John Bentley A Visionary Entrepreneur, Media Pioneer, and Storyteller

A Life of Innovation, Adventure, and Creativity

John Bentley’s life is a remarkable tale of entrepreneurial success, creative ingenuity, and a relentless pursuit of adventure. Born on February 19, 1940, in Hove, England, to wealthy, self-made parents, Bentley’s journey from a Harrow School student to a pioneer in media, technology, and storytelling is nothing short of extraordinary.

John Bentley’s journey spans groundbreaking achievements in media, technology, and storytelling, from pioneering Internet TV to producing films and writing novels, all while embracing risk, adventure, and boundless creativity.

Bentley’s formative years at Harrow School were marked by challenges, including the divorce of his parents and a burst appendix, which led to him being held back a year. Despite these setbacks, he excelled in history and English, captained the school’s shooting team, and boxed competitively. However, he found the rigid academic structure limiting, leaving him yearning for practical knowledge in science and economics. At 17, following his father’s death, Bentley left school, emigrating to Australia as a “£10 Pommie” to start a new chapter.

Reflecting on his early years, Bentley credits Harrow with instilling self-discipline and teaching him to respect individuals for their character rather than their rank or title. These lessons would become guiding principles throughout his life.

A Meteoric Rise in Business

Bentley’s entrepreneurial journey began in 1962 when, at just 22, he started a small business selling advertising space in launderettes. By 29, he was the CEO of Mills & Allen, the UK’s largest outdoor advertising group, controlling 75% of the country’s billboards through his creation of British Posters. His business acumen led to a series of high-profile acquisitions, including Dorland Advertising Agency, Pearl & Dean Cinema Advertising, British Lion Films, and Shepperton Studios, where he produced films such as The Wicker Man.

In 1973, after a failed bid to acquire the Daily Express, Bentley sold his businesses to Hambros Bank, marking the end of a remarkable chapter in media and advertising.

Pioneering Media and Technology

Bentley’s innovative spirit didn’t stop there. In 1980, he founded Intervision, the world’s first video rental company, which he sold in 1985 before embarking on a multi-year sailing adventure around the world. His most groundbreaking achievement came in 1996 when he launched Viewcall, the world’s first commercial Internet TV and a precursor to modern streaming platforms. This invention earned him the moniker “Mr. Internet TV” and solidified his legacy as a tech pioneer.

A Life of Creativity and Reflection

Beyond his business ventures, Bentley has always been a storyteller at heart. His novel, The Royal Secret, intertwines historical facts about Francis Bacon—whom Bentley believes to be the true author of Shakespeare’s works—with a fictional narrative exploring themes of genius, love, power, and the union of science and spirituality. The book reflects Bentley’s fascination with Bacon’s life, a polymath and scientist who he feels a deep personal connection to.

Currently, Bentley is working on his memoirs, chronicling a life filled with innovation, risk-taking, and adventure. His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs and dreamers is simple yet profound: “Imagination and ingenuity. There are always new frontiers. Make life an adventure. Take risks. Do what you believe. Don’t get dispirited. Beware thieves. ‘Knowledge is Power,’ as Francis Bacon said. Communication and data are knowledge.”

Personal Life and Legacy

Bentley’s personal life has been as eventful as his career. He has been married multiple times and has lived in various countries, including the UK, the US, Portugal, and France. Along the way, he has rubbed shoulders with British royalty and entertainment icons such as Prince Charles, Princess Margaret, Peter Sellers, Roger Moore, and Joan Collins.

Despite his many achievements, Bentley remains grounded, attributing his success to self-discipline, creativity, and a willingness to take risks. His life is a testament to the power of perseverance and the endless possibilities that come with embracing change and innovation.

A Life Well Lived

John Bentley’s life is a masterclass in reinvention and resilience. From his early days as a stockbroker’s clerk to becoming a trailblazer in media and technology, Bentley has consistently pushed boundaries and embraced new challenges. His story is not just one of success but of a relentless quest for knowledge, creativity, and adventure—a legacy that will inspire generations to come.

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