John D. Benson; Character Actor, Stuntman, Production Manager

John D. “Johnny” Benson, 80, versatile veteran of half a century in the entertainment industry. A native of St. Paul, Minn., Benson studied drama in New York and performed in plays there. Moving to Hollywood, he found character roles in films and became a stuntman for several major stars. During World War II, he served as a flight instructor for the Royal Canadian Air Force, then joined the U.S. Navy. He returned to Hollywood and bit parts in movies, radio and television. As a stuntman, Benson doubled for the heroine Ingrid Bergman in “Joan of Arc,” Donald O’Connor in “The Buster Keaton Story” and David Niven in “Around the World in 80 Days.” He also performed stunts for Jerry Lewis, Elvis Presley, Fred Astaire, Jack Webb and Tennessee Ernie Ford. Chosen as a contestant on Ralph Edwards’ “Truth or Consequences” television game show, Benson was hired as an escort for contestants performing “consequences” such as driving a golf ball from Los Angeles to Truth or Consequences, N.M. In the 1960s, Benson moved into positions as production manager and assistant director for several television series, including “Starsky and Hutch” and “Wonder Woman.” On April 16 in La Jolla.