grandfather, Robert F. Schenkkan, played a significant role as a professor at the University of Texas at Austin, contributing to the passing of the Public Broadcasting Act of 1967.
Adding to his family’s literary achievements, McKenzie is the nephew of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Robert Schenkkan, with whom he collaborated on the 2019 work “The Investigation.”
To avoid any confusion with actor Ben Shenkman, McKenzie incorporates his middle name, McKenzie, which is derived from his paternal grandmother’s maiden name, into his stage identity.
Notably, his second cousin is actress Sarah Drew.
During his middle school years at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School, McKenzie formed lasting connections, including a friendship and flag football partnership with future Super Bowl MVP Drew Brees.
Transitioning to Stephen F. Austin High School, he showcased his athletic skills as a wide receiver and defensive back on the football team.
Continuing his education at the University of Virginia from 1997 to 2001, McKenzie pursued a major in foreign affairs and economics, following the academic paths of both his father and paternal grandfather.
Ben McKenzie’s Net Worth
As of late, it is approximated that Ben McKenzie has accumulated a net worth of approximately $13 million.
What Is Ben McKenzie Doing Now?
Amidst the evolving landscape of Hollywood, Ben McKenzie remains an influential figure.
Currently, he is involved in The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent Which showcases his versatility and commitment to the craft
Did Ben McKenzie And Morena Baccarin Meet On The OC?
While both Ben McKenzie and Morena Baccarin gained fame through “The OC,” their paths didn’t cross romantically on set.
Their connection blossomed later, leading to significant personal development.
Not how it works, but I’ll take it. Thanks for using a pic of me from when I was younger 🙂 ❤️ https://t.co/kjVIijXvKw
— Ben McKenzie (@ben_mckenzie) September 12, 2020
Ben Mckenzie’sFather-sonactivities Personal Life
In September 2015, actress Morena Baccarin revealed in a legal declaration related to her divorce from Austin Chick that she intended to marry her co-star from Gotham, McKenzie.
Additionally, she shared the news of her pregnancy with McKenzie, and their daughter, Frances Laiz Setta, was born on March 2, 2016.
Just 16 days later, on March 18, Baccarin and Chick’s divorce was finalized. Baccarin and McKenzie later confirmed their engagement in November 2016 and exchanged vows on June 2, 2017, which also happened to be Baccarin’s 38th birthday, in Brooklyn, New York.
Their son, Arthur, was born in March 2021. In her blended family, McKenzie is a stepfather to Baccarin’s son, Julius.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CuNIj9bJdea/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=NTYzOWQzNmJjMA==
Conclusion
Ben McKenzie’s enduring success in the entertainment industry is a testament to his talent and adaptability.
From his current projects to his early life, we’ve explored the multifaceted aspects of this charismatic actor.
As Ben McKenzie continues to shape his legacy, his journey remains a source of inspiration for aspiring artists in the ever-evolving world of showbiz.
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