Veteran actress Grace Nortey dies at 89

While the world was mourning the death of American country music icon Dolly Parton, Ghana was also bidding farewell to one of its own screen legends, veteran actress Grace Nortey, who died at the age of 89.

Nortey reportedly died in the early hours of Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC), bringing to an end a career spanning more than five decades.

Her death brings an end to a career spanning more than five decades, during which she became one of the most recognisable faces in Ghanaian theatre, television and film.

Known for her strong and commanding performances, Nortey often portrayed outspoken and determined women, earning a place in the hearts of generations of Ghanaian audiences.

She featured in several notable productions, including Obra, Osofo Dadzie, Nana Akoto, Escape to Love, Ties That Bind and Sinking Sands.

Nortey also appeared in the internationally acclaimed 2015 film Beasts of No Nation, directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga and starring Idris Elba and Abraham Attah. She played the Old Witch Woman in the film, which was shot in Ghana and received widespread international recognition. 

Nortey’s contribution to Ghana’s creative industry extended beyond film and television.

She built her reputation at a time when theatre and television drama were among the country’s most influential forms of entertainment. She also worked in radio, hosting Nyeawokoshie, a programme targeted at Ga women during the 1970s.

Her television career included appearances in some of Ghana’s best-known drama productions, particularly Osofo Dadzie, which became a household favourite and helped shape Ghanaian television drama through its portrayal of folklore, social issues and everyday life.

Her film credits included Sinking Sands, in which she played Grandma, as well as Ties That Bind. Her later work also included productions such as Lost Hope, Dza Gbele, Matters of the Heart, Sekina, Expectations and Jewels.

A career across generations

What set Nortey apart was the longevity of her career. She worked across different generations of Ghanaian performers and remained a familiar face as the country’s film and television industry evolved.

Her performances, often marked by authority and emotional depth, contributed to the character-driven style that defined Ghanaian television drama during its formative years.

 She was also recognised for her contribution to the creative industry and received honours, including a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Black Star International Film Festival.

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

Source: Graphic Showbiz