By GhanaNewsPage 
Ghanaian actor Jeffery Nortey has sparked conversation within the entertainment industry after boldly calling out local film producers for sidelining loyal, hardworking actors once their projects receive larger budgets or gain international funding.
In a passionate statement, Nortey expressed deep disappointment over a growing trend he says is harming the future of Ghana’s film industry: producers ignoring the actors who stood by them during their low-budget struggles, only to chase after ‘more famous’ or foreign faces when the money starts flowing.
According to Jeffery, this lack of consistency and gratitude is not only damaging to careers but also undermining the development of homegrown talent.
“We’ve built this industry with sweat, sacrifice, and loyalty. But once the opportunity comes, we are ghosted for shiny names. It’s disappointing,” Nortey lamented.
A Growing Concern in the Film Industry
Jeffery Nortey’s remarks reflect sentiments shared by many Ghanaian actors who feel increasingly undervalued in their own industry. For years, up-and-coming actors have partnered with small production houses, accepting modest roles and often working under challenging conditions in hopes of long-term collaboration and recognition.
However, the current trend sees many producers, after acquiring sponsorships or landing streaming deals, opting to cast ‘bigger’ names — often foreign-based stars — at the expense of the actors who helped build the brand or series in the first place.
Nortey argues that this practice discourages loyalty, disrespects talent, and contributes to a growing divide between emerging and already established names in the film industry.
The Impact on Ghana’s Creative Growth
The Ghanaian entertainment scene, especially film, is in a season of steady growth, with increased attention from international platforms, partnerships, and film festivals. Yet Jeffery Nortey warns that this growth must be grounded in sustainable practices, including nurturing the actors who helped carry the industry during its difficult years.
“If we keep replacing loyalty with trends, we are not building an industry — we’re building moments that won’t last,” Nortey noted. “Talented actors are losing motivation. Many are stepping away from acting because they feel used and discarded.”
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This emotional toll is real. According to insiders, several actors who began their careers with high hopes are now seeking alternate professions due to the instability and lack of appreciation within the industry.
Calling for Ethical Casting and Long-Term Vision
Nortey emphasized that he is not against producers growing their work or seeking high-profile names for commercial success. Instead, he advocates for balance and integrity.
“I understand that budgets open doors. But why can’t we have both? Why not integrate the loyal actors who held you down when no one was watching, even if in supporting roles?” he questioned.
He called for film producers to adopt ethical casting policies that prioritize continuity and reward loyalty, especially in multi-series projects and long-term productions.
Industry Players React
Jeffery’s comments have stirred a wave of support from fellow actors and creatives who believe it’s time to have honest conversations about how success is shared in Ghana’s creative industry.
Many have applauded Nortey for using his platform to advocate for others, calling his words a bold and necessary reminder that the entertainment business should not lose its human touch in the pursuit of profit.
Others have suggested that the Ghana Actors Guild and other bodies step in to mediate and develop structures that ensure fair treatment of actors, especially as Ghana’s movie scene continues to attract global interest.
Looking Ahead: Building a Stronger Industry
As Ghana continues to rise on the global entertainment radar, Jeffery Nortey’s statement serves as a wake-up call to everyone involved — producers, directors, casting agents, and even streaming platforms — to think long-term and ethically.
The industry’s future success will depend not only on budget and branding but also on the strength of relationships, trust, and respect built along the way.
#Jeffery Nortey
