Visual History with Terry Benson

Terry Benson, son of Karl Genus, a pioneer in television direction, was brought up in a theatrical family, starting his career as a child actor in stock theater productions. Not knowing what to do after graduating from Yale University, Terry, with the encouragement of his father, reached out to Chester "Chet" O'Brien who later offered him a stage management position at Sesame Street.

Benson is a New York Public Television Stage Manager who worked on local and national programs at WNET-13, including The Metropolitan Opera HD, DuPont Columbia Awards, Carnegie Hall Opening Night, Great Performances, and election coverage. In 2007 he received the DGA's Franklin J. Schaffner Award, given to an Associate Director or Stage Manager in recognition of their service to the industry and the DGA.

Benson has been a regular member of the Eastern AD/SM/PA Council since the early 70's, serving at various times as Chair, 1st Vice-Chair and Secretary-Treasurer. Benson also served on the DGA National Board from 1997-1999, and as shop steward at WNET-13 from 1975-2002.

He has been a member since 1970.