Multi-talented Cameroonian actress Chantal Nchako stars in “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” currently playing on Netflix.
Nchako first gained recognition for her breakout leading role in the SXSW Grand Jury Prize-winning short film “BEAST,” a performance that also earned her the Best Actress award at the Queen Palm International Film Festival.
A graduate of USC where she attended on a full scholarship, Nchako was awarded the Ava Greenwald Memorial Scholarship for outstanding MFA Actor upon graduation. She became the first USC MFA student accepted into the Williamstown Theatre Festival’s Professional Training Program where she played the lead role of Ella in Sam Shepard’s “Curse of a Starving Class.”
Nchako’s talents caught the eye of several casting directors during her time in Williamstown, leading to roles on “Madam Secretary” and major films like “Distant Tales” and “Our Deadly Vows,” both streaming on Amazon Prime.
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KoxhkE_U3Ww
Beyond acting, Nchako is the founder and designer of Choobiz, a luxury, handcrafted vegan and cruelty-free shoe line made in Italy. She is fluent in English, French, and Italian, and serves as a resident faculty member at Silva Arte e Danza, a musical theatre academy in Siracusa, Italy.
Here is what Cameroonian actress Chantal Nchako (“Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F”) had to share about working in Hollywood and living in Italy.
L.A. Sentinel: It’s often said that growing up in an African home (in the U.S.) is very different than growing up in an African American home. Do you agree or disagree? If so, why?
Chantal Nchako: I’m neutral on this question. My family represents a true mix of cultures with roots from various places. We’re like a mini-United Nations when we gather. One notable difference I’ve noticed is that African children tend to stay home well after the age of 18 due to ample familial support, fostering a sense of protection and love.
LAS: What does it mean to be Cameroonian?
CN: Being Cameroonian means having a culture and heritage for support. Unlike the individualistic American culture, Cameroonian culture is collective, emphasizing community support and love in times of need. In America, high wealth and social status are prized, while in Cameroon, family and community hold utmost importance, promoting harmony and unity. Italy also prioritizes collective values within its culture.
LAS: What is the phonetic spelling of your name?
CN: Shaun-TAL (Chantal) Ng-chako (Nchako)
LAS: You are currently being seen all over the world in “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” (Netflix). Can you describe your character?
CN: My role will be my breakout moment. I’ve played dramatic roles, but everyone says I have a knack for comedy. Being part of this iconic franchise, alongside an actor I’ve long admired, is thrilling. My character, a parking enforcement officer, shares a scene with Eddie Murphy’s character Axel Foley, showcasing my comedic talent. It’s a significant opportunity for me!
LAS: Let’s talk about diversification. You are also the founder and designer of Choobiz, a luxury, handcrafted vegan and cruelty-free shoe line made in Italy. How did that start and where is it going?
CN: I launched my shoe line during the pandemic, and it’s thriving. With two styles currently available, I envision expanding the collection over time. Choobiz is an exclusive brand, and I intend to maintain that exclusivity. The Choobiz collection is currently available at Choobiz LLC.
LAS: What’s it like to live and work in Italy?
CN: Italy offers a relaxed lifestyle in a collective culture. The quality of life is vibrant and stress-free, with fresh, healthy food readily available. It’s simply a joy to live and work there. My students at the Silva Arte e Danza Musical Theatre Academy are very talented, and they challenge me to be a better artist. This month, I will also be teaching a 4-day workshop there.
LAS: You are fluent in English, French, and Italian. Which language do you use more to create?
CN: I don’t dwell on it much. Since I use English, French, and Italian daily, switching between them is automatic. It’s part of my routine to adapt my language depending on the person I’m interacting with. Having a talent for languages means I use different parts of my brain to learn, so I don’t translate before speaking.
LAS: Equestrian? Horses. Where did you learn to ride? What country?
CN: Early involvement at an equestrian club fostered my love for riding. I joined the Equestrian Club of Douala with my family when I was four years old. I participated in various activities and spent time feeding and grooming the horses to build a bond before riding them. So, I’ve continued riding ever since my childhood.
