Benjamin McKenzie, born Benjamin McKenzie Schenkkan on December 12, 1978 in Austin, Texas, is best known for his roles on popular television shows such as The O.C., Southland, and Gotham. McKenzie's acting career began with his breakout role as Ryan Atwood, a troubled teenager from Chino, California who gets taken in by a wealthy family in the hit series The O.C.
Prior to his acting career, McKenzie was an athlete and even played on the same middle school football team as future Super Bowl MVP, Drew Brees. However, it was his passion for storytelling and the arts that eventually led him to pursue a career in acting.
After gaining recognition for his role on The O.C., McKenzie continued to showcase his acting chops by landing the role of Ben Sherman on the gritty cop drama Southland. His portrayal of the young cop navigating the dangerous streets of Los Angeles earned him critical acclaim and further solidified his reputation as a talented actor.
McKenzie's career continued to flourish when he was cast as a young Detective James Gordon in the dark superhero series Gotham. His portrayal of the iconic character drew praise from fans and critics alike, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Despite his fame, McKenzie has managed to keep a relatively low-profile when it comes to his personal life. He married his Gotham co-star Morena Baccarin in June 2017, and the couple welcomed their first child, daughter Frances Laiz Setta Schenkkan, soon after. In March 2021, they added a son named Arthur to their growing family.
McKenzie's dedication to his craft and his ability to bring complex characters to life on screen have earned him a loyal fan base and critical acclaim. With his impressive body of work and undeniable talent, Benjamin McKenzie continues to solidify his status as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.