Legendary Ghanaian actress Grace Nortey has died at the age of 89, leaving behind a remarkable five-decade legacy in Ghana’s theatre, television and film industry.
The veteran actress 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, Grace Nortey 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 what is considered the golden era of local drama.
Her career spanned theatre, radio, television and film, with her commanding screen presence and versatility making her one of Ghana’s most recognisable veteran actresses.
Nortey began her career in theatre before gaining wider recognition through Ghanaian 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 went on to feature in several notable Ghanaian productions.
Her film credits include 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.
A defining figure in Ghanaian drama
Grace Nortey became particularly known for portraying strong and assertive female characters. Her ability to bring authority, emotion and depth to her roles made her a memorable figure among generations of Ghanaian audiences.
She was part of an era when television productions such as Obra, Osofo Dadzie, Taxi Driver and Thursday Theatre attracted huge audiences across the country.
Her contribution to Ghana’s creative arts earned her several honours, including a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Black Star International Film Festival in 2018.
She also received recognition 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 her contribution to the country’s film industry.
Although her public appearances and acting roles became less frequent in her later years, Nortey remained a respected and cherished figure among Ghanaians who grew up watching her performances.
Her death marks the loss of one of Ghana’s enduring cultural icons, whose work helped shape the country’s theatre, television and film industry for more than five decades.
Grace Nortey leaves behind a lasting legacy that will continue to influence Ghana’s creative arts and inspire generations of actors and filmmakers.
