Veteran Ghanaian actor Kofi Adjorlolo has sparked a debate in the African film industry with his assertion that Nollywood did not make Ghanaian actors popular.
According to Adjorlolo, Ghana’s movie industry was already thriving and producing stars who could stand shoulder-to-shoulder with other African counterparts before Nigerian producers took notice and collaborated with them.
Speaking on this week’s episode of ‘The Real Talk Podcast’ hosted by Elizabeth Essuman emphasized that Ghanaian actors gained their breakthroughs in their home country before being introduced to Nollywood.
He cited the success of Ghanaian films and the talent of its actors as evidence that Ghana’s industry was already on a strong footing.
Adjorlolo’s comments come amid a broader discussion about the relationship between Ghana’s film industry, known as Ghallywood, and Nollywood, with some industry stakeholders debating the impact of cross-border collaborations on local talent and content.
Some notable Ghanaian actors who have made a name for themselves in Nollywood include Majid Michel, Van Vicker, Jackie Appiah, John Dumelo, Juliet Ibrahim, Nadia Buari, Yvonne Nelson among a host of others.
“Though the Ghana Movie Industry may be having its own problems; it does not mean that Nigerians made us, Ghana Films made Ghanaian actors.
The seasoned broadcaster, who recently showcased his musical talents dating back to age 8, acknowledged the business acumen and determination of Nigerians.
However, he emphasized that Ghana deserves recognition for producing talented movie stars who can stand alongside other African counterparts.
He specifically highlighted top Ghanaian stars who achieved success in Ghana before gaining opportunities in Nigeria,
While acknowledging the challenges of Ghana’s film industry, he emphasized the importance of finding solutions rather than criticizing the industry.
Adjorlolo encouraged those who recognize the problems to collaborate and develop strategies that could elevate the industry, promoting a more constructive approach to addressing its issues.
Source:graphic.com.gh
