Where Is Beni Now? 5 Shocking New Roles For Kevin J. O’Connor, The Actor Who Played The Mummy’s Traitor

The character of Beni Gabor is one of the most memorable villains in modern adventure cinema, a spineless yet strangely enduring traitor whose final scene in 1999’s *The Mummy* remains iconic. For years, fans have wondered about the actor behind the sniveling henchman, Kevin J. O’Connor, and what he has been doing since his famous encounter with Imhotep. As of late 2025, O'Connor has quietly built a fascinating and diverse career, moving from big-budget blockbusters to critically acclaimed prestige television and films, proving he is one of Hollywood’s most reliable character actors. His recent work has put him back in the spotlight, especially with the buzz surrounding a potential return to the franchise that made him famous. This article dives into the current life and career of Kevin J. O'Connor, exploring his most recent projects, his enduring legacy as Beni, and the latest, most exciting rumors about a potential return to the world of Egyptian curses and adventure.

The Treacherous Traitor: Kevin J. O’Connor’s Complete Biography and Profile

Kevin James O’Connor is a prolific American character actor known for his intense, often quirky performances across film and television. While many know him as Beni Gabor, his career spans decades and includes collaborations with some of the most celebrated directors in the industry.

• Full Name: Kevin James O’Connor
• Date of Birth: November 15, 1963
• Age (as of 2025): 62 years old
• Place of Birth: Chicago, Illinois, USA
• Career Start: O'Connor began his career in the mid-1980s, first gaining notice in the film *Peggy Sue Got Married* (1986).
• Breakthrough Role: His role as the mysterious, quipping private investigator in *F/X2* (1991) established him as a versatile character player.
• Most Famous Roles: Beni Gabor in *The Mummy* (1999), Igor in *Van Helsing* (2004), and Eli Sunday's brother, Henry, in *There Will Be Blood* (2007).
• Notable Collaborations: He has worked multiple times with director Stephen Sommers (*The Mummy*, *Deep Rising*, *Van Helsing*) and Paul Thomas Anderson (*There Will Be Blood*).
• Acting Style: O'Connor is celebrated for his ability to play nervous, often morally ambiguous characters—the perfect cinematic henchman or quirky sidekick.

From Imhotep's Servant to Oscar-Worthy Dramas: O’Connor’s Most Recent and Surprising Roles

While the 1999 classic *The Mummy* will forever be a highlight, Kevin J. O'Connor has not stopped working. In recent years, he has taken on roles that showcase his range, moving away from the comedic villainy of Beni and into more dramatic and prestige territory. His recent filmography highlights a continued relevance in Hollywood's most acclaimed projects.

1. The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (2023)

One of O'Connor’s most recent and high-profile roles was in the fifth and final season of the Emmy-winning Amazon series, *The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel*. Appearing in the critically acclaimed final season, O'Connor demonstrated his ability to pivot seamlessly into the world of period dramedy. While the role was not a lead, his appearance in a major 2023 streaming series confirms his status as a sought-after actor for top-tier television. This is a significant shift from the large-scale action-adventure films he is typically known for.

2. The Eyes of Tammy Faye (2021)

In 2021, O'Connor appeared in the biographical drama *The Eyes of Tammy Faye*, which earned Jessica Chastain an Academy Award for Best Actress. The film chronicled the rise and fall of televangelists Tammy Faye and Jim Bakker. O'Connor took on the role of a PTL Crew member, contributing to the ensemble cast of a film that was lauded for its powerful performances and detailed historical portrayal. This role further solidifies his work in serious, character-driven projects.

3. Captive State (2019)

In the science fiction thriller *Captive State*, O’Connor returned to the world of genre film, but with a more grounded, political edge. The film, set in a Chicago neighborhood a decade after an alien occupation, allowed O'Connor to explore a grittier, more intense dramatic role, contrasting sharply with the light-hearted tone of *The Mummy*.

4. On Becoming a God in Central Florida (2019)

O'Connor had a recurring role in the dark comedy series *On Becoming a God in Central Florida*, starring Kirsten Dunst. The show, which followed a minimum-wage water park employee who schemes her way up a cult-like multi-level marketing company, was a critical darling. His role in this series allowed him to utilize his talent for playing slightly unhinged and ambitious characters, a thematic echo of Beni Gabor but within a modern, satirical framework.

5. There Will Be Blood (2007)

Though not a recent role, his performance as Henry, the man who claims to be the brother of Daniel Day-Lewis's character, Daniel Plainview, in Paul Thomas Anderson’s *There Will Be Blood* remains a critical benchmark. The complexity and ambiguity O'Connor brought to the character earned him high praise and firmly established him as an actor who can hold his own against cinematic heavyweights. This role is often cited as a key example of his dramatic depth.

The Burning Question: Will Kevin J. O’Connor Return as Beni in The Mummy 4?

The most exciting and persistent rumor for fans of the original 1999 film is the potential return of both Brendan Fraser as Rick O’Connell and Kevin J. O’Connor as Beni Gabor in a fourth *Mummy* installment. The speculation surrounding *The Mummy 4* has gained significant traction in recent years, largely due to the "Brenaissance"—the career resurgence of Brendan Fraser, which culminated in his Oscar win for *The Whale*. As Fraser has openly expressed interest in returning to the role of Rick O'Connell, fan excitement has naturally extended to his most memorable on-screen nemesis. While no official studio confirmation has been made regarding a sequel, the fan community has been abuzz with reports and rumors suggesting that O'Connor is being considered to reprise his role. The enduring popularity of Beni, whose fate was left ambiguous (though certainly dire) at the end of the first film, makes his potential return a major talking point. The character of Beni Gabor is synonymous with the original film's success, providing the perfect blend of villainy and comic relief. The idea of Rick O'Connell and Beni Gabor—now older and potentially wiser—reuniting for another treasure hunt is a deeply appealing prospect for fans who cherish the chemistry between Fraser and O'Connor. While the news remains in the realm of fan speculation and unconfirmed reports, the sheer volume of discussion indicates that if a sequel were to happen, Kevin J. O’Connor’s return would be a non-negotiable requirement for the franchise's loyal fanbase. Until an official announcement arrives, fans can enjoy his recent, versatile work across television and film, confirming that the actor behind the iconic traitor is still thriving.