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The Ghanaian film industry and the global entertainment community are in a period of deep reflection following the passing of notable figures and the celebration of cinema legends. In Ghana, the family of the late actress Beverly Afaglo has officially announced that her final funeral rites will take place on August 7, 2026, at the Lashibi Funeral Home in Greater Accra. This announcement follows a somber one-week memorial held on May 30, where colleagues, family, and fans gathered to release white balloons in a symbolic tribute to her life. Afaglo, a veteran with over two decades in the industry, passed away on May 24, 2026, after a courageous two-year battle with cancer, leaving behind a celebrated legacy in films such as "Return of Beyonce" and "Crime to Christ."
Beyond the funeral arrangements, Afaglo’s passing has ignited a theological debate within the Ghanaian community. Prophet Kofi Oduro has publicly criticized fellow clergyman Prophet Eric Boahen Uche for making controversial public prophecies regarding the actress's death. In a social media address, Oduro condemned the practice of publicizing such revelations, arguing that prophetic messages should be reserved for private intercession and prayer rather than public spectacle. He further chided the trend of mixing spiritual prophecies with trivial matters like football predictions, urging religious leaders to focus on more significant moral and social issues.
On the international stage, the film world is also mourning the loss of US actress Kelly Curtis, who passed away peacefully at the age of 69. Her sister, the Oscar-winning actress Jamie Lee Curtis, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, describing Kelly as her "first friend" and a "talented" performer. Kelly Curtis, the eldest daughter of Hollywood icons Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh, was known for her roles in films like "Trading Places" and "The Devil’s Daughter," as well as her work in television series such as "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine." While her family celebrates her vibrant personality and love for nature, the specific cause of death has not been disclosed.
Contrasting these moments of grief, Hollywood is preparing for a landmark celebration of its history with the 100th anniversary of Marilyn Monroe's birth. Beginning June 1, 2026, a series of tributes will honor the screen icon, including a dedicated exhibit at the Academy Museum titled "Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon." The festivities include auctions of nearly 200 pieces of memorabilia and retrospectives on her pioneering work as a producer who challenged studio norms. These events, ranging from local Ghanaian memorials to global Hollywood centenaries, underscore the enduring impact of cinema stars on public life and the diverse ways their legacies are preserved.
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