Ghana’s creative community is grieving the loss of one of its finest talents, William Addo, affectionately known as Akpatse, who passed away on November 22, 2025, after a prolonged battle with severe health challenges, including visual impairment.
Akpatse’s career, which spanned several decades, left an indelible mark on Ghanaian theatre and television. He became a household name through his captivating performances on GTV’s iconic “Thursday Theatre”, where his artistry, humour, and emotional depth endeared him to audiences nationwide.
A scholar of the arts, Addo earned degrees from both the University of Ghana and the University of Leeds (UK), specialising in Drama, Theatre Studies, Acting, and Directing. His academic excellence complemented his creative brilliance, positioning him as both a performer and a thought leader in Ghana’s cultural landscape.
Beyond the stage, Akpatse played influential roles within major cultural institutions, including the National Theatre and the National Commission on Culture, where he contributed significantly to policy, mentorship, and the development of national arts programmes. He also served as a lecturer at the University of Ghana, shaping and inspiring a new generation of actors, directors, and creatives.
In his later years, he faced debilitating health challenges, notably glaucoma and cataracts, which severely impacted his vision. Despite these struggles, his passion for the arts and his contributions to Ghana’s cultural evolution remained widely celebrated.
Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
As Ghana bids farewell to William “Akpatse” Addo, his legacy lives on—in the performances that brought joy to millions, the students he nurtured, and the vibrant cultural ecosystem he helped build.
