John Travolta & Kelly Preston’s Son Runs Off From First TV Debut

While most Hollywood kids are no strangers to the camera, John Travolta and Kelly Preston’s four-year-old son Benjamin doesn’t seem comfortable being in front of it. Having big Hollywood celebrities for parents, Ben is expected to be a natural on his television debut. However, it feels like Travolta and Preston’s preschooler still needs a little getting used to.

In a recent airing of Late Show with David Letterman, Travolta attempted to introduce his son to the limelight. What happened next came as a bit of a surprise.

During the interview, Travolta related about an incident that happened to him and Ben while they were shopping in Toys ‘R’ Us. Apparently, the four-year-old observed that other people inside the store were trying to take a snap of him and his celebrity dad. Wondering, little Ben asked his father why all these people were “wanting to take” his photograph.

“I didn’t know if he knew I was in films or not,” Travolta shared. It turns out little Ben wasn’t so innocent after all. He knew who his dad was and according to Travolta, Ben said, “Well maybe they saw one of your movies.”

Ben even told his father, “I want to work with you.” After sharing this story, Travolta then told Letterman if his son can “come by and say hi” if the host would allow him to.

Although Travolta suggested that Ben make an appearance later in the show, Letterman quickly responded, “Bring him out now! Where’s the kid? Bring the kid out.” The camera then showed Preston carrying Ben and making their way out of the back stage to join Travolta and Letterman’s interview.

As Preston arrived on the side of the front stage, Ben was clearly hesitant. He wouldn’t let go of his mommy and even pointed his finger to the backstage, signaling Preston to go and take him back. Letterman tried to approach the little tyke but as soon as he reached Preston, Ben had already run off from making his television debut. The show’s host just laughed it off.

Letterman then followed Preston and Ben back stage where the four-year-old can be seen watching the show from a screen. The host tried talking to Ben saying, “Hi, Ben! What a good looking kid.” Ben however refused to respond and join the host and his father on stage.

Travolta and Preston were also joined by their 15-year-old daughter Ella during the show.

[Photo by Mike Windle/Getty Images for AACTA]