Ghana Entertainment News

The latest Ghana entertainment and showbiz news: music, movies, celebrities, and culture. Curated from Ghana's leading newsrooms and refreshed through the day, newest first.

Nana Akua Addo files divorce petition against Harold Norman
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Nana Akua Addo files divorce petition against Harold Norman

Ghanaian fashion icon Nana Akua Addo has filed a divorce petition against her husband, Harold Duodu Norman, following a series of public allegations and domestic disturbances. The move to legally dissolve the marriage comes after the release of videos and photographs purportedly documenting physical assault against the fashion star. The petition is currently pending in court as the couple’s private difficulties have become a subject of intense public interest. The legal filing reportedly includes significant financial and asset-related demands from Addo. Sources indicate that the fashion influencer is seeking a settlement that includes a payment of GH₵10 million, several houses, and a Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon. These details underscore the contentious nature of the separation and the substantial assets involved in the high-profile union. However, the divorce proceedings are complicated by emerging counter-allegations regarding the welfare of the couple's children. Recent reports and documents suggest that Addo herself is facing accusations of child abuse. These allegations involve claims of using wires and belts for discipline, as well as instances of starvation. These disturbing details have surfaced alongside the domestic assault claims, painting a complex and troubling picture of the household environment. As the case proceeds through the legal system, the fallout has triggered significant debate across Ghanaian social media and entertainment circles. The intersection of domestic violence allegations and child welfare concerns has dominated the narrative surrounding the fashion icon. The court is expected to deliberate on the merits of the divorce petition and the requested distribution of property in the coming months.

Solana named Spotify EQUAL Africa Artist for October
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Solana named Spotify EQUAL Africa Artist for October

Spotify has announced Nigerian artist Solana as its EQUAL Africa Artist for October, a recognition of her innovative fusion of alt-R&B, electronic, and pop music. The selection underscores the platform's commitment to highlighting diverse voices within the African continent, particularly women who are redefining contemporary sounds. Solana’s music, which is deeply rooted in her Nigerian heritage and frequently incorporates Yoruba influences, has garnered significant attention for its genre-bending quality and emotional depth. The recognition comes at a pivotal moment in Solana’s career, coinciding with the release of her new single, "Okunkun." The track focuses on the concept of resilience, reflecting on the internal strength required to navigate personal and professional challenges. In addition to the Spotify feature, Solana is scheduled to make her debut performance in South Africa on October 14, a move that is expected to further expand her footprint within the regional music market and introduce her sound to a broader live audience. Solana has been vocal about the importance of self-expression and the unique challenges faced by women in the African music industry. She views her craft as a powerful medium for connecting with audiences and sharing personal reflections on her journey. Her participation in the EQUAL Africa program is intended to provide her with the global visibility and tools necessary to thrive in a male-dominated industry, ensuring her voice reaches listeners far beyond her home country. The EQUAL Africa initiative is part of a broader global program by Spotify to promote gender equity in music. By providing dedicated resources, specialized playlisting, and promotional support, the program aims to amplify the reach of women artists who are making significant contributions to their respective genres. For Solana, this placement represents a major milestone in her journey as an artist seeking to bridge the gap between traditional African influences and modern global pop aesthetics.

Oscar winner Eva Marie Saint dies at 102
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Eva Marie Saint, Oscar-winning actress, dies at 102

