by Ada Igboanugo

No, Joseph Benjamin is not one of the twelve sons of Jacob.

Those of you who saw ‘Tango with Me’ would agree that the movie was exceptional – powerful enough to show viewers a vivid experience of real life situations. In his lead role as Uzor, Joseph Benjamin brought the script to life and expectedly, those who weren’t familiar with the talented act wondered where he had been hiding. Others who’d seen him on Project Fame debated on whether he was a better actor or reality TV host. However, Joseph did not just stumble onto fame.

Joseph Chibuzor Benjamin formally kicked off his professional career as an actor in, the popular Tales by Moonlight, after which he landed a role in the movie, Crossroads, in 1991. Joseph then diverted to pursue a career in modeling, working with brands such as Coca Cola, Maltina, Indomie, National Electoral Commission (NEC), Peak, Crusader Insurance and Stanbic Bank. He also put his vocal prowess to use, recording voice-overs for a number of these brands as well as MTN, Zain, Heineken, Samsung, Intercontinental Bank, the British Council and several others.

In 2003, Joseph made his way back into the movie industry by starring in Deadly Mission (produced by Zeb Ejiro and directed by Andy Amenechi(, Jumai Joseph’s ‘Just Me’ in 2005, Shan George’s Travails of Faith and Kiss and Tell (released this year & currently gaining massive ratings at the cinemas). He also features in an upcoming movie, Mr. & Mrs.

Joseph also dabbled in daytime television, starring in dramas series including Bachelors, Young Single and Free, Super Story, 168, Edge of Paradise and Tinsel.

His career in TV presenting started with his hosting the “Y’ello” carpet live for the Hip-Hop World Awards (2007) and he currently hosts MTN Project Fame West Africa alongside Mimi.

A rising star who certainly has his best years ahead of him, Joseph aspires to be ‘one of the most honorable God-motivated media representatives in Nigeria’s entertainment sector’, and is currently a nominee for the 2011 CityPeople Entertainment Awards of the Year’.

Oluwapelumi