John Bennett Perry: Old Spice Icon and Matthew Perry's Hero Father

The Life and Career of John Bennett Perry

John Bennett Perry lived an accomplished life as an actor, director, and teacher. Though he found great success in Hollywood, his proudest role was being a father to his son, famous actor Matthew Perry.

Early Life and Education

John Bennett Perry was born in Williamstown, Massachusetts in 1941. From an early age, he was drawn to performing. As a teenager, he started acting in summer stock theater productions. Perry went on to study drama at the University of Miami. After graduating in 1964, he continued honing his craft in New York City.

Acting and Directing Career

Perry's breakout role came in 1967 when he was cast as Hayden Rorke's co-star in the TV series Mr. Novak. Through the late 1960s and 70s, he racked up over 75 credits as a prolific character actor. Perry made guest appearances on hit shows like The Waltons, Little House on the Prairie, Lou Grant, and Falcon Crest.

In the 1980s, Perry shifted his focus to directing. He helmed episodes of acclaimed series such as The Incredible Hulk, Scarecrow and Mrs. King, and Star Trek: The Next Generation. Perry also directed his son Matthew's breakout sitcom Home Free.

Later Acting Career

By the early 1990s, Perry returned to regular acting work. His affable nature made him a popular choice for comedy roles. He played gay sportscaster Dennis Bolt on Soap and lecherous businessman Benjamin Kramer on Beverly Hills, 90210.

However, John Bennett Perry remains best known to contemporary audiences as the "Old Spice Guy." From 2006 to 2008, he appeared as the grandfather in the viral TV commercials. With his suave delivery of the catchphrase "The man your man could smell like," Perry's character became a beloved internet meme.

Matthew Perry's Relationship with His Father

In his memoir Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing, Matthew Perry wrote lovingly about his father John Bennett Perry. Though the elder Perry achieved his own show business success, his son saw him as a perfectionist and tireless worker.

"Eventually, John Bennett Perry became the Old Spice guy," Matthew recalled. "I saw his face more often on TV or in magazines than I did in reality." Still, whenever they did spend time together, the younger actor viewed his dad as "perfect."

"My dad was my hero," Matthew wrote. Tragically, John Perry passed away from a heart attack in 2011 at the age of 69. However, Matthew continues honoring his father's legacy to this day.

John Bennett Perry's Enduring Legacy

Over his decades-long career, John Bennett Perry entertained millions with his acting talent and disarming wit. To his son and former co-stars, he was the consummate professional—always prepared, perpetually charming.

Perry's work as the sly-yet-sincere Old Spice Guy introduced him to a new generation of fans. Decades after those commercials first aired, people still quote his iconic catchphrases. In 2022, Old Spice even brought back Perry's character for a viral marketing campaign.

However, John Bennett Perry's greatest accomplishment was raising Matthew Perry to be a successful actor in his own right. To this day, Matthew credits his father for teaching him professionalism and perseverance through leading by example.

John Bennett Perry was a beloved actor, director, father, and friend. Though he may not be here today, his legacy continues bringing joy and inspiration to audiences across generations.

FAQs

Who was John Bennett Perry?

John Bennett Perry (1941-2011) was an American actor and director best known for playing the "Old Spice Guy" in popular TV commercials from 2006-2008.

What shows did John Bennett Perry appear in?

Over his long career, Perry appeared in shows like Mr. Novak, The Waltons, Little House on the Prairie, Lou Grant, Falcon Crest, Beverly Hills 90210, and many more. He also directed episodes of series such as The Incredible Hulk, Scarecrow and Mrs. King, and Star Trek: The Next Generation.

How was John Bennett Perry related to Matthew Perry?

John Bennett Perry was the father of actor Matthew Perry, best known for playing Chandler Bing on the sitcom Friends. Matthew frequently praised his dad as his hero and acting mentor.

Why was John Bennett Perry so popular as the "Old Spice Guy"?

Perry charmed viewers with his suave, tongue-in-cheek delivery of the memorable catchphrase "The man your man could smell like." His commercial character became a widely-quoted internet meme.