Veteran Ghanaian actor Kofi Adjorlolo has reignited debate over the origins of Ghanaian film stardom, firmly asserting that Nollywood did not create fame for Ghana’s movie talent.
Speaking on The Real Talk Podcast with Elizabeth Essuman, Adjorlolo argued that Ghana’s film industry had already produced celebrated stars and thriving productions long before Nigerian filmmakers began inviting Ghanaian actors to feature in Nollywood projects.
“Though the Ghana movie industry may be having its own problems, it does not mean Nigerians made us.
“Ghana Films made Ghanaian actors,” he declared. “The Ghana movie industry and the movies we produced made us popular before Nigerian producers noticed and called us.”
Adjorlolo emphasised Ghana’s long-standing success in filmmaking, noting that “Ghallywood” once held a strong position on the African entertainment scene.
He dismissed claims that the industry is declining, instead pointing to shortcomings in promotion and marketing.
“Ghana movie is not down; actors are acting daily, producers are producing daily, work is ongoing daily. Rather, it is the promotion and marketing that is lacking – and we’ve got to fix that area,” he stressed.
The veteran actor highlighted that stars like Majid Michel, Van Vicker, Jackie Appiah, John Dumelo, Juliet Ibrahim, Nadia Buari and Yvonne Nelson gained recognition at home before their Nollywood breakthroughs.
“Ghanaian actors earned their fame in their home country first,” he reminded listeners, underscoring Ghana’s ability to nurture bankable talent.
While acknowledging Nigeria’s remarkable business acumen, Adjorlolo insisted that Ghana deserves full credit for laying the artistic foundations that propelled its stars.
He called for practical solutions to the industry’s challenges, emphasising the need for stronger marketing strategies and collaborative efforts to restore Ghanaian cinema’s visibility.
The seasoned actor, who recently revealed his lifelong passion for music dating back to childhood, urged industry players to focus on innovation and teamwork rather than criticism.
