Samini calls for better pay for Ghanaian actors

**Samini's Concerns About Actor Pay in Ghana**

Renowned Dancehall artist Samini has raised concerns about actor pay in Ghana. He believes the current pay structure does not reflect the effort actors put into their work.

Speaking on a podcast, Samini shared his experiences on movie sets. He understands the challenges actors face, especially regarding compensation. When asked why he hasn’t pursued acting seriously, he said the industry is too draining.

“It’s a very, very draining profession,” he noted. He respects the film industry but believes actors deserve better pay.

Samini highlighted that actors are underpaid compared to musicians. He compared performance rates for musicians and actor fees in 2025. A-list musicians can earn between GHS 150,000 to GHS 250,000 for live performances.

In contrast, A-list actors struggle to make GHS 10,000 to GHS 25,000 for an entire movie project. This often requires them to spend up to three weeks on set. Some big names might push for GHS 20,000 to GHS 25,000 depending on who hires them.

Lesser-known actors may receive as little as GHS 2,000 for weeks of work. This is starkly different from musicians earning GHS 15,000 for just three songs. “It’s crazy; something has to be done about it,” he stated passionately.

Samini advocates for a standardized pay structure in the film industry. He suggests setting a minimum pay rate so that actors are fairly compensated. “There should be some form of monitoring,” he proposed.

He believes A-list actors should earn at least GHS 50,000 per movie. B-list actors should get at least GHS 30,000 and no mainstream actor should earn less than GHS 15,000 for any role.

A structured payment system could improve actors' livelihoods and enhance Ghanaian films' quality. Samini urged producers and directors to reconsider how they compensate actors.

“I think you can afford to pay them slightly more,” he emphasized. The hard work of actors deserves recognition like that of musicians.

His comments have sparked discussions about financial realities in Ghana's acting scene. Many hope Samini’s voice will inspire change for better pay and conditions for Ghanaian actors.

As this conversation continues, there is hope that the film industry can thrive alongside music in the coming years.