Jodi Benson is an American actress and soprano singer, recognized primarily for her iconic role as the voice of Princess Ariel in Disney's beloved animated feature, The Little Mermaid (1989). Her enchanting vocal performance and charismatic interpretation of the character have made her a cherished figure among Disney fans. Beyond her standout role as Ariel, Benson has lent her voice to numerous other characters in various Disney projects, solidifying her legacy in the realm of animation.

Born Jodi Marie Marzorati on October 10, 1961, in Rockford, Illinois, she was raised in a Catholic household that fostered a love for music and the arts. Benson completed her high school education at Boylan Central Catholic High School before furthering her studies at Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois. Her passion for performance became apparent early on, leading her to pursue a career in acting and singing.

Benson's career began to flourish when she joined the Disney family. After voicing Ariel, she reprised the role in the film's sequel, The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea (2000), and the prequel, The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Beginning (2008), as well as the animated television series, The Little Mermaid (1992-1994). Her portrayal of Ariel not only won her acclaim but also garnered her a place in the hearts of many, resulting in her recognition as a "Disney Legend" in 2011 for her contributions to the company.

In addition to her work with Disney, Benson has had a successful career in voice acting across various mediums. She is known for her role as Barbie in the Toy Story franchise, voicing the character in Toy Story 2 (1999), Toy Story 3 (2010), and the short film Hawaiian Vacation (2011). Other notable performances include voicing Weebo in Flubber (1997), taking over the role of Belle in House of Mouse (2001-2003), and portraying Lady in Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp's Adventure (2001). Her versatility also extends to her live-action appearance as Sam in the Disney film Enchanted (2007).

Outside of Disney, Benson has voiced characters in various animated features and television series, such as Tula in The Pirates of Dark Water (1991-1993) and Jane Doe in Camp Lazlo (2005-2008). She also contributed her voice to video games, notably as EVA in the Metal Gear series from 2004 to 2010, performing under the pseudonym Suzetta Miñet.

As of now, Jodi Benson continues to engage with her fans and the entertainment industry, attending conventions and events to celebrate her work. Her enduring legacy in animation and her contributions to the Disney brand remain significant, making her a respected figure in the world of voice acting. She has been married to Ray Benson since May 19, 1984, and together they navigate both personal and professional endeavors with grace and dedication.