Brian de Benedictis

During Brian de Benedictis' too-short but exciting life, he performed on stage all over New York City, exhibited his artwork in multiple galleries, and performed small parts on TV and in films. Although Brian had always pursued acting, it wasn't until he became gravely ill in 1998 with complications due to pneumonia that he decided to "go for it." After a two-month stint in the hospital, he was released with a renewed spirit and he dedicated himself to making his living solely as an artist. During the next five years, he made great strides in his career, all of which he chronicled on his web site. He appeared frequently in Shakespeare plays with well-established NYC-based companies including Frog & Peach Theatre Co. and Expanded Arts. He also appeared in commercials, and did parts on soaps and two films. He also was active as a painter during this period. When he was diagnosed with lung cancer in February of 2003, he fought fiercely. During his battle he never gave up hope, or auditioning. Although he never became a household name, he was a great artist, and achieved much during his too-short life.