TGMA27: Celebrities criticised for putting no effort into red carpet looks

For twenty-seven years, the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMAs) has not only celebrated music but also sparked heated debates online.

Each edition often sees social media split: one camp laments poor fashion on the red carpet, weak stage design, awkward transitions, and clumsy interviews, while the other accuses critics of being unfairly negative and constantly comparing Ghana’s showbiz scene to Nigeria’s.

The 2026 ceremony was no different. Despite the theme being ‘A touch of glitter’, many celebrities were slammed for what fans described as uninspiring and really poor red carpet looks.

Comparisons with Nigeria’s African Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), which coincidentally took place the same weekend, intensified the criticism, with many arguing that Nigerian stars put far more effort into their appearances.

Here are a few Ghanaian celebrities whose red carpet appearances at the 2026 Telecel Ghana Music Awards came under heavy scrutiny.

King Promise

The “Terminator” hitmaker stepped onto the red carpet in an all-black outfit featuring a hooded top/scarf combo, almost resembling a monk or street ninja aesthetic.

He paired it with heavy gold chains, sunglasses, black trousers and chunky black Balenciaga boots.

Many on social media argued that the outfit looked more suited for a nightclub outing than an elegant red carpet event.

@forthecultureee @iamkingpromise arrives at the TGMA Red carpet 🔥❤️❤️💪🏾 #kingpromise #fashion #tgma26 #redcarpet ♬ See What We've Done - King Promise & Mr Eazi

Dr Likee

Another celebrity many believed should not have appeared on the red carpet in that look was comedian Dr Likee, also known as Akabenezer.

He wore a full cream/off-white matching set consisting of a long-sleeved button-up shirt made from a slightly shiny fabric, likely satin, with gold-tone buttons and a small gold emblem on the chest pocket area.

The outfit was paired with shorts that stopped above the knee and black slippers, a combination many social media users felt did not fit the elegance expected at an event like the TGMAs.

@ghbrain_ UPDATES | Dr Likee makes a surprise appearance on the #27thTGMA ♬ original sound - GHBRAIN

Hajia4Real

The “Fine Girl” hitmaker, Hajia4Real, also known as Mona Faiz Montrage, wore a figure-hugging black catsuit-style outfit on the TGMA red carpet and even presented an award in the same look.

The outfit featured a tight long-sleeved black bodysuit that accentuated her curves, particularly her hips and bust, with a deep plunging neckline.

She accessorised with a large fluffy grey fur-like collar wrapped around her shoulders and waist, alongside a shiny silver chain belt with a small black handbag attached.

“She dress like she dey go Enzo,” one social media user commented, suggesting the outfit looked more suitable for an all-black nightclub event than a prestigious award ceremony.

@abrantipanino Hajia 4 Real looking sassy on the red carpet. Damn🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 #tgma #fashion #redcarpet #fyp ♬ original sound - Abrantipa Nino

Ras Kuuku

The “Puom” hitmaker also drew criticism for what many described as an overly casual appearance on the red carpet.

Ras Kuuku wore a plain white short-sleeved t-shirt paired with dark jeans or fitted trousers, bright white Air Force sneakers and a colourful headwrap with visible yellow and orange tones, likely covering his dreadlocks.

Many described the overall look as simple streetwear rather than a proper red carpet outfit.

@everything.ghana #raskuku at #tgma #fyp #ghanatiktok🇬🇭 #musicawards ♬ original sound - Everything Ghana 🇬🇭

However, while these four celebrities faced criticism for what many considered uninspiring fashion choices, several others were praised for understanding the assignment and delivering standout looks on the night.

Meanwhile, celebrities such as Deborah Vanessa, KiDi, Fella Makafui, Gyakie, Wendy Shay, Diana Hamilton, Too Sweet Annan and Van Vicker were among those widely praised for their impressive appearances on the red carpet.

Gospel queen Diana Hamilton takes home Best Gospel Artiste at the 27th TGMAs



AK/EB