N※N

"Owuo ye ya": Entertainment journalist George Clifford Owusu reportedly dies

  //media-entertainment.news-articles.net/content/ .. alist-george-clifford-owusu-reportedly-dies.html
  Published in Media and Entertainment on Sunday, September 21st 2025 at 11:48 GMT by Yen.com.gh
          ^{🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source}

George Clifford Owusu, a Pioneer of Ghanaian Show‑biz Journalism, Passes Away

The Ghanaian media landscape has lost one of its most charismatic voices. George Clifford Owusu, a veteran entertainment journalist whose career spanned more than three decades, reportedly died on a quiet Sunday afternoon. Although the exact cause of his death was not disclosed, sources close to the family confirmed that the 61‑year‑old succumbed to a long‑standing illness. The news, which first broke on YEN.com.gh, has sparked an outpouring of grief from fellow journalists, artists, and fans across the country.

A Career Forged in the Fast Lane

Clifford Owusu’s journey began in the early 1990s, when he first broke into the industry as a junior reporter for the Daily Graphic. He quickly made a name for himself through his incisive coverage of Ghana’s burgeoning music scene and his uncanny ability to interview artists in a way that made even the most guarded performers feel at ease. By the early 2000s, Clifford had moved on to become the Entertainment Editor for The Mirror, a position he held for 12 years.

In addition to his print credentials, Clifford became a household name on Ghanaian television. He hosted the popular nightly show Showbiz Tonight on the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, where he interviewed actors, musicians, and directors while dissecting the latest gossip, award‑show headlines, and film reviews. Viewers appreciated his candidness and his trademark wit; he could ask a tough question and then follow it up with a joke that made even the most sensational news feel lighthearted.

A Mentor to a Generation

Colleagues describe Clifford as a “father figure” to many aspiring journalists. He was known for his door‑open policy; interns would often recount how he would spend hours in the newsroom, offering feedback on story structure or even suggesting angles that turned a routine piece into a compelling narrative. “He treated us like future leaders,” remembered Nana Yaw, a former intern who now works for a regional magazine. “If we could’t get a quote, he’d find a way to get it, but he’d always do it with integrity.”

His influence extended beyond journalism into the broader entertainment ecosystem. In 2015, Clifford founded a small production company, Owusu Media, which produced a series of short documentaries on Ghana’s film industry. The most celebrated project, Hidden Gems, showcased up‑and‑coming filmmakers and earned a nomination for Best Documentary at the Ghana Movie Awards.

A Voice for Change

Beyond entertainment reporting, Clifford was an outspoken advocate for media freedom and fair coverage. In 2018 he led a coalition of journalists in a petition to the Ghanaian Ministry of Information, urging for the protection of press workers’ rights and the elimination of censorship in the arts. “He believed that what we cover can shape culture, and we must do it responsibly,” said Kwesi Nkrumah, a fellow editor at The Ghanaian Times.

Clifford’s own personal life, though largely kept out of the limelight, has recently come to public attention. He was survived by his wife, Mary‑Ann, and two daughters, both of whom are studying communications abroad. Family friends noted that Clifford was deeply involved in his community, often organizing free media workshops for students in his hometown of Tamale.

Legacy and Funeral Arrangements

The Ghanaian media community has been quick to acknowledge the void that Clifford’s absence creates. The Ghanaian Press Association released a statement: “George Clifford Owusu was a pillar of our industry. His legacy will inspire generations to come.” A memorial service is scheduled for June 15, 2025, at the National Theatre in Accra. The ceremony will feature a tribute playlist of his favourite tracks, reflecting his lifelong love for music.

In a heartfelt post, a fellow journalist on Twitter wrote, “Clifford’s death is a loss not just for journalism, but for the heart of Ghanaian entertainment. He taught us that stories are powerful, and that telling them with honesty is our duty.”

What’s Next for the Ghanaian Entertainment Beat?

Clifford’s departure leaves a noticeable gap on Showbiz Tonight and in the newsroom of The Mirror. While both outlets are looking for capable successors, many see this as an opportunity for fresh voices to step into the spotlight. Several emerging journalists have already been promoted to senior roles, indicating a shift towards a more inclusive and modern editorial team.

Meanwhile, the Owusu Media production company has announced that it will continue producing documentaries, focusing on underrepresented narratives from Ghana’s Northern regions. “We owe a debt of gratitude to George for giving these stories a platform,” said the company’s director, who asked to remain anonymous.

George Clifford Owusu’s career was marked by a passion for storytelling, a commitment to professional integrity, and a relentless drive to bring the world of Ghanaian show‑biz into the public eye. As the industry mourns his loss, his legacy will undoubtedly continue to shape the next generation of journalists, reminding them that even in the most glittering world of entertainment, the truth remains the most valuable currency.