Actor and comedian Jeffrey Nortey has criticised what he describes as a growing culture of disloyalty within Ghana’s film industry, calling out producers who sideline dependable actors once their budgets improve.
In a candid social media post, Nortey expressed disappointment over producers who rely on committed, lesser-known talents during financially difficult periods, only to replace them with more famous faces when funding arrives.
“It’s really disheartening how some Ghanaian filmmakers operate,” he wrote. “When funds are low, they call on the familiar, dependable faces… But the moment they secure the budget they’ve been chasing, they suddenly ‘upgrade’ and go for the actors they’ve always dreamed of working with, completely sidelining those who held them down when no one else would.”
The actor, known for his performances in productions such as YOLO, Swings, and Slumber Party, pointed out that many rising actors contribute far beyond what is required, often helping to promote films and build engagement even when resources are limited.
“It’s often the so-called lesser-known actors who go all out, constantly posting, engaging fans, and doing everything they can to help a film succeed. Visibility doesn’t come from status alone—it comes from effort,” he added.
Nortey’s comments have sparked widespread discussion across the entertainment community, with many young actors and fans echoing his sentiments. Some argue that the industry’s obsession with celebrity casts often comes at the expense of real talent and loyalty.
As the debate grows louder, Nortey’s post stands as a rare but necessary call for fairness and recognition in an industry where hard work and consistency are too often overlooked in favour of big names and quick returns.