Eva Marie Saint, the Academy Award-winning actress celebrated for her legendary roles in cinematic masterpieces such as On the Waterfront and North by Northwest, has passed away at the age of 102. According to family reports, the Hollywood icon died peacefully of natural causes at her home in Los Angeles, surrounded by her loved ones. Her death marks the conclusion of a remarkable career that bridged the golden age of cinema with modern film, leaving behind a legacy as one of the industry's most versatile and enduring talents. Born in New Jersey in 1924, Saint’s journey into the arts began in radio and television during their formative years. She catapulted to international fame with her film debut in the 1954 classic On the Waterfront, starring alongside Marlon Brando. Her portrayal of Edie Doyle was so compelling that it earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress on her very first film credit. She later achieved further acclaim as the sophisticated secret agent Eve Kendall in Alfred Hitchcock's North by Northwest, a role that solidified her status as a premier leading lady of the era. Beyond her most famous film roles, Saint maintained a prolific and award-winning presence across different mediums for decades. In 1990, her extensive contribution to television was recognized with an Emmy Award, further demonstrating her range and longevity. Younger audiences also recognize her from her appearance in the 2006 film Superman Returns, where she portrayed the character Martha Kent. Her immense contribution to the entertainment industry is permanently immortalized with two separate stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Off-screen, Eva Marie Saint was known for her long-standing marriage to actor and director Jeffrey Hayden, which lasted 65 years until his passing in 2016. She is survived by their two children. As tributes arrive from the global film community, she is being remembered not only for her technical skill and grace but for a career that spanned nearly a century, reflecting the evolution of American storytelling. Her death represents the passing of one of the last remaining links to the historic Hollywood studio system.

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Heritage Theatre Arts Festival opens 14th edition in Accra

The 14th Heritage Theatre Arts Festival has officially opened in Accra, marking the start of a week-long celebration dedicated to preserving African heritage and fostering cultural exchange. Held under the theme “Celebrating African Stories, Connecting Cultures, Inspiring Generations,” the event aims to bring together different generations to explore the power of theatre as a tool for narration and national identity. The festival features a diverse lineup of activities, including theatrical performances, interactive workshops, and cultural exchanges designed to showcase the richness of African traditions. Festival Director Priscilla Okoh-Martey emphasized the significance of individual and collective narratives during the opening ceremony. She encouraged participants to engage actively with the various sessions, noting that every individual’s story contributes to the broader tapestry of African culture. A central focus of this year's edition is youth involvement, with organizers seeking to provide young people with opportunities for career development in the arts while ensuring they remain connected to their cultural roots. This focus on the next generation is seen as vital for the long-term preservation of indigenous stories. Supporting this vision, HRM Nene Tetteh Wakah III highlighted the historical importance of storytelling within African societies, urging the audience to value these traditions in a rapidly changing world. Additionally, the festival is exploring how modern technology can be leveraged to enhance cultural preservation and reach wider audiences. Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey, the Deputy CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, reinforced this message by calling on Africans to take charge of their own narratives. He argued that telling authentic African stories is essential for promoting the continent's cultural heritage on a global stage and correcting external misconceptions. Throughout the week, the festival will continue to serve as a platform for artists and cultural enthusiasts to collaborate and share ideas. By integrating traditional performance styles with contemporary themes, the 14th Heritage Theatre Arts Festival seeks to inspire a new sense of pride in African identity. As the event progresses, it is expected to provide participants with practical skills through its workshop series while reinforcing the role of the arts as a pillar of national development and cultural diplomacy in Ghana.

Tap Nollywood’s talent pool to revive Ghana film — Jackie Appiah
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Jackie Appiah urges film industry to adopt Nollywood production model

Ghanaian actress Jackie Appiah has called for a strategic shift in the nation's film industry, advocating for the adoption of a professional ecosystem similar to Nigeria's Nollywood. Speaking at the Pete Edochie Legacy Project, the award-winning actress emphasized that for Ghana to revive its cinematic output, it must move beyond focusing solely on actors and invest in the broader creative infrastructure that sustains high-volume production. Appiah noted that Nollywood's success is rooted in its extensive network of behind-the-scenes professionals, including skilled scriptwriters, camera crews, and costume designers. She argued that these roles are vital to the industry's health and provide a depth of talent that allows for continuous content creation. By fostering an environment where these professionals can thrive, she believes Ghana can rebuild the production capacity it once enjoyed during its peak years. Addressing the next generation of filmmakers, the actress encouraged young creatives to be proactive in showcasing their skills. She urged aspiring writers and technical experts to share their portfolios and ideas with producers, rather than waiting for opportunities to come to them. This influx of fresh talent, she suggested, is essential for injecting new energy and perspectives into the local movie scene. Ultimately, Appiah highlighted that the revival of the sector depends on both talent and capital. She underscored the importance of increased investment to support these professional structures, noting that a well-funded industry with a diverse talent pool would be better positioned to compete internationally. Her comments reflect a growing sentiment within the Ghanaian creative arts space for structural reform to reclaim its position as a regional powerhouse in entertainment.

