He is known for starring as the second lead role with the late Hollywood actor, Klaus Kinski in Werner Herzog's sensational film Cobra Verde (1987) which he also co-produced.
This academic background provided him with a solid foundation in film theory and practice, shaping his distinctive approach to filmmaking[4][5] King Ampaw was born on 25 July 1940 in Kukurantumi in the Eastern Region of Ghana.
In 1966 he also enrolled at the Academy of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna, Austria and the Hochschule für Fernsehen und Film München, Germany (HFF Munich) from 1967 to 1972 where he studied with Werner Herzog and Wim Wenders.
Ampaw is particularly renowned for his ability to capture the nuances of Ghanaian life, presenting them in a way that resonates with both local and international audiences.
His films are celebrated for their humor, social commentary, and the use of non-professional actors, which adds an authentic touch to his narratives[11][12] King Ampaw's contributions to African cinema are exemplified by his notable works, including No Time to Die and Kukurantumi: The Road to Accra.
Kukurantumi: The Road to Accra, in particular, is considered a landmark in African filmmaking, showcasing the everyday struggles and resilience of the Ghanaian people.
Ampaw has also played a key role in the establishment of film institutions in Ghana, which have provided training and resources for emerging filmmakers.