Canadian-Ghanaian actress Jackie Appiah has secured one of the most coveted honors in African cinema, winning Best Actress in a Leading Role at the 2024 Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAAs).

The award recognizes her exceptional performance in the film Red Carpet. This victory, announced during the AMAA gala held in Lagos, Nigeria, on November 2, marks a new milestone in Appiah’s remarkable career and underscores her dedication to her craft over two decades.

Facing stiff competition from other talented nominees, Appiah’s role in Red Carpet stood out.

The film, directed by Frank Rajah Arase, is a bold production by Samis Media, led by celebrated filmmaker and costume designer Samira Yakubu. It features an all-star cast, including Kalsoume Sinare, Grace Omaboe, Selly Ghally, Roseline Ngissah, Adjetey Annang, Abeiku Santana, Beverly Afaglo, and Deyemi Okanlawon, among others.

Jackie Appiah’s journey with the AMAAs began in 2007, when she won her first award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Beyonce. From that early triumph, Appiah quickly rose to prominence, claiming her first Best Actress in a Leading Role award in 2010 for The Perfect Picture. In that memorable role, she portrayed a wife struggling with marital incompatibility, a performance praised for its depth and nuance. She has since received consistent nominations over the years—from Princess Tyra in 2008 to Red Carpet in 2024.

Beyond the AMAAs, Appiah’s talent has earned her numerous accolades, including Best Actress at the 2010 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, the Ghana Movie Awards, and Pan African Actress of the Year at the Nigerian Entertainment Awards in 2011.

For Red Carpet, this AMAA win is yet another feather in its cap, adding to the nomination it earned for Achievement in Soundtrack, thanks to Bernie Anti’s compelling score. This recognition at the AMAAs, particularly in its 20th anniversary year, celebrates Appiah’s impactful career and her contributions to African cinema, inspiring both fans and aspiring actors across the continent.