Chris Attoh (born Christopher Keith Nii Attoh; May 17, 1979) is a Ghanaian actor, film director, on-air personality, television presenter and producer. He is best known as "Kwame Mensah" in Nigerian soap opera Tinsel.[1][2][3]

Chris Attoh
Attoh at 3 Music Awards 22
Born
Christopher Keith Nii Attoh

(1979-05-17) May 17, 1979 (age 45)
Ghana
EducationNew York Film Academy, Achimota School and Accra Academy
Occupations
  • Actor
  • television presenter
  • producer
Known forTinsel, The Perfect Picture, Sylvia, Scorned, Flower girl
Spouses
  • (divorced)
  • Bettie Jennifer
    (m. 2018)
Children1

Education

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He attended the New York Film Academy, Achimota School and Accra Academy. At Accra Academy, his classmates included the media businessman and radio personality Nathan Adisi. He then moved on to KNUST where he studied for a Bachelor of Art in Painting degree. He later went to London to study Banking and Securities.[4]

Hosting of events

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He co-hosted the 2016 edition of the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards with Naa Ashorkor and DJ Black.[5] He was also the MC of the 2014 edition of F.A.C.E List Awards in New York City along with Sandra Appiah.[6]

On Saturday, 1 June 2024, he co-hosted the 25th Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) with Naa Ashorkor Mensah-Doku.[7]

Personal life

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He was previously married to Damilola Adegbite, but was reported to be divorced in September 2017.[8][9] He remarried on Saturday 6 October 2018 to Bettie Jennifer, a US-based businesswoman at a private ceremony in Accra.[10]

Career in television and film

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Chris Attoh’s career skyrocketed when he landed a role in the popular Nigerian television series Tinsel, where he played the character "Kwame Mensah." This role not only solidified his status as one of the leading actors in Africa but also opened doors for numerous other opportunities in the film industry across the continent. Attoh's versatility as an actor is evident in his performances in various films, including Six Hours to Christmas and Flower Girl. His ability to seamlessly switch between roles in romantic comedies and intense dramas has earned him critical acclaim.[11][12]

Impact on African cinema

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Chris Attoh has significantly contributed to the growth and global recognition of African cinema. Through his work, he has challenged stereotypes and portrayed African stories with authenticity and depth. His performances have not only garnered international attention but have also paved the way for African actors in Hollywood. Attoh’s involvement in various pan-African film projects has further strengthened his influence, making him a key figure in the contemporary African film industry.[13][14]

Entrepreneurship and other ventures

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Beyond acting, Chris Attoh is also an entrepreneur with a keen interest in the entertainment business. He founded A Factory Limited, a multimedia production company focused on creating high-quality content for African audiences. This venture highlights his commitment to not only starring in films but also producing and directing projects that reflect African culture. Attoh's entrepreneurial spirit extends to his work as a television host and a brand ambassador for various companies, further diversifying his portfolio.[15][16]

Challenges

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Chris Attoh's personal life has been marked by both triumphs and tragedies. His marriage to Bettie Jennifer, an American businesswoman, ended in tragedy when she was fatally shot in 2019. This devastating event thrust Attoh into the international spotlight, but he has shown resilience in the face of adversity. He continues to honor her memory while maintaining his focus on his career and personal growth. Attoh's ability to navigate through such challenges is a testament to his strength and determination.[17][18]

Filmography

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Films

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  • Sylvia (2020)
  • The Perfect Picture (2009) as Larry
  • The Perfect Picture – Ten Years Later (2020)[19] as Larry Stevens
  • An Accidental Zombie (Named Ted) (2018) as Ricky
  • In line (2017) as David
  • A Trip to Jamaica (2016) as Tayo
  • "Happiness is a Four-Letter Word" (2016) as Chris
  • Flower Girl (2013) as Umar Abubakar
  • Journey to Self (2012) as Dapo
  • Single and Married (2012) as Jay
  • Bad Luck Joe (2018) as Joe
  • Scorned (2008) as Orlando Thompson
  • Life and Living It (2007) as Ray Austin
  • Esohe (2017) as Ifagbai
  • A Soldier's Story 2; Return from the Dead (2020) as Logan
  • Love and Cancer (2017)
  • Love and War (2013) as Daniel
  • Moving On (2013) as Taye
  • Closure Mandate (2022) as Dele
  • International Affairs (2018) as Bode
  • Lotanna (2017) as Kojo
  • The Rangers; Shadows Rising (2016) as Garrin
  • Sinking Sands (2010) as Mensah
  • One More Day
  • The In-laws (2017) as Tobi
  • Potato Potatho[20] (2017) as Gabby
  • Kintampo (2018)
  • All About Love (2017) as Ryan
  • Choices (2020)
  • Somniphobia (2021) as Dr. Brady
  • Lovers Discretion (2021) as Will
  • James Town (2016)
  • Six hours To Christmas (2010) as Reggie
  • Swings[21] (2017)
  • Sinister Stepsister (2022) - Lifetime Movie Network
  • Aborted Assignment (2023) as Kola
  • Finding Odera (2023) as Eric
  • The American Society of Magical Negroes (2024) as Ghanaian Businessperson
  • I'm Sorry Son (2024) as Ray

