Iconic Vodafone Advert “Dancing” Gramps Passes On

During the period when the Ghanaian media and advertising space was buzzing with exciting competition among major brands, one would recall how vibrant the creative and advertising industry became with their product and service ads.

Within this period, Vodafone (Ghana) released a series of exciting episodic television adverts for its products and services, centered around an on-screen Vodafone family called “The Mensahs”.

One prominent member of this beautiful and lovable family was “Gramps”, played by Harrison Eric Tetteh, as the favorite and adorable Grandad who busted the exciting ‘‘Azonto’’ dance moves in one of the series of the telecom brand’s TV commercials. This was also in the era of worldwide “Azonto” euphoria.

He portrayed his real-life persona on screen—a selfless, dedicated person, with a caring character and a cheerful disposition, as attested by all who had the pleasure of working with him.

Aside from his memorable stint on television in his later years, he was an expert and skilled horologist, arguably the best in his time. He was the trusted go-to servicing and repair technician for high-value watches and timepieces belonging to prominent statesmen, dignitaries, and jewelers, such as the late President Jerry John Rawlings, Asantehene Otumfuo Opoku Ware II, Said Jewellery, and Maxmart, to name a few.

It’s interesting to note that in one of these episodic Vodafone commercials, his younger self was portrayed by one of his sons, Selassie Tetteh, who also appeared as Kofi Nsiah in the popular hit TV series “Things We Do For Love”.

Uncle Harry or Gramps, as he was affectionately called, never missed an opportunity to share joy and laughter wherever he went. Harrison was always quick with a laugh and a smile.

He also appeared in the 2018 movie “Bad Luck Joe,” the Heart Break Hotel TV series, and other television commercials for GTP and Hyper Malt.

Sadly, he passed away after succumbing to deteriorating health. However, throughout it all, he continued to radiate his zest for life and share his warmest smiles with all who encountered him. He was simply an unforgettable individual.

He is survived by his wife and 5 children.