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Jodi Benson
Jodi Benson is an American actress, singer, and voice artist known for her work in film, television, and theater. She was born as Jodi Marzorati on October 10, 1961, in Rockford, Illinois, USA.
Benson's most iconic role is providing the voice for Ariel, the spirited and curious mermaid princess, in Disney's animated classic "The Little Mermaid" (1989). Her enchanting performance and beautiful singing as Ariel garnered critical acclaim and made her a beloved figure among Disney fans.
Aside from her role as Ariel, Jodi Benson has lent her voice to other animated characters in various Disney productions, including Thumbelina in "Thumbelina" (1994) and Barbie in the "Toy Story" film series.
In addition to her voice work, Jodi Benson has a successful career in theater. She has performed in various Broadway productions, including "Smile" and "Crazy for You," showcasing her talent as a singer and stage actress.
Throughout her career, Benson has received numerous accolades and awards for her contributions to the entertainment industry, particularly for her work in animation and voice acting.
Beyond her artistic pursuits, Jodi Benson is also a devoted wife and mother. She is married to actor and playwright Ray Benson, and they have two children together.
Her remarkable talent as a voice artist, singer, and actress, along with her contributions to the world of animation, has cemented Jodi Benson's status as a Disney legend and an influential figure in the entertainment industry.
Personal Information
1. Musical Background: Jodi Benson's musical talents were evident from an early age. She started singing at the age of 4 and was involved in school and community choirs.
2. "The Little Mermaid" Audition: Benson initially auditioned for the role of Belle in Disney's "Beauty and the Beast" (1991) but was later cast as Ariel in "The Little Mermaid" (1989), a role that would become her most iconic and beloved performance.
3. Iconic Song: Jodi Benson's performance of the song "Part of Your World" as Ariel in "The Little Mermaid" is considered one of the most memorable and beloved Disney songs of all time.
4. Voice Artist for Barbie: Benson provided the voice for Barbie in the "Toy Story" film series, starting with "Toy Story 2" (1999) and continuing through "Toy Story 3" (2010) and "Toy Story 4" (2019).
5. Disney Legend: In 2011, Jodi Benson was honored as a Disney Legend for her contributions to the Disney brand and her iconic portrayal of Ariel.
6. Real-Life Inspiration: The character of Ariel in "The Little Mermaid" was partially inspired by Jodi Benson's spirited and enthusiastic personality during the recording process.
7. Voice Work for TV and Video Games: In addition to her work in animated films, Benson has provided voices for various TV shows, video games, and theme park attractions.
8. Broadway Performer: Jodi Benson has had a successful career on Broadway, appearing in several musical productions, including "Crazy for You," "Smile," and "Welcome to the Club."
9. Philanthropy: Benson is involved in various charitable causes and uses her platform to support organizations such as the Children's Hospital of Orange County.
10. Family of Artists: Benson's husband, Ray Benson, is also involved in the entertainment industry as an actor and playwright.
Jodi Benson's portrayal of Ariel in "The Little Mermaid" and her contributions to the world of animation have made her a beloved figure in the hearts of Disney fans worldwide. Her talent as a voice artist and her dedication to her craft continue to be admired by audiences of all ages.
