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John Bennett Perry

John Bennett Perry is an American retired actor, singer, and former model, born in Williamstown, Massachusetts, in 1941.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

John Bennett Perry is an American retired actor, singer, and former model, born in Williamstown, Massachusetts, in 1941. He is known for film, television, stage, and commercial work, including his role as the Old Spice sailor in television advertising. He is the father of actor Matthew Perry.

Early life

John Bennett Perry was born on January 4, 1941, in Williamstown, Massachusetts, United States. Available sources identify him as American and note early musical and modelling work before his acting career.

Acting career

Perry worked in theatre, film, and television over several decades. Credits listed by major entertainment databases and profiles include roles in Falcon Crest, Providence, Air America, Fools Rush In, George of the Jungle, and Independence Day. His years active are commonly listed as 1967–2011.

Commercial recognition

He became especially familiar to American audiences through Old Spice advertising, where he played the brand’s sailor character during the 1970s and 1980s.

Family

John Bennett Perry is the father of actor Matthew Perry. Sources also mention another child, Mia, and marriages to Suzanne Langford and Debbie Boyle.

Key facts

  • John Bennett Perry is an American retired actor, singer, and former model.
  • He was born on January 4, 1941, in Williamstown, Massachusetts.
  • He is best known for portraying the Old Spice sailor in television commercials.
  • His screen credits include Falcon Crest, Providence, and Independence Day.
  • He is the father of actor Matthew Perry.

Frequently asked questions

Who is John Bennett Perry?
He is an American retired actor, singer, and former model known for film, television, stage, and commercial work.
What is John Bennett Perry best known for?
He is widely remembered for portraying the Old Spice sailor in television commercials.
When was John Bennett Perry born?
He was born on January 4, 1941.
Where was John Bennett Perry born?
He was born in Williamstown, Massachusetts, United States.
Is John Bennett Perry related to Matthew Perry?
Yes. He is Matthew Perry’s father.
What kind of work did he do besides acting?
He also worked as a singer and former model, and some sources note musical performance with groups such as the Ojai Valley Boys.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Bennett_Perry
    Supports: Birth date, occupation, years active, and parent-child relationship with Matthew Perry.
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0675134/bio/
    Supports: Birth place, career overview, commercial work, awards, and family details.
  3. Los Angeles Theatre Works — https://latw.org/artist-public-profile/john-bennett-perry
    Supports: Stage credits, film and television career highlights, and biographical overview.
  4. Fandango — https://www.fandango.com/people/john-bennett-perry-528347/biography
    Supports: Old Spice recognition, career highlights, and film and television credits.
  5. Encyclopedia.com — https://www.encyclopedia.com/education/news-wires-white-papers-and-books/perry-john-bennett-1941
    Supports: Birth details, marriages, children, and commercial/music work.