I Don’t Own a House After 4 Decades in Acting – Auntie B

Veteran Ghanaian actress Harriet Naa Akleh Okanteh, popularly known as Auntie B, has opened up about the financial realities of her decades-long acting career, revealing that she has not been able to acquire a house or any major property despite spending more than 40 years in the country’s film industry.

Speaking in an interview, the celebrated “Efiewura” star said she has little to show financially for her years of dedication to acting, explaining that the profession was not lucrative enough during the early stages of her career.

“After all these years in acting, I don’t have a house or any property I can proudly say I acquired from the money I earned through acting. I’m not ashamed to admit it because that’s the reality,” she said.

According to Auntie B, her primary source of income over the years has been her work as a master of ceremonies rather than acting. She explained that MC engagements enabled her to care for herself and raise her children, although such opportunities have become increasingly difficult to secure due to growing competition.

She disclosed that she now sells small items to supplement her income, stressing that she cannot afford to remain idle while waiting for opportunities.

Speaking about the kind of assistance she would welcome, the actress said she would appreciate support in the form of a house or a vehicle. She recalled that Rev. Obofour once gifted her a car, for which she remains grateful, but noted that the vehicle has developed serious mechanical faults and is currently undergoing repairs.

Auntie B also expressed concern about how veteran actors are treated whenever they speak publicly about their financial challenges.

“Many veteran actors refuse interviews because people accuse them of begging when they simply answer questions honestly about their lives,” she stated.

Reflecting on the evolution of Ghana’s movie industry, she said the sector generated limited income during the peak of her career. By the time better financial opportunities emerged, many veteran actors had been replaced by a younger generation.

Despite the challenges, Auntie B said she remains proud of her contribution to Ghana’s film industry and hopes greater support will be extended to veteran creatives who helped shape the country’s entertainment landscape.