Benny the Bull - Chicago Bulls Mascot
Who Is Benny the Bull?
Benjamin T. “Benny” Bull is the mascot for the NBA’s Chicago Bulls. He’s held the position of Bull’s mascot for over fifty years. He was named the most popular mascot in sports by Forbes in 2013, voted NBA mascot of the year in 2015, is a twelve-time NBA all-star mascot, and a mascot hall of fame inductee in 2017.
In less than eight months since launching a TikTok account, Benny’s account has grown to 3.3 million followers to become the most followed professional sports TikTok account in North America and the second most followed sports account in the World!
Benny has red fur with large eyes, a tan snout, horns with red tips, orange and pink hair, a long red tail and black gloves with red fur on the back. Benny wears an authentic Bull’s uniform and team-appointed athletic shoes. His jersey bears the name "Benny" above the number "1" on the back.
When Did Benny the Bull Debut?
Benny the Bull debuted back in 1969, making him one of the first mascots in NBA history.
He has become just as popular as some of the franchise's most notable figures, such as players Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, and head coach Phil Jackson!
Who’s Inside Benny the Bull?
Barry Anderson played the role of Benny the Bull for twelve years, retiring in June of 2016.
Da Bull (one of Benny’s cousin) performer, Chester Brewer, was arrested in 2004 for illegally selling marijuana from his car, therefore retiring the Da Bull mascot.
How much does Benny the Bull make?
According to an article on Sportscasting.com, Benny the Bull makes around $200,000 for his act.
Mascot History of Chicago Bulls
Benny the Bull was named after Ben Bentley, the Chicago Bull's first Public Relations Manager and Stadium Announcer. Benny was one of the promotional tools general manager Pat Williams employed to boost the Bulls' arena entertainment and attendance.
Is Benny the Bull the Only Chicago Bull Mascot?
No. Benny the Bull has had many “relatives” throughout the years, including:
Benny’s great grandfather was the first Chicago Bull’s mascot.
Benny’s father was the Bull’s mascot during the wonder years of the Bulls in the 90s.
Da Bull also appeared in the 90s, and was Benny’s cousin, who didn’t have a tail in order to complete acrobatic dunks. Da Bull wore number 95 as he debuted during the 1995 NBA season.
Ben and Benji are two members of the current Benny family and are large inflatable mascots.
Benny the Bull Fun Facts
Benny the Bull has his own podcast called Between Two Horns.
Benny was one of the many secret characters featured in the video game NBA Jam: Tournament Edition.
If you want to send fan mail to Benny or ask for an autograph, he can be reached at benny@bulls.com