Raffi Boghosian, a multifaceted producer, writer, and television host of Iraqi heritage, has carved his own unique path in the entertainment industry and Hollywood is the backdrop for his story of creativity and ambition. Whether it is an exclusive interview he conducts or a fascinating magazine feature story of his, Boghosian’s words connect with a worldwide audience; through his company, Boghos Entertainment, he has produced a diverse array of successful shows for the Middle Eastern market. His journey has been a captivating blend of culture, talent, and determination. eniGma’s Reham Adel had the chance to speak with Boghosian about his remarkable career and his multiple achievements both with his pen and on camera.
Born in Iraq and raised in Syria and Jordan, Raffi Boghosian now has a thriving business in Los Angeles. He earned his high school diploma from the Oxford Schools and his bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of La Verne. He began his career in the entertainment industry at the young age of 15. He worked as a correspondent for the MBC Group. With the rise of digital platforms, he moved to Blinks with his own weekly show, Raffi Talks where he achieved much success with his unique interviews with a diverse range of guests. Bridging Hollywood stardom with the Middle East’s vibrant tapestry that is his background, his guests have included big names like Kevin Hart, Brad Pitt and George Clooney.
Boghosian is more than a face on screen; he’s a member of the US Department of State’s Foreign Affairs Center, the Critics’ Choice Association, the Motion Picture Association (MPA), and the Golden Globe Awards. Aside from being an incredible host, he also runs his own company, Boghos Entertainment, in Burbank, which provides content to more than 20 of the biggest channels in the region with documentaries, TV shows and live streaming. Beyond the glimmering lights, Boghosian wields his pen as skillfully as a director frames a shot. He’s a writer for Al Arabiya English, weaving narratives that transcend borders.
Boghosian had always dreamt of having his own business. He planted the seeds of Boghos Entertainment at the tender age of 21, “And today it’s one of the biggest companies here, if not the biggest one,” he proudly exclaims. Yet Boghosian’s dreams extend beyond the horizon of his achievements to date, with movie production expected to be the next chapter in his remarkable story.
Delving into the challenges he faced in his journey, Boghosian recalls, “There were a lot of challenges. Nothing worthwhile ever comes easy. If it did, everyone would be doing it.” Having been raised outside the US, Boghosian faced the daunting task of navigating an unfamiliar environment with new rules and new ways of doing business. But he didn’t flinch. With unwavering determination, he turned his dream into reality. “I have made a lot of bad decisions,” he admits. “But it’s all part of the journey.” His one life rule is that when he sets his sights on something, he rolls up his sleeves and dives in headfirst. “Even now, at this age, I work as hard as I did when I was 21. Same passion, same love for what I do,” he adds.
When it comes to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, few have mingled with its stars as intimately as Raffi Boghosian. When asked to pinpoint his ultimate favourite, his answer come immediately, “I’m a movie lover, and the Oscars are the celebration of the best films, so for me, I would go for the Oscars.” After the Oscars, the Golden Globes hold a special place in his heart. Raffi’s experiences offer a front-row seat to the magic that defines the world of cinema.
Turning to eniGma’s 11th Celebration of Arab glamour & Success, Boghosian finds that it presents the intersection of Arab elegance with Hollywood allure. “Enigma’s event was beautiful. It was held at one of the best places here in Beverly Hills, the Maybourne Hotel,” he enthuses. His praise for Yasmine Shihata, the brilliant founder and CEO of eniGma magazine, is effusive, “She took care of every single detail. I love how she bridges between the Middle East and the US. We really need to see events like this more often because it gives the right image of Arabs and we don’t see that a lot in LA. I’m so proud of her.”
With his extraordinary career journey standing as a testament to resilience and passion, Raffi Boghosian’s is an inspiration to the younger generation. He is generous with his words of guidance, emphasising the inevitability of struggles and encouraging unwavering belief in oneself.
“First, you need to determine what you truly want. Once you’ve made that decision, give it everything you’ve got,” he says, adding, “stay strong and keep chasing your dreams. Believe in yourself and don’t listen to negativity—that’s my advice.”