Ghanaian actress and film producer Kisa Gbekle has weighed in on the persistent claims that some film industry gatekeepers demand sexual favours from aspiring actresses in exchange for roles.
In an interview with Nana Romeo on ‘Atuu’, she explained that her entry into the movie scene followed a different path compared to what others often describe.
Kisa Gbekle said her career began through the Ghallywood school film system before she was later introduced to renowned producer Abdul Salam Mumuni.
“I always say that the connection I entered the industry with is different. I came from Ghallywood school film, and my boss handed me over to Abdul Salam Mumuni. Abdul Salam’s boys know that I’m his daughter, so they never tried anything funny with me,” she said.
She added that she spent time working closely with Abdul Salam Mumuni before eventually stepping out to produce her own debut film. In her early years, she also had experience working with Venus Films.
According to her, some young women who show up at production offices often arrive with intentions beyond auditions, hoping to secure influence or direct access to decision-makers.
“I was working at Venus film. When some girls come to Venus films, they go about asking who would make them a star. Sometimes, they would come to me, tip me, and ask me to connect them with the boss,” she stated.
Kisa Gbekle also noted that she does not fully place blame on producers and directors accused of exchanging roles for sexual relationships, arguing that in some cases, certain actresses contribute to those situations themselves.
“I don’t blame the producers and directors who sleep with girls for roles. The girls throw themselves at them. If you’re there for an audition, audition and go. Don’t come for the audition and be telling the director that you’re there so he’s supposed to notice you,” she noted.
She further suggested that when individuals present themselves in that manner, some industry players may end up taking advantage of it.
“When you throw yourselves at them, they would also accept and sleep with you,” she added.
