Ben Hawkins is a fictional character from the television series Carnivàle, which aired on HBO from 2003 to 2005. He is portrayed by actor Nick Stahl and serves as the main protagonist of the show. Set during the Great Depression, Ben is a young man with mysterious powers who joins a traveling carnival. Throughout the series, Ben's journey intertwines with themes of good versus evil, as he discovers his abilities and their connection to a larger cosmic battle. His character is central to the unfolding narrative, which explores the lives of various carnival performers and their struggles.