Veteran Ghanaian actress Grace Nortey has died at the age of 89, marking the end of a remarkable career that spanned more than five decades.
The celebrated actress reportedly passed away at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC).
Born on February 1, 1937, Nortey celebrated her 89th birthday on February 1, 2026, having spent much of her life contributing to Ghana’s film and television industry.
She was regarded as one of the pioneers of Ghanaian screen acting and became a household name through memorable productions such as Juju, Nana Akoto, The Other Side of the Rich, Baby Thief, Matters of the Heart, Who Killed Nancy?, Escape to Love and Expectations.
Nortey was particularly recognised for portraying strong-willed and outspoken woman, especially matriarchs who challenged societal norms, patriarchy and injustice.
Her distinctive performances earned her a place among the most familiar faces of Ghana’s television and home-video era.
Her acting career also extended to internationally recognised productions.
She appeared in the acclaimed Ghanaian film Sinking Sands in 2011 and the Netflix war drama Beasts of No Nation in 2015.
Beyond her own achievements, Nortey’s legacy continued through her children, including actress Sheila Nortey, who followed in her mother’s footsteps into the acting profession.
Grace Nortey’s death is a significant loss to Ghana’s creative arts industry.
Her work, which entertained and inspired generations, remains an important part of the history of Ghanaian film and television.
