Veteran Ghanaian actress Grace Nortey, one of the country’s most respected figures in theatre, television and film, has died at the age of 89.
Nortey reportedly passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC).
Her death comes just months after she celebrated her 89th birthday on February 1, 2026. Born on February 1, 1937, Nortey built a career spanning more than five decades and became a familiar face to generations of Ghanaian audiences.
She was particularly known for her commanding performances and portrayals of strong-willed, outspoken and determined women, roles that became a defining feature of her acting career.
Nortey rose to prominence during the golden era of Ghanaian television and theatre, featuring in several popular productions, including Obra, Osofo Dadzie, Nana Akoto, Escape to Love, Ties That Bind and Sinking Sands.
Her career also extended to internationally acclaimed productions. She appeared in the 2015 Netflix war drama Beasts of No Nation, alongside Idris Elba and Abraham Attah, further exposing her talent to an international audience.
Beyond acting, Nortey contributed to Ghana’s broadcasting and theatre landscape. She was also associated with radio programming and remained an influential figure in the country’s creative industry for decades.
Her contribution to the arts earned her several honours, including a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Black Star International Film Festival.
Nortey is survived by five children, including actress Sheila Nortey, who followed in her mother’s footsteps into the acting profession.
Her passing marks the loss of one of the pioneering figures of Ghanaian screen acting, whose work helped shape the country’s theatre, television and film industry across generations.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
