Written by Audy Yoshida
Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
When it comes to iconic voices in the world of animation, one name that immediately comes to mind is Jodi Benson. With a career spanning several decades, Benson has become an integral part of the entertainment industry, lending her vocal talents to some of the most beloved characters of all time. From her captivating portrayal of Ariel in Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” to her heartwarming performance as Barbie in the “Toy Story” franchise, Benson has left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions around the world. In this article, we will delve into 47 fascinating facts about Jodi Benson, exploring her achievements, experiences, and the impact she has had on both the industry and her fans.
Key Takeaways:
- Jodi Benson, the voice of Ariel in “The Little Mermaid,” is a talented actress who has inspired audiences with her iconic performances and dedication to philanthropy and education.
- From her enchanting voice as Ariel to her philanthropic work and dedication to her family, Jodi Benson’s impact on the entertainment industry and beyond is truly remarkable.
Jodi Benson was born on October 10, 1961, in Rockford, Illinois.
Benson’s birthplace played a significant role in shaping her love for the arts.
She discovered her passion for performing at an early age.
As a child, Benson participated in community theater and realized her love for acting and singing.
Jodi Benson attended Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois.
She studied music education and voice performance, further honing her skills.
Her breakthrough role came in 1989 when she voiced the character of Ariel in Disney’s “The Little Mermaid.”
This iconic role catapulted Benson to fame and earned her critical acclaim.
Jodi Benson provided both the speaking and singing voice for Ariel in “The Little Mermaid.”
She showcased her impressive vocal range in songs like “Part of Your World” and “Under the Sea.”
The success of “The Little Mermaid” led to Benson reprising her role as Ariel in various sequels and spin-offs.
She voiced Ariel in films like “The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea” and “The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Beginning.”
Jodi Benson has been a regular voice actress in other Disney animations as well.
She lent her voice to characters in films like “Toy Story 2,” “Enchanted,” and “Ralph Breaks the Internet.
In addition to voice acting, Benson has also appeared in live-action TV shows.
She had memorable guest appearances in shows like “Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman” and “Chicago Hope.”
Benson’s talent goes beyond the realms of acting and singing.
She is skilled in ventriloquism and utilizes it as part of her performances.
Jodi Benson is actively involved in philanthropic work.
She supports various charitable organizations and has used her platform to make a positive impact.
Benson is passionate about education.
She has been a vocal advocate for arts education in schools, emphasizing its importance for children’s development.
Jodi Benson is happily married to Ray Benson.
The couple tied the knot in 1984 and has enjoyed a loving and supportive partnership.
She is a devoted mother of two.
Benson and her husband have raised their children, McKinley and Delaney, with love and care.
In recognition of her contributions to the entertainment industry, Benson received a Disney Legend Award in 2011.
This prestigious award honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to The Walt Disney Company.
Benson’s talent extends to stage performances as well.
She has showcased her acting prowess in various musical theater productions.
Jodi Benson has an active presence on social media.
Fans can connect with her and stay updated on her latest projects through platforms like Instagram and Twitter.
She has a strong bond with her fans.
Benson appreciates the love and support she receives from her dedicated fanbase.
Benson has contributed to the soundtracks of several Disney films.
Her beautiful singing voice can be heard in movies like “Beauty and the Beast” and “Hercules.”
She has provided voice-over work for video games as well.
Benson’s voice talents can be heard in games like “Kingdom Hearts” and “Disney Princess Enchanting Storybooks.”
Jodi Benson has been recognized with several awards throughout her career.
Her talent and versatility have earned her accolades from organizations like the Annie Awards and the BTVA Voice Acting Awards.
She has served as a role model for aspiring voice actors.
Benson’s dedication and success inspire others in the industry to pursue their dreams.
Benson’s portrayal of Ariel in “The Little Mermaid” inspired a generation of young girls.
Ariel’s independent and adventurous spirit resonated with many, making her a beloved Disney princess.
Jodi Benson has been a staple at various Disney conventions and events.
She is often invited as a special guest, where fans can meet her and hear her speak about her experiences.
Her performance of “Part of Your World” in “The Little Mermaid” remains one of Disney’s most beloved songs.
The emotional ballad beautifully captures Ariel’s longing for a life beyond the sea.
Jodi Benson’s voice acting talents extend beyond Disney projects.
She has provided voices for characters in other animated shows like “Batman Beyond” and “Camp Lazlo.”
Benson’s dedication to her craft is evident in her attention to detail and character development.
She puts in extensive research and preparation to bring her roles to life.
Jodi Benson continues to lend her voice to the character of Ariel in Disney theme park attractions.
Visitors can hear her voice as they journey through attractions like “Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid.
She has performed live concerts, showcasing her vocal talents to enthusiastic audiences.
