D
orian Bennett, a renowned French Quarter real estate broker and patron of the arts, passed away on August 9, 2025, after a long battle with cancer. He was 72 years old.

    Bennett's career in real estate spanned decades, earning him the reputation as a "broker to the stars." His clients included celebrities such as Taylor Hackford, Helen Mirren, and Jimmy Buffett. Bennett's passion for architecture and the arts led him to restore his own historic office and residence on Bend of Bourbon Street, which earned him a preservation award.

    Born in Hammond, Louisiana, Bennett studied fine arts and Russian history at Tulane University. After brief stints selling insurance and teaching, he entered real estate through a friendship with playwright Tennessee Williams. When Williams passed away in 1983, Bennett was involved in settling his estate, including a house on Dumaine Street, which marked the beginning of his successful career as a broker.

    Bennett's determination to fund his passion for the arts led him to excel in real estate. He combined his business acumen with his love of architecture and the arts, making him a go-to broker not only in the French Quarter but also across the New Orleans metro area. His art collection was diverse and eclectic, featuring everything from unusual to exceptional pieces.

    Despite being diagnosed with glioblastoma, a rare and aggressive brain cancer, Bennett defied medical expectations by surviving for two decades after joining clinical trials at MD Anderson Cancer Center. He continued to travel, particularly to Cuba, which he loved for its arts scene and "frozen in time" quality.

    Bennett is survived by his daughter, Delia; many in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends; and a legacy of supporting the arts through various organizations. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to several art-related foundations in Bennett's name, honoring his love and dedication to the arts.