Georges Taï Benson, a renowned Ivorian broadcaster, has died at the age of 80. His passing occurred on Friday, September 25, 2026, at the Institut de cardiologie d'Abidjan. Benson was a prominent figure in Ivorian television and culture, with a career spanning nearly six decades. He was a talented animator, producer, and presenter who left an indelible mark on the country's audiovisual landscape.
Tributes have been pouring in for Benson, with Ivorian Minister of Communication and Government Spokesperson Amadou Coulibaly expressing his sadness at the news. Coulibaly described Benson as a "great figure of Ivorian television and culture" and noted that his career was inextricably linked with several decades of Ivorian audiovisual history. Benson's legacy is a testament to his dedication and passion for his craft.
Born in 1946, Benson studied drama in Grand-Lahou and Abidjan before honing his skills in radio broadcasting in France. He returned to Côte d'Ivoire in 1965 and joined the Radiodiffusion Télévision Ivoirienne (RTI) team, where he hosted the popular show Rythme et Tradition. His sense of creativity and rigor earned him widespread recognition, and he went on to host the iconic Variétoscope program.
Throughout his illustrious career, Benson received numerous national and international accolades. He was awarded the Chevalier de l'Ordre national de Côte d'Ivoire, Officier du Mérite sportif, and Chevalier du Mérite agricole, among others. In 2019, a special tribute was organized in his honor, recognizing his significant contributions to the Ivorian media landscape.
Benson's impact on Ivorian culture and television cannot be overstated. He was a true pioneer in his field, and his passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. As the Ivorian media community mourns the loss of this broadcasting legend, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of journalists, producers, and presenters.
Over the years, Benson demonstrated his versatility as a broadcaster, effortlessly navigating various formats and genres. His ability to connect with audiences and convey complex ideas in an engaging manner earned him a loyal following. As a testament to his enduring influence, his name remains synonymous with excellence in Ivorian broadcasting.
As Côte d'Ivoire bids farewell to this audiovisual icon, the nation comes together to celebrate his remarkable life and achievements. Benson's remarkable career serves as a reminder of the power of dedication, hard work, and a passion for storytelling. His memory will continue to inspire and motivate those who follow in his footsteps.
Key points
- Georges Taï Benson died on September 25, 2026, at the age of 80.
- Benson had a nearly six-decade-long career in Ivorian broadcasting.
- He received numerous national and international awards for his contributions to Ivorian media.
