Benny Safdie is an American filmmaker, actor, screenwriter, and editor best known for his work as part of the Safdie Brothers filmmaking duo. He rose to prominence through critically acclaimed films such as Good Time and Uncut Gems, and later gained widespread recognition as an actor with roles in Licorice Pizza, Oppenheimer, and the television series The Curse. As of 2026, Safdie remains one of the most influential figures in contemporary independent cinema.
Quick Profile
- Full Name: Benjamin Safdie
- Profession: Filmmaker, Actor, Screenwriter, Editor
- Genres: Independent film, Crime, Psychological drama
- Date of Birth: February 24, 1986
- Age: 40 years old (as of 2026)
- Height: Approximately 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm)
- Place of Birth: New York City, United States
- Nationality: American
- Ethnicity: Jewish-American
- Years Active: 2007–present
- Net Worth: $10–15 million (estimated)
Family Background
Benny Safdie was born into a culturally diverse Jewish family in New York City. His father comes from Sephardic and Syrian Jewish heritage, while his mother is of Ashkenazi Jewish descent.
Growing up in a creative and intellectually engaged household played a significant role in shaping his artistic interests.
- Father: Alberto Safdie (architect)
- Mother: Amy Safdie (educator)
- Siblings: Josh Safdie (brother, filmmaker)
Early Life
Safdie grew up between Queens and Manhattan, absorbing the rhythm and intensity of New York City.
From a young age, he developed a fascination with storytelling, often experimenting with cameras and short films inspired by real-life encounters and street-level experiences.
He later attended Boston University’s College of Communication, where he studied film theory and criticism.
His education helped refine a cinematic style rooted in realism, urgency, and emotional authenticity.
Parents, Siblings, and Early Family Life
Benny’s closest early influence was his brother Josh Safdie. The two collaborated creatively from a young age, sharing interests in cinema, editing, and storytelling.
Their partnership eventually evolved into one of the most recognizable creative duos in modern independent film.
- Brother: Josh Safdie — longtime collaborator
- Family Influence: Strong emphasis on art, cinema, and independent thinking
Filmmaking Career & Industry Entry
Benny Safdie entered the film industry through low-budget independent projects, often writing, directing, editing, and acting in his own films. Early festival success helped establish his reputation for high-intensity narratives and unconventional storytelling.
His major breakthrough came with Good Time (2017), followed by Uncut Gems (2019), both of which received international acclaim and positioned him as a defining voice in modern American cinema.
Studio & Feature Films (Director / Writer)
- Heaven Knows What (2014): Gritty independent drama inspired by real-life stories.
- Good Time (2017): Crime thriller starring Robert Pattinson.
- Uncut Gems (2019): High-stakes psychological drama starring Adam Sandler.
- The Smashing Machine (2025): Solo directorial project exploring combat-sports culture.
Acting Career
Alongside directing, Safdie has built a respected acting career, often appearing in auteur-driven projects. His performances are marked by restraint, intensity, and psychological depth.
- Licorice Pizza (2021) — Joel Wachs
- Oppenheimer (2023) — Edward Teller
- The Curse (2023) — Dougie
Personal Life
Benny Safdie is married and a father. He keeps his personal and family life largely private, choosing to focus public attention on his creative work.
- Marital Status: Married
- Spouse: Ava Safdie
- Children: Two sons
Social Media Presence
- Instagram: @bowedtie
- X (Twitter): Not publicly active
- Other Platforms: No confirmed public accounts
Trivia & Facts
- Often edits his own films to maintain creative control.
- Frequently appears in films he directs or produces.
- Known for encouraging improvisation during filming.
- Regularly collaborates with his brother Josh Safdie.
FAQs
How old is Benny Safdie?
He is 40 years old as of 2026.
Is Benny Safdie married?
Yes, he is married to Ava Safdie.
Does Benny Safdie have children?
Yes, he has two sons.
What is Benny Safdie best known for?
He is best known for co-directing Uncut Gems and acting in Oppenheimer.
Is Benny Safdie active on social media?
Yes, he uses Instagram under the handle @bowedtie.
