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You might be surprised to see a profile of AJ Benza on benzxentry.store, especially if you’re familiar with his outspoken and sometimes controversial views. However, after a compelling conversation with Benza, who jokingly refers to himself as the “Forrest Gump” of the entertainment scandal world, it became clear why his insights are captivating. Despite any potential political differences, a mutual fascination with the world of celebrity and entertainment scandals forged a connection, leading to an intriguing discussion that even touched lightly on politics without any major disagreements.
AJ Benza is a figure many may recognize from his early career writing for Newsday and the New York Daily News. He later became a prominent face on television, hosting E!’s The Gossip Show and Mysteries and Scandals. During the golden age of daytime talk shows, AJ Benza was a frequent guest, known for his sharp wit and insider knowledge. Some might even recall AJ Benza’s appearances on Howard Stern’s show, encounters that were not always smooth sailing.
Today, AJ Benza continues to share his take on Hollywood scandals through his popular podcast, Fame is a Bitch. This title, also the name of his 2001 book, is derived from his famous catchphrase on Mysteries and Scandals: “Fame, ain’t it a bitch.” In 2015, he added to his literary work with another book, ’74 and Sunny.
Intrigued by the Fame is a Bitch podcast, we reached out to AJ Benza for an in-depth conversation. What follows is our exclusive interview:
AJ Benza today
AJ Benza today, a seasoned entertainment journalist, hosts the “Fame is a Bitch” podcast, delving into Hollywood scandals with his unique insider perspective.
Let’s start with the podcast, ‘Fame is a Bitch.’ What was the inspiration behind it?
It might sound unbelievable, but my life has been intertwined with Hollywood scandals simply through my network of contacts. Living in LA for a long time, you become defined by your associations. I became known as the guy who delves into celebrity controversies, especially those involving deceased celebrities.
People would approach me with inside information. This was similar to my experiences with Mysteries and Scandals and shows for the Reelz channel, like Demons in the City of Angels, which focused on LA stories. It’s like the ‘Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon’ game; I often find myself connected to people in the news, whether through past relationships or interviews, and just knowing the Hollywood scene intimately. Although I’m now based on the West Coast, my New York upbringing also plays a role.
I feel like AJ Benza, the Forrest Gump of the scandalous entertainment world. I utilize my personal interactions and knowledge to inform my reporting. These connections fuel my passion to investigate these stories thoroughly. Having been a reporter since 1982, I now combine my experience and personal connections to explore these topics with genuine enthusiasm.
The podcast materialized after reconnecting with Michael Agovino, a childhood friend from little league. Mike, who was starting a podcast company, suggested we collaborate. Having lost touch over the years, he was unaware of my extensive collection of stories and was amazed by some of the relationships I had formed. I can easily cover a different scandal each week. We started with Tupac Shakur, as I had known him personally years ago. From there, we moved to other figures like Hugh Hefner.
On Heather McDonald’s ‘Juicy Scoop’ podcast, you mentioned knowing Harvey Weinstein personally.
The surge in sex scandal stories, particularly with the Harvey Weinstein case, has become a major focus for my podcast. Knowing Harvey Weinstein personally, I was initially shocked by the allegations, despite his reputation for being tough and even a bully. Harvey had approached me early on, concerned about a story, but I never imagined the scale and severity of the accusations.
I knew a significant story was developing against him, but the specific details were not disclosed to me. New York Magazine was reportedly planning a damaging piece before Ronan Farrow’s article in The New Yorker. The New York Magazine story was suppressed, and Harvey also managed to bury a tape with the NYPD early on. Power and connections often play a role. In the past, a barter system existed in gossip journalism: ‘If you don’t publish this, I’ll give you three other exclusive stories.’ Political affiliations and power dynamics were also involved. While these practices still occur, they ultimately failed Harvey. His long-standing power and connections couldn’t contain the sheer volume of stories. Eventually, even the strongest protections crumble under the weight of overwhelming evidence.
It seems unlikely, but I must ask: Do you believe Harvey Weinstein can make a comeback?
A Harvey Weinstein comeback seems improbable, yet he insists all encounters were consensual and doesn’t appear deeply remorseful about some of the allegations. He likely has well-paid advisors providing reassurance. Personally, I would be much more concerned in his position! He seems to believe the truth about consensual encounters will emerge.
However, in Hollywood, money talks. If Harvey Weinstein possesses the script for the next Pulp Fiction, many would still work with him. I wouldn’t entirely dismiss the possibility of his return. While the allegations are numerous and credible, suggesting significant wrongdoing and shame, if criminal trials and imprisonment are avoided, a comeback, though perhaps not immediate, isn’t impossible. This town is so unpredictable; I wouldn’t be surprised to see a movie with his name attached by 2030.
Beyond the #MeToo movement, are there other types of stories you are particularly eager to explore on your podcast?
