Catching up with Benny Blanco

For years now, Benny Blanco has been on a roll, presenting on TV, featuring in movies and hosting numerous live events. Benny seems to get better at his craft every time we see him, delivering with such fluidity and eloquence. He demonstrates his passion for the media work. His work ethic and commitment to his job have been praised by his fans and colleagues, as he continues to push to greater heights in his career. I caught up with him to find out more.

What have you been up to recently?

Benny: I’ll have to say not too much. The way Ghana is at the moment, opportunities have somewhat decreased. Cost of doing business has increased. I guess I’m just trying to maintain, and take it one day at a time, just like everyone else. Things certainly have changed from when I returned to Ghana years ago.

You host live events, present on TV and act, among other things. Which do you prefer doing?

Benny: I love to MC weddings. You get to be part of somebody’s union, which I think is very special. People trust you to make their special moment even more memorable. Plus, it pays quite well, for doing what you love. I’m also done in a couple of hours. But the highlight has got to be the bridesmaids! (laughs)

Is there anything you don’t like about your job?

Benny: There isn’t much I don’t like about it. I guess it’s having to wait and rely on guests. You can prepare and be a 100% ready for an interview, but if your guest is late or doesn’t turn up, things can go bad. At the end, it all depends on whether your guest will go your way or not.

If you weren’t in your current profession, what other career would you have?

Benny: I’ve never really thought about it. I used to work in an office and push paper. I don’t think I would want to do that anymore. If things got really bad, I would have to come up with something, I guess. I might do Public Relations or something.

What would you say is the best part of your job?

Benny: I think it’s meeting all kinds of people every day. I’ve had the privilege of meeting people from different walks of life that do so many different things. It’s all quite amazing. Sometimes you really don’t get what you expected, which is always refreshing.

Which would you say is the most memorable moment of your career so far?

Benny: There have been quite a few, actually. I think one of the biggest ones is when I got on the stage at the first Ghana Fashion Week. I had just got back to Ghana, and it was my first time hosting a show here. It was going really well, until I was wrapping up a segment and I said to the crowd “told hight”, instead of “hold tight”. I got a nice round of applause, and giggles, from my friends in the front row. It reminds me of the fact that I’m human, and I can make mistakes.

How do you handle being a celebrity in Ghana?

Benny: Celebrity?! Me?!No way!! I wouldn’t call myself a celebrity at all. I’m a guy who’s popular, but that’s it. I’m a very private person. If I’m not at my regular “hang out” then I’m home. I don’t consider myself a celebrity.

What’s next for you in the near future?

Benny: Well hopefully they will figure out this “Dumsor” thing, and man can start making some moves. Energy is the key to progress. I believe they will sort it out, they have to. We have to remain positive. I look forward to more work, and just being happy.

A message to your fans?

Benny: I wouldn’t be the so-called ‘popular person’ I am if it wasn’t for the people that watch my shows and come to events I host. To all those that say they want to be like me, be a better version of me. Make sure you become a king or queen of your craft and embrace it, and become a productive member of society. God bless!