Apart from juju, what better role can you play – Ghanaian director blasts Kanayo

Ghanaian filmmaker Jones Agyemang has taken a swipe at veteran Nigerian actor Kanayo O. Kanayo following remarks the latter reportedly made about Ghanaian actors and their contributions to the African film industry.

Agyemang questioned Kanayo’s assessment of Ghanaian performers, suggesting that the Nigerian actor should be more measured when commenting on the abilities and achievements of colleagues from Ghana.

In a sharp response, the Ghanaian director appeared to challenge Kanayo to point to roles beyond the spiritual and ritual-themed characters for which he has become widely recognised. He sarcastically asked: “Apart from juju, what better role can you play?”

The comment has added a fresh layer to an ongoing conversation about the differences in acting styles, career achievements and representation within Ghana’s and Nigeria’s entertainment industries.

Kanayo O. Kanayo, who has enjoyed a long and successful career in Nollywood, is particularly associated with roles involving traditional beliefs, spiritual practices, occult themes and powerful family figures. His performances have made him one of the recognisable faces of Nigerian cinema.

However, Agyemang’s remarks suggest that he believes Kanayo’s comments about Ghanaian actors may have crossed a line, prompting him to defend the talents and reputation of Ghanaian performers.

The exchange has since generated interest among entertainment followers, with some viewers debating whether actors from both countries should focus on collaboration rather than comparisons and criticism.

Ghana and Nigeria have historically shared strong cultural and entertainment ties, with actors, producers and filmmakers from both countries frequently appearing in each other’s productions. Their film industries have also influenced audiences across Africa and beyond.

As the debate continues, Agyemang’s response is likely to fuel further discussion about the standards by which African actors are judged and whether established stars should be more cautious when assessing colleagues from neighbouring countries.

Abina Dogbeda feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com