Ghanaian actress Lydia Forson has reignited debate over the direction of modern award ceremonies, raising concern that many events may be drifting away from honouring artistic achievement and leaning more heavily into fashion spectacle.
In a reflective post, she acknowledged her appreciation for style and red carpet culture but argued that the core purpose of such events should remain rooted in creative excellence.
“Speaking purely as an artist, I think we need to have an honest conversation about whether some of these events are award shows or fashion events,” she stated.
Forson explained that her motivation for attending award ceremonies is primarily tied to the work being celebrated. “When I attend an awards show, I’m there first because of the work. Because of film. Because of music. Because of the art,” she wrote, adding that the red carpet experience should enhance the main ceremony rather than dominate attention.
She went further to express unease about what she sees as a growing shift in public focus, where appearances increasingly overshadow achievements. “Lately, it feels like more conversation happens around outfits than the actual winners, performances, projects, or progress within the industry itself,” she noted.
According to her, this trend is also placing additional pressure on creatives who now feel compelled to compete not only in their craft but also in fashion visibility. “From an artist’s perspective, it becomes exhausting… now there’s the added burden of needing to deliver a viral fashion moment too,” she said.
While reaffirming her personal love for fashion, Forson suggested that if the industry wants dedicated style-focused showcases, those platforms should be created separately and intentionally. “If we want fashion-centered events, then let’s create them intentionally… But award shows should still remember to center the artists and the work because without the films, the music, the performances, there is no carpet to begin with.”
See her post below.