Togbi Zewu IV (middle), chairman of the festival central planning committee, reading Awadada’s speech at the launch
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Togbi Agbesi Awusu II launches 2026 Hogbetsotso Za media campaign

The media campaign for the 2026 Hogbetsotso Za festival has officially commenced following a launch event in Tegbi, within the Keta Municipality. This celebration is guided by the theme, "Anlo, Our Heritage and Our Values – Thriving to Build One Ghana for a Better Tomorrow." The campaign serves as a precursor to the festival’s main activities, which are expected to culminate in a grand durbar of chiefs and people on November 7 in Anloga. Awadada Togbi Agbesi Awusu II, speaking at the launch, underscored the deep historical and cultural roots of the festival. He explained that Hogbetsotso Za is an annual commemoration of the migration of the Ewe ancestors from Notsie in present-day Togo to their current settlements in Ghana. This historical exodus remains a pivotal point of identity for the Anlo people, representing their resilience and long-standing determination to seek freedom and self-determination. Beyond its historical significance, the 2026 media campaign is designed to project the economic potential of the Anlo traditional area to the wider world. Togbi Agbesi Awusu II called on the media to highlight local investment opportunities and the region's unique resources. By doing so, the traditional authorities hope to stimulate local empowerment and create a sense of pride and possibility for the youth, encouraging them to contribute actively to the development of their communities. The festival also aims to bridge cultural heritage with national aspirations for the future. The Awadada emphasized that the values celebrated during Hogbetsotso Za—such as unity, peace, and hard work—are essential for building a stronger Ghana. As the media campaign unfolds, it is expected to draw attention to the rich traditions of the Anlo people while fostering a spirit of national cohesion and mutual respect among all Ghanaians.

Rune Skinnebach (right), European Union Ambassador to Ghana, and Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, raising a toast after launching the EU Film Festival Ghana 2026. Picture: ELVIS NII NOI DOWUONA
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European Film Festival returns to Ghana after five-year hiatus

The European Film Festival has officially returned to Ghana after a five-year hiatus, opening with a focus on the theme "Peace, Tolerance and Inclusivity." The event, which is scheduled to run until October 11, serves as a strategic platform to bridge cultural gaps and foster deeper collaboration between the Ghanaian and European creative industries. This year's return marks a significant milestone for the local arts scene, aiming to revitalize international partnerships and cultural exchanges that had been paused since the festival's last edition. European Union Ambassador Rune Skinnebach highlighted the festival's role as more than just a cinematic showcase, describing film as a powerful tool for promoting mutual understanding across different cultures. By bringing together filmmakers, creative professionals, and diverse audiences, the festival seeks to explore practical opportunities for Ghanaian content in international markets. Ambassador Skinnebach emphasized that the initiative is designed to strengthen the bond between the European Union and Ghana through shared artistic expression and dialogue. The Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, underscored the vital importance of the cultural sector to Ghana's national identity and socio-economic development. She noted that strong international partnerships are essential for expanding the reach of Ghanaian creatives on global platforms. Minister Gomashie pointed out that the festival provides a necessary bridge to help local talent overcome historical barriers to entry in the global arena, ensuring that Ghanaian stories are seen and heard by a wider audience. Throughout the duration of the event, participants will engage in discussions centered on film production, distribution, and the role of the creative arts in driving social progress. By focusing on initiatives that directly support local artists, the festival aims to create a sustainable pipeline for Ghanaian cinema to flourish internationally. The return of the European Film Festival is seen as a long-term commitment to the growth of Ghana’s creative economy and a celebration of the diverse perspectives within the global filmmaking community.