Television

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  • A House Divided (U.M.C) 2019–2020
  • Fifty – the series 2020
  • BRAT TV 2020
  • Tinsel (2008–2013)
  • Shuga (season 3) (2013–2015)

Philanthropy and social impact

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Chris Attoh is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He has been involved in various initiatives aimed at improving the lives of underprivileged communities in Ghana and across Africa. Through his platform, he advocates for education, youth empowerment, and the arts. His commitment to giving back to society has earned him recognition, and he continues to use his influence to effect positive change.[22][23]

References

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  1. ^ Adeola Adeyemo (18 February 2012). "BN Saturday Celebrity Interview: 'The HOTTEST Nice Guy You'll Ever Meet!' – Ghanaian TV & Movie Star Chris Attoh of 'Tinsel' reveals ALL exclusively to BN". Bella Naija. Retrieved 18 August 2014.
  2. ^ "EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: "Love is the one thing we will never comprehend…" CHRIS ATTOH- Ghanaian Actor, TV Host & M-NET's Tinsel TV Series Star". Archived from the original on 19 August 2014. Retrieved 18 August 2014.
  3. ^ "Women Paint their Dreams on me – Chris Attoh". punchng.com. Archived from the original on 19 August 2014. Retrieved 18 August 2014.
  4. ^ "Ghanaian actor Chris Attoh marries again [Photos]". Citi Newsroom. 2018-10-06. Retrieved 2018-10-07.
  5. ^ "Chris, Naa and DJ Black to host VGMA 2016 – Graphic Online". Graphic.com.gh. 2016-05-03. Retrieved 2019-05-14.
  6. ^ "Industry Leaders in Business and Entertainment to be Honored at F.A.C.E List Awards". Black Enterprise. 2014-07-24. Retrieved 2019-05-13.
  7. ^ Ghartey, Raphael (2024-06-01). "25th TGMA: Chris Attoh returns as host, co-host with TV3's Naa Ashorkor for the second time | 3News". 3news.com. Retrieved 2024-06-02.
  8. ^ "M.I congratulates Chris Attoh and Damilola Adegbite on engagement". thenet.ng. Archived from the original on 19 September 2014. Retrieved 18 August 2014.
  9. ^ "Exclusive: Chris Attoh opens up to BellaNaija about New Projects, Divorce from Damilola Adegbite & 'The Kindness Foundation". bellanaija. 25 September 2017. Retrieved 25 September 2017.
  10. ^ "Ghanaian actor Chris Attoh marries again [Photos]". Oct 6, 2018. Retrieved May 14, 2019.
  11. ^ Ankomah, N (2022). The evolution of television in Africa. Lagos. Horizon Books.
  12. ^ Mensah, J (2024). Exploring the filmography of Chris Attoh. Cape Town: African Screen Publishing.
  13. ^ Agyemang, E (2024). African cinema's evolution and its global influence. Cape Coast: Coastal Publishers.
  14. ^ Owusu, E (2023). Cinematic excellence: Profiles of leading African actors. Nairobi: East African Books.
  15. ^ Adomako, K (2022). Entrepreneurial pursuits of Ghanaian celebrities. Accra: Sapphire Press.
  16. ^ Yeboah, T (2023). Celebrity branding and the African market. Lagos: New World Press.
  17. ^ Asante, M (2020). Resilience in the face of tragedy: Chris Attoh’s story. Kumasi: Heritage Publications.
  18. ^ Gyamfi, A (2024). Life and loss in the spotlight: Chris Attoh’s personal journey. Accra: Lantern House.
  19. ^ "Sparrow Production shoots 'Perfect Picture' movie again 10 years later". www.ghanaweb.com. 2019-10-09. Retrieved 2021-02-03.
  20. ^ "Shirley Frimpong-Manso's 'Potato Potahto' makes it to Netflix – MyJoyOnline.com". www.myjoyonline.com. Retrieved 2021-02-03.
  21. ^ "Movie starring Yvonne Nelson, Chris Attoh, Henry Adofo premieres November 25". Entertainment. Nov 22, 2017. Retrieved May 14, 2019.
  22. ^ Ofori, D (2023). Giving back: Celebrities and social change in Ghana. Accra: Unity Books.
  23. ^ Boadu, S (2024). Philanthropy in the entertainment industry. Accra: Gold Leaf Press.
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