Veteran Ghanaian actress Grace Nortey dies at 89
Veteran Ghanaian actress Grace Nortey, one of the country’s most respected figures in theatre, television and film, has reportedly died at the age of 89.
Nortey reportedly passed away at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) in the early hours of Wednesday, August 26, 2026.
Her death marks the loss of a celebrated actress whose career spanned more than five decades and helped shape Ghana’s entertainment industry.
Born on February 1, 1937, Nortey became widely recognised for her powerful performances, particularly in roles portraying strong-willed mothers, matriarchs and authoritative women.
She was affectionately known as “Maame Gyata”, a name associated with the commanding and outspoken characters she frequently portrayed on screen.
Over the course of her career, Nortey appeared in numerous Ghanaian productions, including Juju, Nana Akoto, Lost Hope, Dza Gbele, Matters of the Heart, Expectations, Jewels, Ties That Bind and Sinking Sands.
She also featured in the internationally acclaimed 2015 film Beasts of No Nation, which starred British actor Idris Elba and Ghanaian actor Abraham Attah.
Beyond acting, Nortey contributed to Ghana’s broadcasting and theatre sectors. She reportedly hosted Nyeawokoshie, a radio programme aimed at Ga women, during the 1970s.
Her contribution to the creative arts earned her several honours and lifetime achievement recognitions, including awards from events celebrating African cinema. She was also honoured during the 2025 Ashanti Festival for her contribution to Ghana’s movie industry.
Nortey’s influence extended to the next generation, with her daughter, Sheila Nortey, also pursuing a career in acting.
News of her passing has prompted renewed attention to her decades-long contribution to Ghanaian entertainment, with tributes expected from colleagues, industry figures and admirers.
An emotional account involving Nortey and President John Mahama has also resurfaced following reports of her death. Actor Mr Beautiful previously recounted an encounter in which the veteran actress spoke to Mahama about her desire to see him return to the presidency and expressed a wish for him to be involved in her final rites.
Nortey’s death comes after a career that saw her work across different generations of Ghanaian performers and transition from theatre and television productions to major film projects.
She leaves behind five children, according to reports, as well as a lasting legacy as one of Ghana’s pioneering female actors.
About The Author