Wicknell Chivayo features 777 branding on his coffin at funeral
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Wicknell Chivayo features 777 branding on his coffin at funeral

Wicknell Chivayo, the prominent Zimbabwean businessman known for his extravagant lifestyle, has been laid to rest in a ceremony that prominently featured his signature 777 branding. The numeric motif, which became synonymous with the billionaire's public identity during his lifetime, was noticeably displayed on his coffin. This final act of personal branding has drawn significant attention from the public and social media users, who have followed Chivayo’s high-profile displays of wealth over the years. The 777 signature was far from a new addition to Chivayo's estate; it was a consistent element of his personal and professional branding. Throughout his career, the businessman ensured the number was visible on his most prized possessions, including his private jet and a collection of personalized luxury vehicles. For many observers, the branding served as a hallmark of his success and a reflection of his penchant for luxury, making its appearance at his burial a fitting conclusion to his public story. Social media platforms have been alight with discussions regarding the deeper meaning behind the 777 branding. While some view it as a simple aesthetic choice or a lucky number, others have speculated on its potential spiritual or symbolic significance to the late businessman. Chivayo was well-known for using social media to broadcast his affluent lifestyle, and the curiosity surrounding his choice of numbers highlights the enduring public interest in his personal affairs even after his passing. The funeral arrangements have effectively extended Chivayo's legacy of showcasing his wealth to the very end. By incorporating the 777 motif into his final rites, his family and estate have maintained the distinct image he cultivated throughout his life. As the public reflects on his impact and the spectacle of his burial, the 777 remains a central point of intrigue, symbolizing the unique intersection of business, personal branding, and flamboyant display that defined Wicknell Chivayo.

Nadia Buari raises alarm over domestic violence against children
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Nadia Buari warns against normalizing domestic violence in the home

Ghanaian actress Nadia Buari has issued a public condemnation of domestic violence and child abuse, highlighting the profound psychological and emotional impact these issues have on children. In recent statements shared via social media, Buari emphasized that the home is intended to be a safe haven where children feel protected and loved, yet for many, it has become a place of fear and trauma. The actress detailed the multifaceted nature of abuse, noting that it extends beyond physical harm to include emotional, verbal, sexual, and financial mistreatment. She argued that domestic violence should never be treated as a private family matter but as a critical social issue that requires external intervention. According to Buari, abuse is a cycle that rarely ends without reporting or outside help, and she urged those experiencing it to prioritize their safety and that of their children. A central theme of her message was the danger of staying in toxic or violent relationships under the guise of keeping a family together for the sake of children. Buari warned that maintaining such environments actually harms children by normalizing violence as an acceptable part of domestic life. She encouraged victims and witnesses to break the silence and seek help rather than enduring harmful situations, stressing that silence only allows the abuse to persist and worsen over time. By leveraging her platform to address these social issues, Buari joins other Ghanaian public figures advocating for stronger protections for vulnerable family members. Her call to action serves as a reminder that safety and well-being must come before societal expectations of domestic privacy, urging a shift toward active reporting and community support for victims of abuse.

A side-by-side composite image of Ghanaian dancehall artist Shatta Wale and singer Fameye. On the left, Shatta Wale is shown laughing while wearing a white headband against a red background, while the right side features a serious black and white portrait of Fameye.
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Shatta Wale laughs at Fameye’s call for broader industry recognition

