Hanks Anuku, a renowned Nigerian-Ghanaian veteran actor, has left an indelible mark in the Nollywood film industry. Born on August 27, 1960, in Ibadan, Oyo State, he later moved to Delta State, Nigeria, belonging to the Igbo tribe from Ika. Anuku’s career took off in 1993, and he became famous for his portrayal of villains in various Nollywood films. This blog post delves into the life, career, and personal journey of this remarkable actor.
Hanks Anuku attended Loyola College in Ibadan for his secondary education, where he obtained his Senior Secondary School certificate. Later, he pursued higher education at Auchi Polytechnic, graduating in 1981.
After a brief stint as an actor in the United States, Anuku made his film debut in 1994, starring in Fidelis Duker’s movie, “Skeleton.” His breakthrough came with the 1994 hit film, “The Senator,” which elevated his status in the industry. Known for his remarkable American accent, he earned the moniker “American Boy” as he continued to appear in several Nollywood films, often playing the role of a villain.
Throughout his career, Hanks Anuku has been part of numerous notable Nollywood films, including “Broad Daylight” (2001), “Bitter Honey” (2005), “The Captor” (2006), “Men on Hard Way” (2007), “Fools on the Run” (2007), “Desperate Ambition” (2006), “My Love,” “Wanted Alive,” and “Rambo.”
Hanks Anuku’s personal life has seen both highs and lows. He faced a difficult period in his marriage when he revealed that he had previously infected his wife with HIV. Despite this, the couple is blessed with three children. In 2017, Anuku changed his name to Nana Kwame Fifi Kakra and became a Ghanaian citizen, choosing to live the rest of his life in Ghana.
Conclusion
Hanks Anuku’s journey from Nigeria to Ghana and his impactful career in Nollywood exemplify his dedication to the craft of acting. His portrayal of memorable villains and a unique American accent has earned him a special place in the hearts of movie enthusiasts. As he continues to make Ghana his home, his contributions to the film industry remain cherished and admired. You can keep up with his journey and updates on Instagram at @ha1962anukuha.
FAQs
Who is Hanks Anuku, and what is his background?
Hanks Anuku, born on May 12, 1960, in Ibadan, Nigeria, is a renowned Nigerian actor known for his roles as a villain in numerous Nollywood films. He hails from Ika in Delta State and completed his education at Loyola College, Ibadan, before earning a Higher National Diploma in Mass Communication from Auchi Polytechnic in 1981. Anuku began his acting career in the 1990s, gaining prominence with his portrayal of antagonistic characters in various movies
What is Hanks Anuku’s net worth?
As of 2025, Hanks Anuku’s net worth is estimated to be between $800,000 and $1 million. This estimation reflects his long-standing career in the Nigerian film industry, where he has been a prominent figure since the 1990s
Has Hanks Anuku experienced any challenges in his career?
Yes, Hanks Anuku has faced significant challenges in his career. In recent years, he has publicly stated that he has been jobless for an extended period, which has affected his financial stability. Additionally, a viral video depicting him in a distressed state led to public concern about his well-being. Anuku later clarified that the video was from a movie set and not an indication of his mental health.
What is Hanks Anuku’s current location and citizenship status?
In 2017, Hanks Anuku was naturalized as a Ghanaian citizen and relocated to Accra, Ghana, with his family. He adopted the name Nana Kwame Fifi Kakra Anuku and has since renounced his Nigerian citizenship, becoming a certified citizen of Ghana.
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