Veteran Ghanaian actress Grace Nortey, renowned for her remarkable contribution to theatre, television and film, has died at the age of 89.

The celebrated actress reportedly passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC).

Born on February 1, 1937, Grace Nortey spent more than five decades in the Ghanaian creative industry, becoming one of the most recognisable faces of the country’s entertainment landscape.

Her death marks the end of an illustrious career that saw her feature in several productions that shaped Ghana’s television and film industry.

A career spanning generations

Grace Nortey rose to prominence during the golden era of Ghanaian television, earning admiration for her commanding performances and ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters.

She was particularly noted for portraying outspoken, authoritative and determined women, roles that became synonymous with her distinctive acting style.

Over the years, she featured in several popular productions, including Obra, Osofo Dadzie, Nana Akoto, Escape to Love, Ties That Bind and Sinking Sands.

Her longevity in the industry allowed her to work with several generations of Ghanaian actors and filmmakers while remaining a familiar face to audiences.

International recognition

Grace Nortey also earned an international film credit when she appeared in the 2015 critically acclaimed movie Beasts of No Nation.

The film, directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga and starring Hollywood actor Idris Elba alongside Ghanaian actor Abraham Attah, was filmed in Ghana and received significant international attention.

Nortey played the role of the Old Witch Woman in the movie.

Her other film credits included Sinking Sands, where she portrayed Grandma, as well as Ties That Bind, Lost Hope, Dza Gbele, Matters of the Heart, Sekina, Expectations and Jewels.

Nortey’s contribution to Ghana’s creative arts extended beyond acting.

She began her career at a time when theatre and television drama wielded considerable influence in Ghanaian popular culture.

She was also involved in radio and hosted Nyeawokoshie, a programme targeted at Ga women during the 1970s.

Her involvement in Osofo Dadzie further enhanced her reputation. The popular television drama, which ran from the 1970s into the 1980s, became one of Ghana’s most cherished productions, combining folklore, social commentary and everyday experiences.

A lasting legacy

Grace Nortey’s career was distinguished by its remarkable longevity.

Even as Ghana’s entertainment industry evolved from traditional theatre and television drama into the modern film era, she remained active and continued to command respect among industry practitioners and audiences.

Her contribution to the creative arts was recognised with several honours, including a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Black Star International Film Festival, according to biographical accounts of her career.

She was also a mother of five daughters, including actress Sheila Nortey.

In a 2024 interview, Grace Nortey opened up about her life away from the spotlight and spoke about the loss of her husband, Daniel Nortey, whom she described as an important part of her life.

Her passing comes as a significant loss to an industry she served for more than five decades.

Grace Nortey leaves behind a rich body of work and a legacy that connects Ghana’s formative television era to the contemporary film industry.

From radio and theatre to television and internationally recognised cinema, she remained a formidable presence in Ghanaian entertainment.

She was 89.