Ghana and Nigeria most of the time have what some might call a ‘friendly rivalry’. They have their differences and disagree on many things, but at the end of the day, they remain deeply connected.
When it comes to entertainment, the fusion of talents of these two powerhouse nations is always a spectacle. The combination of Ghallywood and Nollywood has produced some truly remarkable moments on screen.
In this article, we spotlight 15 actors who have left a mark on Nollywood and have become familiar faces in the industry.
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Van Vicker
Ghanaian actor, Van Vicker. Source IG: @iam_vanvicker
Born 1st August 1977, currently 47 years old, Joseph van Vicker popularly known as Van Vicker is an award-winning, pacesetting Ghanaian actor, film producer, and CEO of Sky + Orange production. He was born in Accra, Ghana to a Ghanaian-Liberian mother and a Dutch father who sadly passed away when he was six years old.
Vicker’s journey in the entertainment world began in radio working at radio stations such as Groove FM and Vibe FM. He has worked as a TV personality for TV3 Ghana and Metro TV.
His big break came in the mid-2000s when he was cast in Divine Love. Released in 2004, the film would set the stage for his rise in Nollywood. His charming looks. Vicker’s charming looks and smooth delivery made him a favorite, especially in romantic roles. Starring in back-to-back hits with top actresses like Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Mercy Johnson, and Genevieve Nnaji, he became the face of the ‘lover boy’ era.
Through his roles in films like Beyonce & Rihanna, Princess Tyra, and Mummy’s Daughter, Vicker built a fan base and gained popularity in Nigeria. His ability to seamlessly fit into the Nigerian film industry made him one of the first Ghanaian actors to be fully embraced by Nollywood audiences.
Though he remains Ghanaian by birth, Nollywood has been a significant part of his career, and he continues to be one of the most recognized Ghanaian faces in the Nigerian film industry.
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Majid Michel
Ghanaian actor, Majid Micheal. Source: IG @majidmichelmm
Majid Michel, born on the 22nd of September 1980, currently 44 is a multi-award-winning Ghanaian actor, model, and evangelist.
Majid was born in the Cantonments, a suburb of Accra but had big dreams and passion for acting. His father was Lebanese while his mother is a Ghanaian. While in the Mfantsipim Boys Secondary School, Majid became active in the school’s drama club. He performed during Emancipation Day and Majid would end up winning the Best Actor award.
To develop his skills in acting, Majid enrolled at the Academy of Screen Arts, where he spent five years learning to become a pro actor.
Majid’s rise in Nollywood kicked off with his debut in Emerald in 2009, alongside Genevieve Nnaji. Their chemistry in this movie kept Nollywood fans wanting more. His popularity grew further with his performance in Silent Scandals. He quickly became the go-to actor for roles involving love and seduction, further cementing his status in Nigeria’s movie industry.
He has acted in multiple movies and earned an Africa Movie Academy Award for his role in Somewhere in Africa alongside other awards. Michel appeared in the blockbuster 30 Days in Atlanta, and other successful films, marking his return to Nollywood and solidifying his place as an A-lister in the industry.
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John Dumelo
Ghanaian actor and politician John Dumelo, Source IG: @johndumelo1
Born on February 3, 1984, and currently 41 years old, John Setor Dumelo is a Ghanaian actor, farmer, and politician. He is the son of Mr. John Dumelo, a civil engineer, and Mrs. Antoinette Dumelo, a customs officer.
John’s journey into acting began early. While attending the Christ the King International School in Accra, he was selected by GAMA Film Company to play a role in the movie Baby Thief. This early exposure ignited his passion for performative arts. He continued his education at Achimota School and later pursued Civil Engineering at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology.
In the mid-2000s, John broke into the Nigerian film industry with captivating performances in movies like The King is Mine and Heart of Men. It showcased his versatility and endeared him to audiences beyond Ghana. Collaborating with prominent actors in Nollywood such as Ramsey Nouah, Tonto Dikeh, and Sam Dede, Dumelo became a familiar face in Nigerian cinema.
