Ghanaian music stars Amaarae and Sarkodie are set to make their acting debuts in the upcoming HBO and BBC drama First Day on Earth, created by Michaela Coel.
The highly anticipated series marks a major career shift for both artistes as they transition from music into television. They join an impressive cast featuring prominent Ghanaian actors such as Joselyn Dumas, Deborah Vanessa, Adjetey Anang, Akofa Edjeani, Roselyn Ngissah, and Akwasi Boadi.
Written by Michaela Coel, the drama follows a British-Ghanaian novelist named Henri, played by Coel herself, who attempts to escape challenges in her life but finds herself returning to Ghana—her ancestral home. There, she becomes immersed in a new environment that reshapes her outlook through evolving relationships, cultural experiences, and personal revelations.
As Henri navigates moments of joy and connection, she is also confronted with deeper emotional struggles, including hidden truths and complex family dynamics that force her to reassess her identity and heritage.
Amaarae, born Ama Serwah Genfi, will portray a character named Nana, marking her first appearance on screen as an actress. Sarkodie, whose real name is Michael Owusu Addo, also takes on a role in the production, further expanding his creative reach beyond music.
The series also features an international ensemble cast, including Thandiwe Newton, Maxine Peake, Danny Sapani, and Ncuti Gatwa, blending global talent with strong Ghanaian representation.
First Day on Earth is a collaboration between HBO and BBC, with Coel serving as writer, executive producer, and co-director. The project follows the success of her critically acclaimed series I May Destroy You, raising expectations for another powerful and thought-provoking production.
Co-produced with A24 and Various Artists Limited, the series brings together a strong creative team to deliver a story that bridges cultures and explores identity on a global stage.
Beyond the excitement surrounding their casting, the involvement of Amaarae and Sarkodie signals a growing trend of Ghanaian musicians expanding into film and television, further strengthening the country’s presence on the global entertainment stage.
Their participation is expected to draw a wider audience to the series, particularly among fans of African music and pop culture. It also highlights the increasing collaboration between African creatives and major international production houses.
As anticipation builds, many industry watchers believe First Day on Earth could serve as a breakthrough moment, opening doors for more Ghanaian talents to feature in high-profile global productions.
