In Miami, there are people who stand in the spotlight and people who bring a room together quietly from the sidelines. Danny Benavente managed to be both at once. The 42-year-old tragically passed away in the early morning hours of January 1, 2026.
Benavente moved easily between comedy and hospitality, two scenes built on long hours, shared spaces, and a certain emotional endurance. On stage, he leaned into humor that felt conversational and disarming. Off stage, he carried that same energy, the kind that put people at ease, whether they were seasoned comics or first-timers nervous about getting behind the mic.
Most recently, Benavente had put together a live comedy game show called QuipWars that had been building momentum at the Dead Flamingo. The show’s loose, playful format suited him. Whether hosting, producing, or simply steering the energy of the room, QuipWars reflected what he did best: creating space for others to shine.
A Message From The Dead Flamingo
The Dead Flamingo, where Benavente was an operating partner from their opening in early 2024, put out the following message:…