Martha Ankomah on colourism in Ghana’s film industry: 'The pressure to bleach was too much'

Ghanaian actress Martha Ankomah has boldly addressed the issue of colourism in the movie industry, revealing the silent pressure many dark-skinned actors face to bleach their skin.

Speaking at the PCH Hangouts 2025 Edition, she recounted being told by a producer that her dark skin wouldn't "shine" under studio lights.

This bias, she said, has led several colleagues to alter their appearance. “Most of my colleagues started bleaching,” she shared.

Ankomah, however, resisted the pressure, attributing her choice to faith, wisdom, and her upbringing. She acknowledged the tough journey in an industry once without the social media exposure available today.

On rumors of actors compromising values for roles, she noted such temptations exist everywhere, adding, “It takes the grace of God for you to say no.”