Legendary Ghanaian actor William “Akpatse” Addo, whose distinguished career shaped the country’s theatre and film culture, has died at age 72.
Family sources confirmed that he passed away peacefully on November 22, 2025, following years of serious health complications.
Addo, affectionately known across Ghana as Akpatse, was more than an actor, he was a lecturer, director, cultural advocate, and one of the most influential voices in Ghana’s creative arts industry.
His unforgettable performances on GTV’s Thursday Theatre and other stage and screen projects earned him nationwide admiration for his humor, depth, and magnetic presence.
A proud alumnus of the University of Ghana, Addo studied Drama and Theatre Studies before advancing to the University of Leeds in the UK, where he obtained a master’s degree in Acting and Directing. His academic journey greatly enriched his craft and deepened his contribution to the country’s arts ecosystem.
Over the years, he held several leadership roles, including Director at the National Theatre and Director of Programmes at the National Commission on Culture. He also lectured in the Theatre Arts Department, nurturing the talents of many actors who now lead Ghana’s entertainment landscape.
In his later life, Addo battled significant health challenges, including visual impairment caused by glaucoma and cataracts. Despite these setbacks, he remained respected for his resilience and unwavering dedication to theatre and cultural development.
Tributes continue to pour in from colleagues, students, and admirers who describe him as a pillar of Ghanaian performing arts.
