IShowSpeed joins Obama-backed documentary on Ghana’s independence history

American streaming personality IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr., has joined the production team for The Eyes of Ghana, a documentary focusing on Ghana’s independence history. The documentary, directed by the Academy Award-winning filmmaker Ben Proudfoot, is produced by Breakwater Studios and Higher Ground Productions, the latter of which was founded by former U.S. President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle Obama.

The 90-minute film delves into the work of American cinematographer Chris Hesse, who captured rare archival footage during Ghana’s fight for independence in the 1950s and 1960s, working closely with Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah. Hesse’s collection includes over 1,000 films documenting the period, which remained hidden for decades after Nkrumah's overthrow in 1966.

The documentary follows Hesse's efforts to preserve the collection and impart his legacy to future filmmakers, including Ghanaian filmmaker Anita Afonu. IShowSpeed's involvement in the project stems from his visit to Ghana earlier in 2026, where he garnered public attention and expressed his affinity for the country and its people.

He is honored to help introduce Hesse's work to a broader international audience, emphasizing the importance of preserving Ghana's historical records. The Eyes of Ghana is set to premiere in select U.S. theaters on October 28, 2026, with potential future screenings in Ghana and the United Kingdom.