The last week has been a rather solemn week as more and more celebrities become things of the past. From the USA to the South Africa, fans and critics are paying their respects, tributes and condolences to recently deceased entertainment stars
But it’s not all doom and gloom, we’ve also got some juicy drama coming up in Nolly wood and the Ghanaian entertainment scene. Stay with us!
Funny Face Warns Ghanaian Youth Against Drug Abuse
Ghanaian comedian Benson Nana Yaw Oduro Boateng, popularly known as Funny Face, has issued a heartfelt warning to the youth. He is urging them to avoid drugs. In an interview, he opened up about his struggles with drugs and its devastating impact on his life. Right in the same vein, he revealed that turning to drugs during difficult times only worsened his problems rather than providing relief. Additionally, Funny Face emphasized that drugs are not a solution to life’s challenges, stating, “Say no to drugs because when I went through challenges, I took some, and it didn’t help me. When you’re going through challenges and you take drugs, it worsens.”
The comedian also directed his advice to fellow creatives in the entertainment industry, encouraging them to steer clear of drugs and seek help when facing personal struggles. He stressed the importance of open communication and emotional support, sharing his own experience as a cautionary tale. “Most of these creatives, I’ll tell them to stay away from drugs, and they shouldn’t bottle things up inside them. When you’re going through something, talk to somebody. That’s what happened to me. I didn’t talk to people. For a broken heart, I’m a living testimony that it nearly finished me,” he said.
Funny Face’s message stems from his personal journey through mental health challenges and substance abuse. These experiences have made him a vocal advocate for mental well-being and sobriety. His advice serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of drug abuse. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of addressing emotional struggles through open dialogue and professional help. His resilience and willingness to share his story highlight the need for greater awareness and support for mental health issues in Ghana and beyond.
Omoni Oboli Threatens Ghanaian Entertainment/Media Houses With Legal Action Over Unlicensed Movie Broadcasts
Nollywood actress Omoni Oboli has threatened to take legal action against Ghanaian TV stations for airing her movies without obtaining the necessary licenses. In a strongly worded social media post, the actress expressed her frustration, accusing the stations of blatantly disregarding her intellectual property rights. The Nigerian movie-star, questioned whether Ghana has a regulatory body overseeing TV stations’ activities, stating, “If dem no arrest one of una, you won’t learn! Watch out! Coming for every one of you!”
Oboli highlighted the immense effort and dedication involved in producing her movies, including countless sleepless nights. She expressed her determination to hold the stations accountable, vowing to ensure they pay for every movie shown without permission. “You have no idea how much work goes into these projects! The sleepless nights I have! I’m coming for it all! You will pay for every one of my movies you have shown without permission!” she wrote. The actress also thanked her Ghanaian fans, whom she referred to as “besties,” for bringing the issue to her attention by sharing screenshots of the unauthorized broadcasts.
The 46-year-old actress’s statement underscores the ongoing challenges faced by creatives in protecting their intellectual property. Her threat of legal action serves as a stern warning to TV stations engaging in such practices. It also highlights the need for stronger enforcement of copyright laws in the entertainment industry. Oboli’s stance reflects a growing demand for respect and fair compensation for the hard work and creativity of filmmakers across Africa.
Former “Baywatch” Star, Pamela Bach-Hasselhoff Dies at 61
Former “Baywatch” actress Pamela Bach-Hasselhoff was pronounced dead at her California home on March 6 at the age of 61. Law enforcement sources revealed that she died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head after family members, concerned about not hearing from her, called for a wellness check. Medics arrived to find her unconscious, and she was pronounced dead at the scene. No suicide note was left behind.
Bach-Hasselhoff, who was married to David Hasselhoff from 1989 to 2006, had a successful acting career. She starred in films like “Rumblefish” and TV shows such as “The Young and the Restless” and “Baywatch.” Her divorce from Hasselhoff was acrimonious, with ongoing disputes over spousal support as recently as 2017. Hasselhoff, who remarried in 2018, expressed his deep sadness over her passing, stating, “Our family is deeply saddened by the recent passing of Pamela Hasselhoff. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time but we kindly request privacy as we grieve.”
Just a few, hours before her death, Bach-Hasselhoff shared an optimistic final message on Instagram. In the post, she reflected on the joy her grandchild brought her. She wrote, “Happy New Year, everyone! As we step into 2025, my heart is full of gratitude, especially for my precious grandbaby, London. Watching her grow and seeing her smile light up my world is truly the greatest blessing.” Her message ended on a hopeful note, wishing her followers health, happiness, and love in the new year. Her tragic death has left fans and loved ones mourning the loss of a talented actress and devoted grandmother.
South African Entertainment Star, Ebenhaezer Dibakwane Passes Away at 31
Well-known South African comedian and actor Ebenhaezer Dibakwane has died at the age of 31. His agency, Pickedginger, confirmed the news in a statement, describing him as a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. “A friend to so many, he will be remembered for his off-the-wall humour, original style of stand-up comedy, and the joy he brought to audiences across South Africa,” the statement read. Dibakwane was known for his roles in films such as “Divorced at 50,” “Real Estate Sisters,” and “Miseducation.”
Born in 1994, Dibakwane was considered one of the first comedic voices of South Africa’s “Born Free” generation. He rose to fame after winning the Newcomer’s Award at the 2016 Savanna Comic’s Choice Awards and later earned accolades for his scriptwriting, including a SAFTA nomination. His agency expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and promised to share details about memorial and funeral services in due course.
Dibakwane’s untimely death has left a void in the South African entertainment industry, with fans and colleagues mourning the loss of a talented and vibrant performer. His legacy as a trailblazing comedian and writer will continue to inspire future generations of creatives in the country.
Hull to Reapply for UNESCO Creative City of Music Status
Hull is set to reapply for UNESCO Creative City of Music status after its initial bid was unsuccessful. The city submitted its first application in January, outlining a five-year plan to establish itself as a “global leader” in music creation and experience. Also, despite the setback, Councillor Rob Pritchard, who leads on culture at Hull City Council, expressed optimism, citing “incredibly positive feedback” from UNESCO. He confirmed that an “even stronger bid” would be submitted in 2027.
The UNESCO Creative Cities Network aims to promote cooperation among cities that prioritize creativity as a driver of sustainable urban development. Pritchard highlighted the potential for success with second-time bids, stating, “We’ll be working very hard, taking on all the responses, to ensure our next bid is something that will blow the board away.” Hull’s rich musical heritage, including contributions from artists like The Housemartins and Mick Ronson, forms the foundation of its bid.
Furthermore, grassroots initiatives such as the Humber Street Sesh, an annual music festival showcasing local talent, have bolstered Hull’s reputation as a hub for community-led culture. Mark Page, the festival’s director, emphasized the city’s potential, stating, “Hull produces some of the greatest talent in the country and deserves to be on the map.” The renewed bid reflects Hull’s commitment to celebrating and nurturing its vibrant music scene on a global stage.
Final Words
And there we have it! This week’s dose of entertainment trends and more! We at Trickle Media send our condolences to the loved ones of the deceased. In addition, we also advise people to stay away from drugs, it does more harm than good. We further wish everyone a wonderful new week and hope to meet you next time on our weekly entertainment trend report!
