Legendary Ghanaian actor William Addo, popularly known as “Akpatse,” has died at the age of 72. He passed away peacefully on November 22, 2025, after years of battling significant health complications.
Mr Addo was a towering figure in Ghana’s creative arts industry, celebrated as an actor, director, lecturer, and cultural advocate. His memorable performances on GTV’s Thursday Theatre and in numerous stage and television productions earned him nationwide admiration for his humor, versatility, and commanding presence.
He studied drama and theatre studies at the University of Ghana and later obtained a master’s degree in acting and directing from the University of Leeds in the UK. His academic background shaped a distinguished career both on stage and in teaching.
Mr Addo served in several leadership positions, including Director at the National Theatre and Director of Programmes at the National Commission on Culture. He also lectured at the University of Ghana’s Theatre Arts Department, where he mentored many of Ghana’s well-known actors and filmmakers.
In his later years, he struggled with severe health issues, including vision loss from glaucoma and cataracts. Even so, he remained deeply respected for his resilience and dedication to the arts.
Mr Addo leaves behind a remarkable legacy that continues to influence Ghanaian theatre, film and cultural expression.