John Dumelo’s journey from a child actor to a recognized figure in Nollywood and a dedicated public servant exemplifies his multifaceted talents and commitment to societal advancement.
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Chris Attoh
Portrait, Ghanaian actor, Chris Attoh. Source IG: @chrisattoh
Born on May 17, 1979, Christopher Keith Nii Attoh, affectionately known as Chris Attoh, is a Ghanaian actor, producer, director, and television presenter.
Currently years old, Chris’s educational journey took him through the New York Film Academy, Achimota School, Accra Academy, and KNUST where he studied for a Bachelor of Art in Painting degree.
Many fans remember him as Kwameh Mensah from the Nigerian soap opera Tinsel. A show that showcased his acting prowess, and increased his popularity in the Nigeria film industry. Chris’s abilities go beyond acting, spanning theater, film, and television, not just in Ghana and Nigeria, but also in South Africa, London, and the United States.
In recent years, Chris has channeled his passion into filmmaking. With his production company aFactory Entertainment Limited, he aims to create meaningful content that resonates with audiences and meets the rising demand for authentic African narratives.
Chris Attoh’s journey is a testament to his versatility and dedication. From his early days in Ghana to his international endeavors, he continues to be an inspiration to many with his commitment to storytelling and the film industry.
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Prince David Osei
Ghanaian actor, Prince David Osei. Source: @princedavidosei
Prince David Osei, born 6 December 1983, and currently years old, is a Ghanaian actor, model, producer, and director. He has made significant contributions to both Ghanaian cinema and Nollywood, Nigeria’s vibrant film industry.
Prince David’s journey into Nollywood began with roles in films like Fortune Island and Forbidden Fruit, where he demonstrated his acting prowess. His excellent performances resonated with audiences gaining him significant popularity in Nigeria.
Prince David has collaborated with notable Nollywood actors throughout his career. In the film Heart of Men, he shared the screen with Majid Michel, John Dumelo, and Yvonne Nelson, delivering a fascinating performance that highlighted his ability to portray complex characters.
Osei’s dedication to his craft and his seamless integration into Nollywood has solidified his reputation as a talented actor.
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Adjetey Anang
Born on July 8, 1973, Adjetey Anang, popularly known as “Pusher” from his iconic role in the TV series Things We Do for Love, is a celebrated Ghanaian actor whose talent has contributed to bridging the gap between Ghanaian cinema and Nollywood.
Anang’s journey into Nollywood started with him starring in the 2013 action thriller Potomanto. In this film, he delivered a stellar act alongside Nigerian veteran Olu Jacobs and actress Yvonne Okoro, showing his connection with Nigerian audiences.
Further solidifying his presence in Nollywood, Anang featured in the romantic comedy Potato Potato alongside Nollywood stars OC Ukeje, Joke Silva, and Blossom Chukwujekwu.
Beyond these notable collaborations, Anang has continued to engage with Nollywood through various projects and partnerships, reflecting his dedication to the craft and passion for bridging cultural gaps.
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Kofi Adrolo
Veteran actor Kofi Adjrolo. Source : Who’s Who In Ghana
Born on June 23, 1956, Kofi Adjorlolo is one of Ghana’s most respected actors. While he made a name for himself in Ghanaian cinema, Nollywood welcomed his talent, making him a familiar face in many Nigerian films.
The now year-old pacesetter’s journey in Nollywood started in the 2000s when Ghanaian actors started gaining more prominence in Nigeria’s film industry.
He has shared the screen with Nollywood legends such as Pete Edochie, Ngozi Ezeonu, and Kenneth Okonkwo, particularly in epic and family drama films. His performance in My Mother’s Heart alongside Patience Ozokwor and Mercy Johnson showed his ability to command respect while acting in fatherly roles.
