Joe Camp, 'Benji' Franchise Creator, Dies at 84

The filmmaker passed away following a long illness, leaving behind a legacy of beloved animal films and charitable work.

Joe Camp, the creative force behind the Benji franchise, has died at 84 after a long illness.
Camp had no prior Hollywood experience before raising $500,000 to make the first Benji film, which became a major success.
The Benji series, starting in 1974, spawned multiple movies, TV shows, and a Netflix reboot, grossing an estimated $600 million adjusted for inflation.
Beyond his film career, Camp was a dedicated animal lover, author, and served on the board of several charities and schools.
Camp is survived by his wife, Kathleen; two sons, Joe and Brandon; and stepchildren David, Dylan, and Allegra.