The #MeToo movement deeply fascinates me, and I’m curious about its future trajectory. I instinctively believe women are telling the truth in these situations; it’s not something anyone would willingly fabricate. As a journalist and a man, I lean towards trusting these accounts. However, the journalist in me also considers the importance of balance. I sometimes ponder if any of these stories might be exaggerated. Many of the accused men are undoubtedly reprehensible, but the concept of fairness and complete accuracy is always on my mind. I’m keen to see the evolution of the #MeToo movement.
Another area of interest is the hidden history of pedophilia. I feel compelled to investigate the extent of its truth and potential exaggerations. I sometimes worry about casting too wide a net, which can be dangerous. Careful investigation is crucial to avoid harming innocent individuals.
You’ve mentioned your active dating life in your younger years. Are you ever concerned about potential claims emerging from your single days in light of the #MeToo movement?
I was single and dated extensively for many years, but I have no concerns. My relationships were always consensual, and I treated women with respect. Growing up with sisters likely instilled in me a certain sensitivity. If the #MeToo movement had emerged 15 years earlier, my concerns might have been about being overly loud, obnoxious, or flirting inappropriately. Now, being married for 14 years and coaching little league, I’m far removed from that world.
What do your children think about their dad knowing so many famous people? I understand you personally know Donald Trump.
That’s why I often tell my kids, echoing my ‘Forrest Gump’ analogy, ‘Yes, kids, your dad knew Winona Ryder, who you watch in Stranger Things. And yes, Dad used to date Mariah Carey.’
Interestingly, my son was more impressed by Rocky Balboa, Stallone, and Schwarzenegger, especially because 36 Mafia composed songs for their movie, and he was excited to meet those rappers.
Conversely, when I mention knowing figures like John Gotti from my time as a reporter in New York, covering his trial for Newsday where we developed a professional rapport, I think my son is less impressed.
Have you ever felt threatened or intimidated due to your connections or the information you possess?
Threatened? No. But I have experienced disappointment. During my time at the New York Daily News, journalistic integrity was paramount. In the pre-internet era, rigorous vetting was standard. Editors and lawyers meticulously reviewed articles. Mistakes brought guilt and sleepless nights. While not fearful, I’ve been around intimidating individuals, which ironically has made me more discerning about who not to fear.
My long career and perhaps a ‘tough guy’ persona might deter people from targeting me compared to less experienced individuals. I dislike bullies, and if I’ve mislabeled someone as such, I’m open to dialogue, correction, and issuing a follow-up to exonerate them. Admitting error is crucial, especially now, when being first often overshadows being accurate.
Can you give readers a preview of upcoming topics on ‘Fame is a Bitch’?
I plan to delve into Matt Lauer and the Today Show scandal, as well as the #TimesUp movement and female empowerment in Hollywood.
Additionally, I want to explore Corey Feldman and Corey Haim’s mother’s perspectives. Corey Feldman has made numerous claims, and Corey Haim’s mother wants to clarify her son’s upbringing and her knowledge of events, addressing questions raised by Corey Feldman’s statements.
Further Weinstein coverage is also planned. Beyond that, I’m interested in scandals from 80s and 90s TV show sets. Rumors of rampant on-set sexual activity among teen idols during that era have circulated. While some careers remained unscathed, I believe closer scrutiny is coming. This could be a major upcoming scandal as individuals come forward with stories of past misconduct by heartthrobs who have thus far faced no repercussions.
Addressing the elephant in the room: As a liberal interviewer, and knowing you voted for Donald Trump, should I advise my liberal listeners to skip the political segments on your podcast?
Although I voted for Trump, I have been critical of him on my podcast and publicly call out decisions I disagree with. My personal knowledge of him informs my critiques. I still communicate my concerns to him directly, and on occasion, he has acknowledged my points, appreciating my perspective, which is perhaps the most one can expect. He’s a confident man unlikely to admit outright error, but he might concede that an idea isn’t ‘100 percent wrong.’
I maintain a good relationship with Bill Maher, demonstrating my ability to engage with liberals, though some listeners may occasionally disagree with my viewpoints. Despite being labeled ‘conservative,’ I have been critical of Trump and maintained a balanced perspective.
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Before his presidential win, I even questioned him, ‘Are you serious about this? How many good summers do you have left?’ He replied, ‘At least 30.’ He thinks big. I asked, ‘Why spend the next four years away from what you love?’ He responded, ‘I love America and want to fix things.’
I acknowledge his gross comments about women and the Access Hollywood tapes, which ties into the #MeToo conversation. It’s crucial to share these stories because the current upheaval feels like labor pains. There’s present agony and pain, but it will lead to positive change. A paradigm shift is occurring, and workplace and societal behaviors will fundamentally change within a decade. We are experiencing a national transformation that will lead to evolution and significant behavioral shifts.
Listen to AJ Benza’s “Fame is a Bitch” podcast, available on major platforms.