Adjorlolo has also worked on numerous productions that highlight the strong synergy between Nollywood and Ghanaian cinema. Despite decades in the game, Kofi Adjorlolo remains active, delivering performances that remind audiences why he is one of the most respected actors to have crossed over successfully into Nollywood.
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Eddie Watson
Ghanaian actor Eddie Watson. Source: IG @eddiewatsonjr
Eddie Samuel Obong Watson Jr., famously known as Eddie Watson, is a Liberian-born Ghanaian actor who has carved a strong presence in Nollywood with his charming on-screen appeal and impressive acting range.
He started his acting career in Ghana, but Nollywood became a second hometown to him, embracing his talent and he’s become a key player in many Nigerian movies.
Eddie broke into Nollywood in the early 2010s with his breakout role in Single and Married where he starred alongside Yvonne Nelson and Chris Attoh, introducing him to a wider Nigerian audience. But his performance in House Of Gold solidified his reputation as a bankable actor.
The now year old, has played in everything from romantic roles to complex family roles. He has collaborated with top Nollywood stars such as Alexx Ekubo, Uche Jombo, and Ini Edo, smoothly blending into the Nigerian film industry.
Beyond acting, Eddie Watson has also ventured into filmmaking, using his platform to tell impactful stories. He has solidified his presence in Nollywood and will forever be a welcomed and respected figure.
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James Gardiner
Ghanaian actor James Gardiner. Source: IG @jamesgardinergh
Known as the Ghanaian actor with a smile as charming as his on-screen presence, James Gardiner, born May 16, 1985, currently years old has steadily built a name for himself in Nollywood. He also holds an award for the City People Movie Award for Best Supporting Actor of the Year (Ghana).
Gardiner’s journey into Nollywood began with romantic dramas. His good looks and natural charisma made him a fan favorite. One of his biggest Nollywood roles was when he was featured in the movie A Night With Her where he starred alongside Belinda Effah and Ik Ogbonna. His chemistry with stars like Bimbo Ademoye, Nancy Isime, and Tana Adelan has been a highlight in many of his projects.
Apart from love/romance roles, Gardiner has flexed his acting muscles in more emotionally charged performances in movies like Love or Something Like That.
Beyond his work in Nollywood, he has also been a TV presenter and brand ambassador, proving his versatility in the entertainment industry.
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Enock Darkoo
Ghanaian actor Enock Darko aka watabombshell. Source: IG @watabombshell
Enock Darko, widely known as “Watabombshell,” is one of the most vibrant Ghanaian actors making waves in Nollywood. He was born on December 31, 1996, in Accra, Ghana, to a Nigerian mother and a Ghanaian father.
While he had a promising start in Ghana’s film industry, it was in Nollywood that Enock truly found his stride. His journey into Nollywood began with comic roles. His natural humor and hilarious expressions made him an instant favorite. He quickly became a go-to actor for comedy and family-centered movies, starring alongside Nollywood’s comedy greats like Charles Inojie, Nkem Owoh, and Chinedu Ikedieze.
His collaborations with Nollywood stars like Destiny Etiko, Uju Okoli, and Zubby Michael have further cemented his presence in the Nigerian film industry.
Today, Enock Darko is not just a Ghanaian actor who found success in Nollywood; he has fully immersed himself in the industry, delivering memorable performances that resonate with audiences across Africa.
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Koby Maxwell
Ghanaian actor Koby Maxwell. Source: IG @realkobymaxwell
Koby Maxwell, born and raised in Ghana, born 25 November 1978, the year old started his career as a musician before expanding into film. His love for performative arts saw him transition from music to Nollywood. He has made a name for himself not just as an actor, but also as a producer with a keen eye for international collaborations.
His Nollywood journey took off when he produced One Night in Vegas, a film that bridged the gap between Hollywood and Nollywood, featuring big names like John Dumelo, Van Vicker, and Yvonne Nelson.
As an actor, Koby has starred alongside Nollywood stars such as Ini Edo, Jim Iyke, and Desmond Elliot. His performances bring an effortless blend of Ghanaian and Nigerian storytelling, making him a familiar face to Nollywood audiences.