Her performances are a testament to her incredible range and stage presence.
Jodi Benson is known for her warm and approachable personality.
She values her fans and takes the time to engage with them whenever possible.
Benson has received honorary degrees from various universities.
Recognizing her contributions to the arts, these degrees cement her status as a respected and influential figure.
She has been a guest speaker at numerous events and conferences.
Benson shares her experiences and wisdom with aspiring performers and industry professionals.
Jodi Benson’s performances in animated films have transcended language barriers.
Her voice work has been translated into multiple languages, allowing her to reach a global audience.
Benson’s rendition of the iconic song “Part of Your World” has been covered by various artists.
Her heartfelt performance continues to inspire singers and musicians worldwide.
She has collaborated with renowned composers and songwriters.
Benson’s talent has been complemented by the musical genius of composers like Alan Menken and Randy Newman.
Jodi Benson’s performances have left a lasting impact on generations of viewers.
Her characters and their stories have become an integral part of our cultural consciousness.
She remains humble despite her success.
Benson is grateful for the opportunities she has been given and remains grounded in her values.
Jodi Benson has a vibrant and infectious laugh.
Her joyful disposition adds charm and warmth to her interviews and public appearances.
She possesses a genuine love for her craft.
Her passion for acting and singing is evident in every performance she delivers.
Benson’s versatility as an actress allows her to take on a wide range of characters.
From whimsical and animated to serious and dramatic, she can tackle any role with finesse.
Jodi Benson’s portrayal of Ariel sparked a resurgence in popularity for Disney animated musicals.
The Little Mermaid” heralded a new era of beloved musical films from Disney.
She has collaborated with other talented voice actors in her career.
Benson’s chemistry with her co-stars enhances the overall quality of the projects she works on.
Jodi Benson has appeared as herself on various talk shows and interviews.
Her candid and affable nature makes her a delightful guest for television audiences.
Her dedication to her work has earned her the admiration of her peers.
Benson is highly respected within the industry for her professionalism and talent.
Jodi Benson has a strong stage presence.
Whether on stage or behind a microphone, she captivates audiences with her charisma.
She has provided voice acting for educational materials.
Benson’s voice has been used in various educational projects, making learning more engaging for children.
Jodi Benson’s performances continue to resonate with fans of all ages.
Her versatile voice and emotional delivery make her characters relatable and memorable.
Benson’s dedication to her family and career serves as an inspiration to many.
She has managed to find balance and success in her personal and professional life.
Conclusion
Jodi Benson is undoubtedly one of the most talented and iconic actresses in the world of voice acting. Her incredible range, diverse roles, and dedication to her craft have solidified her status as a true legend in the entertainment industry. From her unforgettable portrayal of Ariel in Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” to her numerous other successful projects, Jodi Benson has captured the hearts of millions of fans worldwide.
Her exceptional talent, combined with her passion for her work, has allowed her to leave a lasting impact on the world of animation and voice acting. Jodi Benson’s dedication and commitment to her craft continue to inspire aspiring actors and artists in the industry.
As we celebrate the remarkable career of Jodi Benson, we can only look forward to witnessing more extraordinary performances from this incredible talent in the future.
FAQs
Q: How did Jodi Benson get into voice acting?
A: Jodi Benson’s entry into voice acting happened when she auditioned for the role of Ariel in Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” and impressed the casting directors with her incredible singing voice and passion for the character.
Q: What are some other notable roles Jodi Benson has played?
A: Apart from her iconic role as Ariel, Jodi Benson has lent her voice to other memorable characters such as Barbie in the “Toy Story” franchise and Weebo in “Flubber.”
Q: Has Jodi Benson won any awards for her voice acting?
A: Yes, Jodi Benson was recognized for her outstanding performance as Ariel and received the Disney Legends Award in 2011 for her contributions to the Walt Disney Company.
Q: Is Jodi Benson involved in any philanthropic work?
A: Yes, Jodi Benson has been actively involved in several charitable initiatives. She is a supporter of the Children’s Hospital Orange County and has dedicated her time to various children’s organizations.
Q: Does Jodi Benson perform live concerts or events?
A: Yes, Jodi Benson occasionally performs live concerts and has made appearances at various Disney-themed events and conventions, delighting fans with her incredible singing talent.
If you're captivated by Jodi Benson's incredible talent, why not explore more fascinating topics? Dive into the world of Broadway musicals, where stars like Benson shine on stage. Uncover intriguing animation facts that showcase the artistry behind beloved characters. Don't miss our article on "The Little Mermaid" animated series, featuring more of Ariel's enchanting adventures. From the theater to the studio, there's always something new to discover in the realm of entertainment.
Was this page helpful?
Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.