Hollywood actor Jonathan Bennett, famously known for his role in the original “Mean Girls” movie, is set to become the godfather of the Carnival Firenze ship. This ship, the second of Carnival’s Italian-themed vessels acquired from Costa, will be christened on April 24 in Long Beach, Calif., with Bennett taking on the prestigious role.
The Carnival Firenze, weighing in at 130,000 gross tons, will offer Mexican Rivera itineraries and cater to over 5,000 guests. While Bennett is not of Italian descent, his love for cruising is unparalleled. Having previously honeymooned on a Carnival ship, Bennett’s connection to the brand runs deep.
Starting his acting career on the soap opera “All My Children,” Bennett transitioned to the big screen, capturing hearts as Aaron Samuels in “Mean Girls.” His success continued with appearances in Hallmark Channel movies, TV shows such as MTV’s “Copycat” and the Food Network’s “Cake Wars,” and hosting gigs like New York Times Square New Year’s Eve.
Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy personally extended the invitation to Bennett, having witnessed his passion for the brand. Sneaking into one of Bennett’s rehearsals, Duffy caught the emotional moment on video, offering him the opportunity to be the Carnival Firenze’s godfather.
Current Endeavors
In addition to his acting career, Bennett is currently gracing the Broadway stage in the revival of the musical “Spamalot.” Alongside his husband, Jaymes Vaughan, Bennett also launched an LBGTQ+ cruise company in 2021, showcasing his dedication to inclusivity and diversity within the travel industry.
Jonathan Bennett’s latest role as the godfather of the Carnival Firenze ship marks a significant milestone in his career and personal connection to the world of cruising. With a diverse portfolio spanning television, movies, hosting, Broadway, and now cruise ship godfather duties, Bennett continues to showcase his versatility and passion for entertainment.