Accra: Entertainment pundit Arnold Asamoah Baidoo has urged the government to accord the late veteran actress Grace Nortey a state-assisted funeral, emphasizing her significant contributions to Ghana's creative arts industry and the need for national recognition of her work.
According to Ghana Web, Arnold expressed his views on United Showbiz, noting that while a full state burial might not be feasible, the government should extend support to the family through a state-assisted funeral. He articulated that such a gesture would reflect the importance of Grace Nortey's legacy in the entertainment sector. "She actually lived; she projected the industry to that point where she deserves it. Even if they can't give her a state burial, it should be a state funeral. Whichever way, I am sure the state will be involved," he stated.
Arnold further explained that a state-assisted funeral could include financial support, provision of a venue, or other resources to aid the family with funeral arrangements. He highlighted that the government often provides such assistance when a full state burial isn't possible, offering resources like a venue or monetary support. "In recent times, if the state cannot do a state burial, they give a state-assisted burial. What it means is the government will give certain resources. It could be a venue or other things that will help the family halfway, sometimes it could be a money package," Arnold elucidated.
Reflecting on Grace Nortey's legacy, Arnold commended her diverse contributions to the entertainment industry across radio, television, and film. He acknowledged her multifaceted roles and noted her impact on radio and television, including her work with Thursday Theatre, TV Theatre, and Time with NAFTI. "She has done very well for the industry. I didn't even know she had done radio. I just read her profile and got to know she started with radio and TV, Thursday Theatre, TV Theatre, Time with NAFTI and, of course, movies," he added.
Arnold also reminisced about Grace Nortey's memorable on-screen rivalries, particularly with Grace Omaboe and Mac Jordan Amartey, which left a lasting impression on audiences. "When you take away her constant banter with Grace Omaboe (Maame Dokono), which we always remember her by, another thing we remember her for, is her banter with Mac Jordan Amartey. Anytime they met in a movie, you knew there would be a clash. She was so feisty," he recalled.