Veteran actor, director and cultural advocate William Addo, widely known by his stage name Akpatse, has passed away on November 22, 2025, after years of battling severe health complications.
Akpatse’s illustrious career spanned several decades, establishing him as one of the most cherished figures in Ghanaian theatre and television. He rose to prominence through his unforgettable performances on GTV’s Thursday Theatre, where his comic brilliance, distinctive style and commanding stage presence won him admiration nationwide.
Beyond his acting talent, Mr. Addo was also revered as a committed scholar of the arts. He earned a degree in Drama and Theatre Studies from the University of Ghana and later pursued a master’s degree in Acting and Directing at the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom.
His influence stretched far beyond the stage and screen. Akpatse served in key leadership roles, including Director at the National Theatre and Director of Programmes at the National Commission on Culture. As a lecturer in the Theatre Arts Department, he mentored and shaped the careers of many of Ghana’s leading actors and creative professionals.
In his later years, he struggled with serious health issues, including visual impairment resulting from glaucoma and cataracts.
Details regarding his funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.
