Benny Safdie Net Worth

What is Benny Safdie's net worth?

Benny Safdie is an American filmmaker, actor, writer, and producer who has a net worth of $5 million.

Benny Safdie rose to prominence as one half of the Safdie brothers, the directing duo behind the critically acclaimed films "Good Time" and "Uncut Gems." Known for their kinetic style, immersive realism, and morally complex protagonists, the Safdies became leading voices in modern independent cinema during the 2010s. While Benny built his early reputation behind the camera, he has increasingly stepped into the spotlight as a performer, delivering standout acting roles in projects such as "Good Time," "Licorice Pizza," and the television series "The Curse."

Over time, he has evolved into a multifaceted creative force, balancing directing, acting, and producing. In the mid-2020s, Benny began pursuing solo directing efforts, marking a new chapter in his career separate from his brother Josh. With roots deeply embedded in New York's independent film culture, Safdie has helped shape a gritty, high-anxiety filmmaking style that has influenced a new generation of storytellers while also carving out a respected acting career of his own.

Early Life

Benjamin Safdie was born on February 24, 1986, in New York City. He and his older brother, Josh Safdie, were raised between Manhattan and Queens in a film-oriented household. Their father worked in movie exhibition, exposing them to cinema from an early age. Growing up in New York's diverse neighborhoods would later serve as the backdrop and emotional texture for many of their films.

Benny attended Boston University's College of Communication, where he studied film and collaborated closely with Josh on early projects. Their shared passion for storytelling and hands-on filmmaking laid the foundation for what would become one of the most distinctive directing partnerships in independent cinema.

Early Films and Independent Breakthrough

The Safdie brothers first gained attention with low-budget features such as "The Pleasure of Being Robbed" and "Daddy Longlegs." The latter, loosely inspired by their own childhood experiences, earned praise for its raw and intimate portrayal of family dysfunction.

In 2014, they directed "Heaven Knows What," a drama based on the real-life experiences of Arielle Holmes. The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival and was lauded for its unfiltered depiction of addiction and life on the streets of New York. Their approach, often blending professional actors with nonprofessionals, became a signature element of their style.

"Good Time" and Acting Breakthrough

In 2017, Benny Safdie co-directed and co-wrote "Good Time," starring Robert Pattinson. The film premiered in competition at the Cannes Film Festival and elevated the Safdies' international profile. In addition to directing, Benny delivered a memorable on-screen performance as Nick Nikas, the developmentally disabled brother whose arrest sets the story in motion. His portrayal added emotional depth to the film's high-stakes narrative and demonstrated his range as an actor.

Years later, reports surfaced regarding a controversial incident during the production of "Good Time" involving a minor cast member. The allegations, which resurfaced publicly during the 2026 awards season, reportedly contributed to tension between the brothers and ultimately preceded their decision to pursue separate directing projects. Benny has not publicly detailed the internal dynamics but has since moved forward independently.

"Uncut Gems" and Mainstream Acclaim

The Safdies' biggest commercial success arrived with 2019's "Uncut Gems," starring Adam Sandler as a fast-talking jeweler and gambling addict. Released by A24, the film became a box-office success and earned widespread critical acclaim. Though Benny did not appear prominently on-screen in this project, his role as co-director further cemented the brothers' reputation for crafting relentless, anxiety-fueled narratives anchored by transformative performances.

"Uncut Gems" solidified Benny Safdie as a major creative voice in contemporary American filmmaking.

Expanding Acting Career

Following the success of "Good Time" and "Uncut Gems," Benny increasingly embraced acting. He appeared in Paul Thomas Anderson's "Licorice Pizza" and took on a central role in the Showtime series "The Curse," starring opposite Emma Stone and Nathan Fielder. His performances have been praised for their intensity and unpredictability, qualities that mirror the tone of his directorial work.

By the mid-2020s, Benny was recognized not only as a filmmaker but also as a compelling character actor capable of moving between independent cinema and prestige television.

Solo Directing and New Chapter

After years of collaborating with Josh, Benny embarked on solo directing projects, including the sports drama "The Smashing Machine," starring Dwayne Johnson. The film marked a departure from the brothers' tightly wound New York crime stories, signaling Benny's willingness to explore different genres and larger-scale productions.

This shift represented both an evolution and a redefinition of his creative identity. While the Safdie brothers' partnership had been central to his early career, Benny's independent projects demonstrated his capacity to lead major productions on his own.

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