Jodi Benson Net Worth, Relationships, Age/Birthdate & Birthday

Jodi Benson is an American actress and singer best known as the original voice of Ariel — a defining Disney icon — whose enduring career in animation, Broadway, and music has shaped generations of fans.

From her breakthrough as the voice of Ariel to decades of Broadway performances and voice-over roles, Jodi Benson remains a beloved name in entertainment. With an estimated net worth of $4 million, and a personal life rooted in long-term marriage and family, her story weaves talent, consistency, and legacy into one remarkable journey. She was born on October 10, 1961 — a date that marks the birthday of a performer whose voice helped define modern animation.

Quick Facts

From Small-Town Illinois to Disney Royalty

Born Jodi Marie Marzorati in Rockford, Illinois, Jodi Benson grew up singing from the age of five. She later attended Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois, where she enrolled in the B.F.A. program in musical theatre — setting aside other paths to embrace her calling for performance. 

Her big break came not in film but on Broadway: in 1983 she debuted in Marilyn: An American Fable. In 1986, she starred in the Howard Ashman / Marvin Hamlisch musical Smile, where she introduced the song “Disneyland.” 

The real turning point arrived when lyricist Howard Ashman — impressed by Benson’s voice and spirit — recommended her for a new Disney animated feature: a little project titled The Little Mermaid. That decision changed both her life and animation history. In 1989, she was cast as the voice of Ariel — a role she continues to reprise across sequels, spin-offs, and media. 

Defining moments in Jodi Benson’s journey include:

• Broadway debut in Marilyn: An American Fable (1983), launching her professional career.

• Leading role in Smile (1986), where she introduced “Disneyland” — her first major musical mark.

• Landing the role of Ariel for The Little Mermaid (1989), transforming her career and cultural legacy.

• Earning a Tony Award nomination for her performance in Crazy for You (1992). 

• Sustaining decades-long work in voice acting and performance — from Disney classics to modern appearances.

The Core Pillars of Her Wealth

The core pillars of Jodi Benson’s wealth include:

• Iconic voice roles — especially as Ariel in The Little Mermaid, a recurring role across films, television, games, and merchandise.

• Broadway and stage performances — musical theatre work that built her reputation beyond voice acting.

• Long-term involvement and legacy licensing — continued royalties and engagements tied to Disney — a powerhouse in animation and merchandising.

• Voice roles beyond Disney — including characters in other animated films and video games, diversifying her income.

These steady revenue streams have underpinned a durable, if modest by Hollywood-star standards, net worth.

Relationships & Family Life

Jodi Benson’s personal life reflects stability and commitment. She has been married to fellow performer Ray Benson since 1984.  Together they have two children: a son, McKinley, born in 1999; and a daughter, Delaney, born in 2001. 

Key insights into Jodi Benson’s relationships and personal life:

• Jodi and Ray Benson built a long-term partnership grounded in shared artistic and family values.

• Their children follow paths shaped by creativity and upbringing in a family of performers.

• The family has maintained relative privacy, favoring quiet life over tabloid exposure — a rarity among successful celebrities.

Beyond Career: Lifestyle, Assets & Interests

Beyond her career success, Jodi Benson leads a lifestyle that reflects both passion and purpose, including:

• A quiet family life: After many years in show business, she resides with her husband and children in North Georgia. 

• Connection with fans and young audiences: Through Disney events and occasional public appearances, she remains active in engaging with newer generations. 

• Mentorship and legacy-conscious work: She often reflects on the meaning behind her roles — especially Ariel — and conveys appreciation for the magic of storytelling. 

Publicly available records do not highlight extravagant real estate holdings or flashy lifestyle assets; instead, her life seems rooted in consistency, family, and the lasting emotional impact of her work.

Net Worth Breakdown & Analysis

Estimates of Jodi Benson’s net worth vary, but the most cited figure places it at $4 million. 

Because public information is limited, valuations focus on documented roles and recurring royalties rather than speculative investments or business ventures.

Public Image, Legacy & Influence

Jodi Benson’s legacy stands not on extravagant headlines but on the enduring cultural footprint of her work. As the original voice of Ariel, she helped launch what became known as the Disney Renaissance — a revival era for Disney animation. 

Her voice defined a princess for generations. Parents raised on her Ariel passed that love to their children; new fans discover the original through streaming, games, and Disney media. That intergenerational reach cements her influence beyond any single project.

Critics and fans alike view Benson as a cornerstone of animated musical storytelling. Her transition from Broadway to voice acting demonstrated versatility; her long-term consistency — reprising Ariel across decades — shows professionalism and commitment.

For many, she embodies the timeless magic of Disney: a “voice of wonder,” carrying nostalgia, childhood dreams, and the idea that some stories — and some voices — never grow old.

Conclusion

From small-town Rockford to the halls of Broadway and the studios of Disney, Jodi Benson’s journey is one of perseverance, enduring talent, and quiet legacy. With a net worth of $4 million, a lifelong marriage to Ray Benson, and a family rooted in love and creativity, she stands as a testament to what consistent artistry and authenticity can achieve. Born on October 10, 1961, her birthday is a celebration not just of her life — but of the magic she brought to millions through the voice of Ariel.

Her story reminds us that fame doesn’t always need to be flashy: sometimes, it’s simply about lending your voice to a dream — and letting that dream carry you.