Real Name: Benjamin McKenzie Schenkkan Parents: Pete & Frances Schenkkan Age: 24 Born: Sept. 12, 1978 in Austin TX Star Sign:   Virgo Education: Austin High, graduated 1997; University of Virginia in 2001 where he majored in Foreign Affairs and Economics Marital Status: Single Home: Has an apartment in Santa Monica What he Drives: New Infiniti G35 Benjamin McKenzie is the son of Austin attorney Pete Schenkkan and poet-writer Frances Schenkkan. He was born in Austin TX. Benjamin McKenzie at the age of 24 plays the 17 year Ryan Atwood on the new Fox TV show, "The OC." When asked what he was like in high school he says "I've always been kind of a loner and continue to be. So, in that sense, Ryan and I are the same. I played football in Texas, but I didn't really hang out with the jocks. I did honors courses, but I didn't hang out with those kids, either. I sort of had my own group I hung with occasionally, but I've always been kind of by myself." He earned a degree in foreign affairs and economics at the University of Virginia. Worked as an intern in U.S. House Rep. Lloyd Doggett's office. He then moved to New York to pursue a career in acting. He got his start in the off-Broadway production of "Life is a Dream." After the September 11th attacks he decided to move to L.A.
Once in Los Angeles, he paid his rent by waiting tables and went on auditions. A year and six days after he arrived in Los Angeles, he was cast in The O.C. Although he knew a TV gig was a good opportunity, he considered passing on the job but sought the advice of his uncle first. Fortunately, his uncle is screenwriter Robert Schenkkan (The Quiet American) and the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright of The Kentucky Cycle. Benjamin McKenzie has also made guest appearances on "JAG" and "The District."