Benton Family Genealogy & History

Barbi Benton, born Barbara Lynn Klein, is a renowned American model, actress, and singer, best known for her work with Playboy magazine and her role on the TV series Hee Haw. Benton rose to fame in the 1970s, gracing the cover of Playboy multiple times and having a successful music career with hits like "Brass Buckles." Her acting credits include appearances on popular shows like The Love Boat and Fantasy Island, as well as roles in films such as The Naughty Cheerleader and Hospital Massacre. Benton retired from show business after the birth of her first child in 1986.

Born to a Jewish family in New York City, Barbi Benton's father was a gynecologist, and her mother was an investment counselor. She spent her formative years in Sacramento, where she was childhood friends with journalist Joan Lunden and dated Jay Johnson in junior high school. Benton initially intended to study veterinary medicine at UCLA but opted for a career in entertainment after discovering her aversion to blood.

Peter Benton, M.D., is a fictional character from NBC's medical drama series ER, portrayed by actor Eriq La Salle. As an original character, Benton appeared from the pilot episode through the eighth season and returned for guest appearances in the fifteenth season, including the series finale. Eriq La Salle's portrayal of Dr. Benton is marked by his surgical expertise and complex personal relationships, notably with Jeanie Boulet and Carla Reese. The character's name was inspired by the Peter Bent Brigham Hospital, highlighting connections to medical heritage. Benton's professional journey is punctuated by significant personal challenges and growth, making him a memorable character within the ER series.

In Season 1, Dr. Peter Benton's family context includes caring for his mother, who has suffered a stroke and is mostly looked after by his sister Jackie. Peter's mother eventually passes away, leading to a profound impact on him. The character's family story further expands with his relationship with Carla Reese, with whom he has a son, Reese Benton. Reese's premature birth and subsequent diagnosis of deafness add depth to Benton's family narrative, showcasing his evolution as a father.

Mark Benton, born on 16 November 1965 in Guisborough, England, is a celebrated English actor and television presenter. He is renowned for his roles in series such as "Waterloo Road," where he played Daniel "Chalky" Chalk, and "Shakespeare & Hathaway: Private Investigators" as Frank Hathaway. Benton's diverse career includes appearances in "Doctor Who," "Strictly Come Dancing," and films like "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus." Additionally, he has collaborated with Vic and Bob and starred in the UK tour of "Hairspray the Musical" as Edna Turnblad. His role as a bank manager in commercials for Nationwide Building Society further highlights his versatility.

Brook Benton, born Benjamin Franklin Peay, was a celebrated American singer and songwriter whose music bridged rock and roll, rhythm and blues, and pop genres. Active in the 1950s and 1960s, Benton achieved significant success with hits like "It's Just a Matter of Time," "Endlessly," and "Rainy Night in Georgia." His collaborations with Dinah Washington, notably "Baby (You've Got What It Takes)" and "A Rockin' Good Way," solidified his place in music history. Over his career, Benton charted more than 50 Billboard hits, showcasing his versatility and enduring appeal.

Brook Benton began his musical journey singing gospel in a Methodist church choir in Lugoff, South Carolina, under the guidance of his father, who was the choir master. He eventually moved on to New York, where he joined several vocal groups before launching a successful solo career. Benton's family also included a sister who originally recorded "Baby (You've Got What It Takes)" under the stage name Dorothy Pay.