Famous Turkish actor and occasional popular artist, Karem Cem Duruk aka Atez was in Addis Ababa this week for a three-day visit. The one-time television host has hosted a reception for hundreds of fans and will headline a concert with local musicians, including Lej Michael tonight at Intercontinental Hotel.
The 40-year old has seen his popularity rise within Ethiopia, as millions of people have been glued to KANA TV, (local channel known for its dubbed foreign films) and watch him on Turkish soaps regularly. His fame also had him serve as brand ambassador for a Turkish manufacturer within the country.
This is the influence of Turkey in Ethiopia – from its diversity of culture, to its factories as Ethiopia continues to see the Turkish society as something to emulate in its emergence as an economically sound African nation.
“I have been to Tunis [Tunisia] as a tourist. But, Ethiopia is really my first trip to Africa, particularly since Ethiopia is the heart of the continent,” he told The Reporter. “I am taken aback by how many people are watching my series films here and the reception I have received here is empowering. I hope my trip will not be my first and only, but a start of many”.
At Sheraton, he told the assembled media that he is open to the idea of working with local actors and help develop the local film and soap scenes for the better. (By Samuel Getachew)
