7 Reasons Why Rob Benedict is the Greatest Celebrity You’ll Ever Meet
In honor of his 50th birthday
Over the last seven years, I have attended numerous different fan conventions. I’ve met over 100 celebrities, but none of them have given me as many memories to cherish as Rob Benedict has. Some of you might know him from films like Waiting (and its sequel) or Not Another Teen Movie, but I first encountered him via a tv show called Supernatural.
Today is Rob’s 50th birthday. I thought, “what better way to celebrate than by extolling his virtues to the rest of the world?”
To that end, I give you the following seven reasons why Rob Benedict is a celebrity who is just a cut above the rest:
1. Kindness
You will not find a kinder man than Rob Benedict in my experience. He treats every single fan that he meets like they are the most special person in the room. He takes the time to show his fans that he cares. He goes out of his way to make sure that we know we are loved. His entire face lights up when he sees someone that he recognizes. Even when he meets someone for the first time, he is always enthusiastic and happy about the encounter. Not every celeb is as gracious as he is with their time.
I have not talked to a single person who has met Rob that walked away without falling at least a little in love. It’s impossible not to like him once you’ve met him in person.
2. Hugs!
I’ve always maintained that Rob Benedict hugs have healing powers. His hugs are just so warm and comforting. He wraps his arms around you and squeezes you so tightly. You just can’t help but feel totally safe in his embrace. No Supernatural convention is complete for me without getting at least one Rob hug (usually many more though). Unfortunately, COVID-19 has put a stop to that for the moment. Hopefully, in the future, there will be many more Rob hugs to come.
3. Musical Talent
Not only is Rob an accomplished actor, but he is also the lead singer of a band called Louden Swain. Along with his band-mates Stephen Norton (drums/percussion), Michael Borja (bass guitar/keyboards), and Billy Moran (guitar), Rob spearheads the musical activities at every Supernatural con. The band plays throughout the con weekend, introducing guests for each panel and playing them off stage when they are finished. They also host a Saturday Night Special concert in which magic happens every single time. There is nothing quite like the atmosphere of the SNS.
Rob’s song lyrics often resonate deeply with me. I have many Swain songs that I hold dear to my heart. Their music gets me through the tough times — it gives me something to hold onto. Plus, Rob has a fabulous voice.
This is always one of my favorite videos to revisit because it was the first time I’d ever heard him sing. Talk about a first impression!
4. Strength
In 2013, Rob suffered a stroke while attending a Supernatural convention in Toronto, Canada — which also happened to be my first ever convention. Thankfully, he was able to get help relatively quickly and has since made a full recovery. Over the intervening years, Rob has become a strong advocate for stroke awareness. He has helped raise funds for stroke charities and has even inspired many fans (myself included) to become strong advocates themselves. He has used his experience to enlighten others, and I admire him greatly for that.
5. Mental Health Awareness
Over the years, Rob has been very vocal about his struggles with anxiety and depression. He makes it known in no uncertain terms that it’s okay to be dealing with these things, and it’s also okay to ask for help. Rob has helped so many people come to terms with their own similar struggles, and he probably isn’t even aware. He has done a lot of good for a lot of people.
6. Humor
Rob used to perform stand up comedy, so it’s no wonder the man has a great sense of humor. He is genuinely funny. Get him together with his friend and con co-host, Richard Speight Jr., and you’ll be in stitches the entire time. In fact, the duo has recently started a new podcast together called Kings of Con. Give it a listen if you want to hear some fun banter.
7. His Smile!
Rob is one of those people whose smile just lights up the entire room. It’s also contagious — you can’t help but smile in return. Seriously, look at the evidence below!
Words will never adequately describe what it’s like to meet Rob Benedict and walk away as a changed person. It’s kind of just something you have to experience for yourself.
Rob, if you happen to be reading this, thank you for everything you’ve done over the years. You have left a lasting impression on me, to say the least. I hope we get to meet again someday soon.
Until then, Happy Birthday! I hope your day is as wonderful as you are.
