Legendary Ghanaian actor William Addo, famously known as ‘Akpatse’, has died at the age of 72. He passed away on November 22, 2025, after battling years of health challenges, including glaucoma and cataract-related vision loss.
Despite these difficulties, Addo’s impact on Ghana’s arts scene remained profound, and he was admired for his resilience and unwavering dedication to his craft.
A multifaceted artist, Addo was an actor, lecturer, director, and cultural advocate who left an enduring legacy in Ghana’s creative arts industry. His memorable performances on GTV’s Thursday Theatre and other productions made him a beloved household name, celebrated for his wit, humor, and stage presence.
Addo began his acting career on stage and honed his skills at the University of Ghana’s School of Performing Arts, where he was later retained as a teaching assistant. He furthered his education in the UK, earning a master’s degree in Acting and Directing from the University of Leeds.
His academic expertise translated into leadership roles in the arts, including serving as Director at the National Theatre and Director of Programmes at the National Commission on Culture. At the National Theatre, he oversaw concert party productions and helped elevate their national profile.
Addo also mentored many of Ghana’s leading actors and filmmakers through his lectures at the University of Ghana’s Theatre Arts Department. He later served as Regional Director of the Centre for National Culture in the Volta Region, where he retired, leaving behind a rich legacy of artistic excellence.
