Veteran Ghanaian actor William Addo, known to many as Akpatse, has died at the age of 72 after years of declining health. His family announced that he passed away on November 22 following complications linked to prolonged eye conditions that had left him completely blind.
Addo was regarded as one of the pillars of Ghana’s theatre and screen tradition. A graduate of the University of Ghana’s School of Performing Arts, he later earned a master’s degree in acting and directing from the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom. His training shaped a career that stretched across stage performance, television drama, film production and cultural administration.
He emerged as a household name during the era of television drama on the national broadcaster, where his range and timing made him a favourite. On stage, he took on major roles with notable theatre groups and later directed concert party productions at the National Theatre. He also spent years in public service, working with the National Commission on Culture and returning to academia as a lecturer in theatre arts, where he mentored younger performers.
In his later years Addo faced severe health challenges. He spoke publicly about losing his sight after developing glaucoma and cataracts and about the personal and financial strain that came with managing the conditions. His disclosures drew widespread sympathy from the arts community and the public.
Tributes have poured in from actors, directors and former students who described him as warm, disciplined and generous with his craft. Many noted that his influence extended far beyond the screen, shaping the outlook and abilities of performers who would later define contemporary Ghanaian theatre and film.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
