Isaac Arthur Calls for Standardised Pay Structure to Empower Ghanaian Actors. Actor and creative industry advocate Isaac Kofi Arthur is urging stakeholders in the Ghanaian film industry to introduce a standardized payment structure that ensures fair compensation for actors.
According to him, such a system would provide economic empowerment, especially for young and upcoming actors, who often receive inadequate pay for their efforts. Speaking in an interview on Tuesday, April 8, Isaac explained that standardized pay is the norm in many countries, but Ghana continues to lag behind.
He pointed fingers at the Ghana Actors Guild, citing its prolonged court disputes and lack of effective leadership as reasons for the industry’s stagnation.
“As both an actor and industry advocate, I believe our film space has numerous challenges. One major issue is the lack of fixed rates for actors,” he stated.
“There should be proper payment structures for lead roles, supporting actors, extras, and even A-list performers, but unfortunately, that’s not happening. This gap allows producers to exploit the system.”
He lamented that many young actors earn as little as GHS 150 for full-day work on set, especially in extra roles. After deducting transport and food costs, they’re left with next to nothing, he said.
“Meanwhile, the Ghana Actors Guild is tied up in legal battles instead of advocating for the welfare of its members,” he added.
Isaac’s sentiments echo recent concerns raised by actress Beverly Afaglo, who told Graphic Showbiz that producers often favour personal connections over actual talent when casting roles. She noted that this practice undermines quality and compromises professionalism in the industry.
Isaac agreed with Beverly’s concerns, adding:
“It’s unfortunate that casting decisions are influenced more by who you know than what you can do. This compromises the quality of our productions and stifles the growth of the entire film industry. A strong, functioning Ghana Actors Guild could help tackle this issue.”