IShowSpeed Joins Obamas for Historic Ghanaian Film

YouTube sensation IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr., has taken on a producer role for the documentary "The Eyes of Ghana." This project is a collaboration with former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama, executive produced through their company, Higher Ground Productions. The film centers on Ghanaian cameraman Christian Tsui Hesse, also known as Chris Hesse, who meticulously recorded significant events during the tenure of Ghana's first president, Kwame Nkrumah.

IShowSpeed announced his involvement on October 15, 2026, expressing that his recent visit to Ghana in 2026 made the country feel like home. This personal connection motivated him to contribute to the documentary. He shared his excitement about becoming a producer, calling it an "educational film" that connects Hesse's historical videography to modern streaming concepts.

The documentary, directed by Ben Proudfoot, will be available for a special one-night screening in participating cinemas across the United States and Canada on October 28, 2026. The film delves into Ghana's history through Hesse's preserved film reels, capturing the nation's independence era and other pivotal moments. Hesse, now in his 90s, is dedicated to safeguarding this historical footage.