Ghanaian dancehall musician Shatta Wale has responded with amusement to recent comments made by fellow artiste Fameye regarding the recognition of talent within the domestic music scene. Fameye had suggested that the industry needs to move beyond focusing solely on the "Top 3" artistes—often cited as Shatta Wale, Sarkodie, and Stonebwoy—to allow other hardworking musicians to receive due credit and visibility. In a swift reaction, Shatta Wale indicated that such calls for broader recognition miss the mark on why certain artistes remain at the peak of the industry. Shatta Wale explained that his enduring success and status in the industry are not merely products of institutional recognition but are deeply rooted in his relationship with his supporters. He noted that he found Fameye’s remarks amusing because, in his view, the key to staying relevant is accessibility. The dancehall star argued that he has consistently presented himself as an approachable figure to his fans, refusing to let celebrity status create a barrier between him and the public. This grassroots connection, he claims, is what sustains a long-term career in the competitive Ghanaian music landscape. Critiquing the behavior of other performers, Shatta Wale asserted that many artistes experience a decline in popularity because they intentionally distance themselves from their fan base after achieving a degree of fame. He suggested that once some musicians become successful, they adopt an elitist persona that alienates the very people who supported their rise. By contrast, Shatta Wale believes his "street" credibility and willingness to remain relatable have ensured his continued dominance, regardless of industry debates about how many artistes should be prioritized in the national conversation. The "Top 3" narrative has been a persistent theme in Ghanaian entertainment discourse, often sparking debates about whether the media and award schemes over-concentrate on a few established names. While Fameye’s call represents a desire for a more inclusive industry that rewards a wider variety of talents, Shatta Wale’s response underscores a different philosophy: that popularity is earned through direct engagement rather than industry consensus. This exchange highlights the ongoing divide between newer acts seeking more space and the veterans who maintain that their positions are secured by their unique bonds with their audiences.

A professional studio photograph of Nigerian actress Damilola Adegbite posing against a plain white background. She is wearing a black sleeveless turtleneck top paired with olive green cargo pants that feature distinctive black strap detailing.
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Damilola Adegbite advises single women to prioritize character over attraction

Nollywood actress Damilola Adegbite has urged single women to adopt a more intentional and selective approach when choosing romantic partners. Speaking during a recent podcast appearance, the actress emphasized that the foundation of a healthy relationship should be built on substance rather than superficial factors. She stressed that while attraction is a common starting point, it should not be the primary criteria for entering into a long-term commitment. Adegbite specifically cautioned women against the temptation to settle for men simply because they show interest or make them feel desirable. She pointed out that being available or interested does not automatically make a suitor a suitable partner. Instead, she encouraged women to scrutinize a potential partner’s character, emotional maturity, and level of respect. For older women who may receive attention from younger men, the actress advised focusing on whether there is genuine compatibility and mutual support, rather than focusing on age or the momentary validation of being pursued. The actress further highlighted that a successful union requires a deep understanding between both parties. By advocating for emotional maturity, Adegbite suggests that women should look for partners who can offer stability and respect. Her advice serves as a reminder to prioritize long-term compatibility over short-term validation, encouraging single women to remain patient until they find a partner who aligns with their personal values and emotional needs.

Ghanaian-British singer Stephanie Benson is pictured posing on a rocky coastline. She is wearing a black bikini top, denim shorts, and waist beads, with her signature voluminous curly hair framing her face.
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Stephanie Benson urges women to choose exercise over cosmetic surgery

Ghanaian-British singer Stephanie Benson has called on Ghanaian women to prioritize physical fitness and healthy dietary habits instead of seeking quick-fix cosmetic procedures. Speaking during an interview on Hitz FM’s Daybreak Hitz, the veteran performer expressed concern over the rising trend of body-shaping surgeries, such as Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBL), and the underlying societal pressures that drive women toward these enhancements. She warned that the desire for immediate results often overlooks the potential for significant health risks in the future. Benson, who is frequently praised for her youthful and fit physique, shared that her appearance is the result of decades of personal discipline and a commitment to a rigorous lifestyle. She clarified that she has not undergone any cosmetic surgery for aesthetic purposes, emphasizing that her body is maintained through natural means. The only major surgery she noted was a mastectomy she underwent following a battle with cancer, which she cited as a medical necessity rather than a choice for physical enhancement. By sharing her personal journey, she aimed to demonstrate that a desired physique can be achieved and sustained through consistency and hard work. The singer further elaborated on the importance of dietary moderation and the psychological impact of following beauty trends. She advised women to resist the pressure to conform to temporary societal standards through invasive medical interventions. Benson’s comments add to a growing conversation within the Ghanaian entertainment space regarding body image and wellness, as she continues to advocate for a shift toward sustainable, natural health practices that benefit the body in the long term.