In a candid interview on Lawson FM with host Kwame Tanko, celebrated Ghanaian actor and producer Lilwin (Kwadwo Nkansah) opened up about the casting turmoil behind his latest project, “A Country Called Ghana.” Lilwin expressed his frustration over the unexpected withdrawal of Ghanaian actor Van Vicker, who was initially cast for a crucial role in the film.
“Let me be honest, Van Vicker’s withdrawal was a huge letdown,” Lilwin stated, revealing the emotional toll of the situation. The film’s production was on the brink, with Vicker’s role being central to the narrative. “We had everything lined up, and his role was pivotal. But at the last moment, he just didn’t come through. It left us scrambling to fill the void,” he added, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Faced with this last-minute challenge, Lilwin made a strategic pivot by casting Nigerian actor Ramsey Nouah, known for his significant presence in Nollywood. “It wasn’t part of the plan, but desperate times call for bold moves,” Lilwin remarked, explaining the decision to bring in an international star to salvage the project.
The decision to cast Nouah was not without its financial implications. Lilwin was transparent about the cost, saying, “Let me put it this way,” with a wry smile, “The amount I paid Ramsey could cover the fees of every top Ghanaian star, and I’d still have change left over. It was a serious investment, but it had to be done.”
Despite the high stakes and financial gamble, Lilwin praised Nouah’s contribution to the film. “Ramsey brought something extraordinary to the project,” he acknowledged. “His involvement elevated the production beyond what we initially envisioned, and we couldn’t have asked for a better replacement.”
This casting ordeal has not only showcased Lilwin’s resilience and adaptability but also underscored the collaborative spirit between Ghanaian and Nigerian cinema, bringing international flair to “A Country Called Ghana.”