Tom Pelphrey's portrayal of Ben Davis in the third season of Netflix's Ozark left a lasting impression, despite the character's relatively short arc. Ben, the brother of Wendy Byrde, arrives as a substitute teacher with bipolar disorder, quickly becoming entangled in the family's criminal dealings. His moral compass and bond with Ruth Langmore lead him to stop taking his medication, resulting in a series of reckless decisions that ultimately seal his fate.
Pelphrey's performance earned widespread acclaim, with Ben's death—implied off-screen—becoming a pivotal moment in the series. In Season 4, Ben's memory looms large, frequently referenced by other characters. Some fans have speculated that Ben might still be alive, given that his death was never explicitly shown, but the narrative strongly suggests otherwise.
Beyond Ozark, Pelphrey has enjoyed a hot streak in his career. He appeared in David Fincher's Mank, played Ward Meachem in Marvel's Iron Fist, and had a role in Banshee as Kurt Bunker, a former neo-nazi turned police deputy. Upcoming projects include the Amazon Prime series Open Range alongside Josh Brolin, Love and Death with Elizabeth Olsen and Jesse Plemons, and the lead in American Murderer.
Pelphrey's ability to bring depth to complex characters has made him a sought-after actor. His work on Ozark, in particular, showcased his talent for portraying vulnerability and moral conflict, leaving fans eager to see what he does next.
