# Kofi Adjorlolo

Kofi Adjorlolo (born 14 June 1956) is a Ghanaian actor and producer.
He has been nominated once for Best Actor in a Lead Role at the Ghana Movie Awards, and four times for Best Actor in a Supporting Role, at the Ghana Movie Awards, Africa Movie Academy Awards, and the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards. Among the awards he has received are the International Golden Image award from then Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, and the Best Cameo Actor at the 2011 Ghana Movie Awards.

## Early life and education

Adjorlolo was born in Keta, in the Volta region of Ghana. From a young age, he exhibited a keen interest in the arts, particularly in music, which later evolved into a passion for acting. Adjorlolo pursued his education in Ghana, attending the Keta Senior High Technical School, where his talent began to manifest in school plays and other cultural activities. His early exposure to diverse cultural settings contributed significantly to his versatility as an actor, a trait that has defined his career across different genres and roles
Adjorlolo completed AME Zion school in Keta, Ghana and gained admission to Keta Senior High Technical School before obtaining his sixth form certificate from Ebenezer Secondary school, Dansoman. He also attended University of Ghana where he holds a Bachelor's degree in Mass Communication.

## Career

Adjorlolo began his career as a musician, playing instruments including trumpet and organ. In his twenties, he travelled to Nigeria and played with Nigerian musician Victor Uwaifo of Joromi fame. He has also performed with the legendary Felix Bell. On returning to Ghana, he formed the Osagyefo band, and played with the Dasebre band. He worked as a civil servant and a radio presenter at the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation and Peace FM. He was instrumental in establishing the religious radio station Channel R, and was honoured by radio station HOT 93.9FM in Accra for 30 years of service to the showbiz industry. He joined the Ghanaian film industry in 2003.
Adjorlolo’s entry into the entertainment industry was through music, where he played with notable bands like the Uhuru band and the Osagyefo band. His music career was marked by a distinct flair for performance, which he seamlessly transitioned into acting in the late 1990s. Adjorlolo’s early acting roles in Ghanaian films quickly made him a household name, as he brought a unique blend of gravitas and charisma to the screen. His ability to embody various characters with authenticity helped him carve out a niche in the burgeoning Ghanaian film industry

## Notable works and achievements

Over the years, Adjorlolo has starred in numerous films, both in Ghana and Nigeria, earning critical acclaim for his performances. His roles in movies like The Will, Ties that Bind, and Single and Married are particularly noteworthy. Adjorlolo’s performances have earned him several awards, including the Ghana Movie Awards and nominations at the Africa Movie Academy Awards. He also participated in many Ghallywood movies with Yvonne Nelson, Jackie Appiah, John Dumelo, Van Viker, Nadia Buari, Majid Micheal and many other Ghanian celebrities. His contributions to both the Ghanaian and Nigerian film industries have solidified his status as a veteran actor with a lasting legacy

## Impact on the Ghanaian film industry

Adjorlolo’s influence on the Ghanaian film industry cannot be overstated. As one of the pioneering actors of his generation, he played a crucial role in the evolution of the industry from a nascent sector to a more structured and recognized one. Adjorlolo has been a mentor to many young actors, offering guidance and sharing his wealth of experience. His presence in the industry has also helped to bridge the gap between the Ghanaian and Nigerian film markets, fostering collaborations and cross-cultural productions

## Personal life and philanthropy

Beyond his career, Adjorlolo is known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in supporting education and health initiatives in his hometown of Keta. He has often used his platform to advocate for social issues, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the community. His personal life, although occasionally highlighted in the media, remains relatively private, with Adjorlolo focusing more on his professional and charitable activities

## Legacy

Adjorlolo continues to take on new roles. Looking forward, Adjorlolo’s influence is expected to continue shaping the next generation of Ghanaian actors, ensuring that his contributions to the industry endure

## Filmography (selected)

| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
| 2003 | The Chosen One Part 1&2 | Deacon Prempeh | |
| 2006 | My Mother's Heart | Boakye | Nominated for Best Actor (Supporting Role) at the 2nd Africa Movie Academy Awards |
| 2007 | Princess Tyra | King | |
| 2009 | Heart of Men | Bernard | |
| 2009 | Agony of Christ | | |
| 2010 | The Beast | Dr. Brooks | Nominated for Best Actor in a Supporting Role (English) at the 2010 Ghana Movie Awards |
| 2011 | Ties that Bind | Father | |
| 2011 | Somewhere in Africa | General Olemba | Winner, Best Cameo Actor at the 2011 Ghana Movie Awards |
| 2012 | Adesuwa (A Wasted Lust) | |
| 2012 | Single and Married | Ranesh | |
| 2012 | Wipe My Tears | | Nominated for Best Actor in a Lead Role (English) at the 2012 Ghana Movie Awards |
| 2014 | Family Album | | Nominated for Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the 2014 Ghana Movie Awards |
| 2014 | A Northern Affair | |
| 2015 | Code of Silence | | |
| 2015 | Falling | Mr Mazi Mba | |
| 2016 | Ghana Must Go | father | Nominated for Best Supporting Actor Movie/TV series at the 2017 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards |
| 2017 | Crime Suspect | | |
| 2018 | That Night | | |
| 2019 | Hero: Inspired by the Extraordinary Life and Times of Mr. Ulric Cross | Asantehene | |
| 2020 | Aloe Vera | Papa Aloe | |