Legendary Ghanaian actress Grace Nortey has died at the age of 89, leaving behind a remarkable five-decade legacy that helped shape Ghana’s theatre, television and film industry.
Nortey reportedly passed away at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) in the early hours of Wednesday, August 26, 2026.
Born on February 1, 1937, the veteran actress celebrated her 89th birthday earlier this year. She was widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Ghanaian theatre and television, particularly during the era considered the golden age of local drama.
Her career spanned theatre, radio, television and film, with her commanding screen presence and versatility earning her recognition as one of Ghana’s most celebrated veteran actresses.
Nortey began her career in theatre before gaining wider recognition through television productions. In the 1970s, she also hosted Nyeawokoshie, a radio programme for Ga women on Ghana Broadcasting Corporation’s Radio One.
Her first major film appearance came in the 1986 production Juju, after which she featured in several notable Ghanaian productions, including Nana Akoto, The Other Side of the Rich, Escape to Love, Matters of the Heart, Ties That Bind, Sinking Sands and Beasts of No Nation.
She became particularly known for portraying strong and assertive female characters, bringing authority and emotional depth to her performances.
Her career coincided with a period when Ghanaian television productions such as Obra, Osofo Dadzie, Taxi Driver and Thursday Theatre attracted huge audiences and played a major role in shaping local popular culture.
A career recognised with honours
Nortey’s contribution to Ghana’s creative arts earned her several honours throughout her career.
In 2018, she received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Black Star International Film Festival. She was also recognised at the Ghana Movie Awards, the Glitz Women of the Year Honours and the 3Music Awards Women’s Brunch.
In 2025, she was among veteran Ghanaian actors honoured at the Ashanti Festival for their contributions to the country’s film industry.
Although her public appearances and acting roles became less frequent in her later years, Nortey remained a beloved figure among generations of Ghanaians who grew up watching her performances.
Her death marks the passing of one of Ghana’s enduring cultural icons, whose work across theatre, radio, television and film helped shape the country’s entertainment industry for more than five decades.
Source: citinews
