By Karen James
Elizabeth Benson, widely known as ‘Liz Benson,’ is a name that resonates with Nigerian cinema enthusiasts. Born on April 5, 1966, in Etinan, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, Benson has captivated audiences with her talent, charm, and remarkable performances. Not only is she a celebrated actress, but she is also a television personality and philanthropist.
Benson’s love for acting began at a tender age of 5. She nurtured this passion by obtaining a degree in Dramatic Arts from Sylvania State College in the United States of America. Her talent and dedication soon caught the attention of the entertainment industry, leading to her breakthrough role in the television soap opera, “Fortunes,” where she portrayed the character of Mrs. Agnes Johnson from 1993 to 1995.
However, it was her role in the 1994 film “Glamour Girls” that catapulted Benson to new heights of fame. The film addressed the controversial theme of escorting and showcased Benson’s exceptional acting skills, solidifying her position as a prominent figure in Nigerian cinema.
In a surprising turn of events, Benson took an unexpected hiatus from acting in 1996. She resurfaced in the Nigerian film industry, or Nollywood, with a renewed purpose. It was revealed that she had experienced a spiritual transformation, becoming a born-again Christian and dedicating herself to full-time gospel preaching.
In addition to her acting career, Benson has also experienced personal tragedies and triumphs. In her mid-twenties, she suffered the loss of her first husband, Samuel Gabriel Etim. However, she found love again and remarried in a small court ceremony in Abuja in 2009. Her husband is a Bishop, and together, they oversee the Freedom Family Assembly Ministry.
Throughout her illustrious career, Liz Benson has left an indelible mark on Nollywood. She has appeared in a multitude of films, showcasing her versatility and captivating audiences with her performances. Some of her notable works include “Evil Men 1 and 2,” “Shame,” “Conspiracy,” “Izaga,” “Burden,” “Stolen Child,” “Faces,” “Dead End,” “Tycoon,” and “Glamour Girls,” among many others. Her recent contributions to the industry include films like “Still Falling” (2021), “Lotanna” (2017), “Children of Mud” (2017), “Lizard Life” (2017), “Hilarious Hilary” (2015), and “Dearest Mummy” (2015).
As fans celebrate the remarkable life and career of Liz Benson, it is clear that her talent and dedication have left an indelible mark on the Nigerian entertainment industry. Her versatility, authenticity, and passion for her craft have endeared her to audiences across the nation. From her breakout roles in iconic films to her philanthropic endeavors, Liz Benson’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of actors and actresses in Nigeria and beyond.
