Boris Kodjoe Discusses Childhood Experiences in Germany
Boris Kodjoe appeared on The Carlos Watson Show, which launched in summer 2020. The show is described as “a flavorful talk show built to meet this historic moment.” Boris Kodjoe shares his experience growing up as a Black kid in Germany with Carlos Watson.
Boris Kodjoe, born Boris Frederic Cecil Tay-Natey Ofuatey-Kodjoe, spent his first 20 years in Germany. His father is from Ghana, and his mother has German Jewish heritage. Interestingly, he even managed to make people believe he was American.
“It was a challenge for me to make people believe I’m from here,” revealed Kodjoe, aged 47. “Learning the language without an accent was difficult enough, but understanding the culture specific to African Americans was the real challenge. And it still is, actually.”
The Actor Speaks on The Challenges He Faced
Kodjoe and his brother had a hard time. Here’s what he had to say about their challenges:
As kids, my brother and I were the only Black kids in our community. We endured daily bullying and name-calling because being different was perceived as a threat, especially among children. Instead of curiosity, they chose to exclude us, and that was a common experience for us.
Kodjoe’s episode on The Carlos Watson Show will air on Tuesday, Feb. 2. Be sure to check it out to here the actor’s full interview.