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Kweku Elliot
Ghanaian actor Kweku Elliott. Source: IG @kwekuelliott
Kweku Elliott is a Ghanaian actor of Ghanaian and Trinidadian descent, who is also known as “Kay Elliott”. With a deep passion for storytelling, he has steadily built a reputation for himself in both Ghana’s film industry and Nollywood.
His Nollywood journey began with roles that demonstrated his ability to blend into the Nigerian film scene. One of his standout performances was in Shampaig, a political drama where he starred alongside Nollywood’s Ufuoma McDermott.
Kweku’s ability to deliver powerful performances in both Ghanaian and Nigerian productions has made him a sought-after actor. His work in Nollywood proves that talent transcends borders, and he continues to contribute to the industry by taking on roles that challenge him and leave a lasting impact on audiences.
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Eddie Nartey
Ghanaian actor Eddie Nartey. Source: IG @eddienartey
Eddie Nartey, born 6 November 1984, currently years old is a Ghanaian actor, director, and film producer. Born and raised in Ghana, he pursued his love for the arts by studying Theatre Arts at the University of Ghana. What made him one of the standout figures in Ghallywood is his deep understanding of film and performance.
In Nollywood, Eddie Nartey quickly made an impression with his ability to deliver compelling acts, and his developed talent has gotten him to work alongside some of the biggest names in Nigerian cinema, including Ini Edo, Mike Ezuruonye, and Mercy Johnson.
Beyond going into acting professionally, Eddie has made significant contributions behind the scenes as a director and producer. His passion for African cinema has led him to work on projects that merge talents from both Ghana and Nigeria, further strengthening the creative bond between the two peculiar countries.
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Smith Asante
Ghanaian Actor, Ekow-Smith Asante. Source: Ghana Web
Ekow-Smith Asante, born on April 15, 1973, currently , is a multifaceted Ghanaian actor and talent in the African entertainment industry. He was born in Takoradi, Ghana, and pursued Theatre Arts at the University of Ghana, which laid the foundation for his career as an actor, director, producer, and television personality.
In Nollywood, Ekow has fostered numerous collaborations between Ghanaian and Nigerian filmmakers. He has acted alongside notable Nollywood actors, including Ini Edo, Desmond Elliot, and Mercy Johnson, bringing depth and authenticity to his roles. His performances in films like Devil in the Detail (2014) and Who Owns Da City? (2011) have been well-received, showcasing his ability to embody complex characters.
Ekow Smith-Asante’s dedication to creative storytelling has left an indelible mark on Nollywood. His work continues to inspire and pave the way for future collaborations in African cinema.
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Ekow Blankson
Ghanaian actor, Lt. Ekow Blankson. Source: DailyGuide Network
Ekow Blankson, born on March 16, 1972, in Ghana, was a distinguished actor and media professional. He earned a Master’s Degree in Fine Arts and a Diploma in Theatre Arts from the University of Ghana, Legon, and also obtained a marketing certificate from Heineken Global Commerce University in Amsterdam.
Throughout his career, Ekow showcased his versatility by taking on various roles in both Ghanaian and Nigerian productions. In Nollywood, he collaborated with notable actors such as Majid Michel, Yvonne Nelson, and John Dumelo, contributing to films that were loved by many across West Africa.
Ekow’s filmography includes significant works like Checkmate (2010), Secret Burden (2012), and The Pool Party (2011), where he delivered top-notch performances that showed his great acting prowess.
Beyond acting, Ekow held prominent positions in the media industry, serving as the Commercial Manager for GhanaWeb and working with organizations such as TV Africa and Media General Ghana Limited.
Ekow Blankson’s legacy in Nollywood and the broader African entertainment industry is marked by his dedication to storytelling and his efforts to bridge Ghanaian and Nigerian cinema and his contributions continue to inspire and influence actors, setting the bars high for filmmakers across the continent.
