LJ Benet, well-known for his role in the Disney Channel series “Dog with a Blog,” has successfully made his Broadway debut in a stage adaptation of the cult classic horror-comedy “The Lost Boys.” This venture marks a significant milestone in the actor’s career, coming after a period of introspection and self-discovery that led him to step away from the spotlight.
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At just 29 years old, Benet reflects on the challenges he faced growing up in the entertainment industry. “Honestly, I had no idea who I was because I feel like I’d been playing this character of LJ, the actor, for such a long time,” he explained in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. His decision to take a break from acting followed an exhausting musical performance in Las Vegas when he was only 19, right after finishing work on “Dog with a Blog.”
He candidly shares the emotional toll of being in the limelight, stating: “As you grow older, putting on a constant facade becomes more tiring.” In a manner reminiscent of Keke Palmer’s recent TED Talk about the pressures of persona versus authenticity, Benet acknowledges the struggle of constructing an identity within the confines of public perception.
After his hiatus, Benet ventured into various odd jobs to support himself, reflecting on a surreal time of uncertainty. “I started doing Uber Eats, selling solar panels, and even worked as a handyman,” he recalled. These experiences, devoid of the expectations associated with his acting career, allowed him to explore who he was beneath the façade. “I had no idea what was happening in my life,” he admitted, yet he found solace in discovering his faith during this turbulent period.
Benet’s self-discovery journey led him back to the stage at an opportune moment, landing the role of Michael in “The Lost Boys,” directed by Tony Award-winner Michael Arden. The show, which reimagines the original film’s plot, takes place in a small California beach town rife with teenage vampires. It explores themes of identity, belonging, and the importance of found family, which resonated deeply with Benet after his own years spent searching for his identity.
The excitement surrounding “The Lost Boys” is palpable, especially as it has been nominated for an impressive twelve Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Benet describes the experience of working on this production as transformative, stating that it has “made him a better human.” He also expressed his hopes that audiences will see themselves reflected in the characters, creating an emotional connection through shared experiences.
“The show captures the essence of what it means to belong and find one’s place in the world,” Benet remarked. He believes it conveys a message of hope, suggesting that everyone has the potential to be part of a chosen family, even in the face of challenges. The heartfelt journey of these characters, according to Benet, illustrates that community can be discovered in the most unexpected places.
Tickets for “The Lost Boys” are currently available, enticing audiences to engage with this provocative and relatable exploration of youth, identity, and connection. As Benet steps into this pivotal role, he hopes not only to entertain but also to inspire viewers, reminding them of the universal quest for belonging. His journey serves as a testament to the importance of self-exploration and the impact it can have on both personal and professional growth.
With his Broadway debut successfully behind him, LJ Benet is poised for a promising future in the performing arts while encouraging others to embrace their authentic selves. His return to the stage is not just a career move but a significant personal turning point that illustrates the power of resilience and the enduring quest for identity.