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Tag: Nollywood Actor

  • Jumoke Odetola Defends Hilda Baci Amid Jollof Rice Criticism

    Jumoke Odetola Defends Hilda Baci Amid Jollof Rice Criticism

    Actress Jumoke Odetola has defended celebrity chef Hilda Baci after her record-breaking Jollof Rice festival drew criticism from some who claimed the food “wasn’t sweet.”

    In an Instagram post, Odetola described the backlash as “heartbreaking when negativity overshadows greatness,” noting that achieving such a feat required significant courage, preparation, and resilience on multiple levels — mental, emotional, psychological, and financial.

    She questioned why some people are unsettled by others’ success, particularly that of women, urging critics to reflect on their reactions rather than attempt to diminish another person’s achievements.

    “It takes real courage to attempt something extraordinary,” Odetola wrote. “Bringing that dream into reality takes even more than courage — it demands preparedness mentally, psychologically, emotionally, and financially.”

    Expressing her frustration with the criticisms circulating online, the actress encouraged people to look inward. “Place your right hand on your chest where your heart beats and ask yourself: why am I triggered by the success of a woman trying to make a mark in her field? Sit with that question. Your answer might just be the doorway to your healing.”

    She concluded her message with a prayer, asking for peace, happiness, and healing for those whose past pains may have “transcended into bitterness, toxicity, and hatred.”

  • Chiwetalu Agu Debunks Death Rumours, Says He Is Alive

    Chiwetalu Agu Debunks Death Rumours, Says He Is Alive

    Veteran Nollywood actor Chiwetalu Agu has dismissed rumours of his death, urging fans and family to ignore the false reports circulating online.

    In a video shared on Instagram on Friday, Agu reassured his followers of his well-being. “Fans and family, please disregard any rumors about my death, and kindly report the page of the blogger who started spreading them. I am very much alive by God’s grace,” he wrote in the caption.

    Identifying himself in the clip, Agu declared: “Chief Chiwetalu Agu, okenmiri n’ezoru Oha 1 of Etiti Amokwe, Enugu State, is not going to die anytime soon. Instead I will be the one to bury my enemies. Na who dig pit go fall inside. Na who dig grave go fall inside.”

    He added that he looks forward to carrying his grandchildren in good health when his children are ready.

    Reacting to the false reports, Agu noted that while he would have considered suing larger platforms for defamation and economic damage, he chose not to take legal action against the blogger who shared the claims because the individual is “still struggling with likes.”

    “What baffles me is that in this 21st century, 2025, a lot of people are still gullible to believe such things without confirming whether it is true or not,” the actor said.

    The clarification comes after a blogger falsely claimed that the Nollywood star had died, sparking confusion among fans.

  •  Kanayo O. Kanayo Decries ‘Face Selling’ Trend in Nollywood

     Kanayo O. Kanayo Decries ‘Face Selling’ Trend in Nollywood

    Veteran Nollywood actor Kanayo O. Kanayo has criticised what he described as an increasing focus on “selling faces” over acting ability in the Nigerian film industry, particularly on YouTube productions.

    In a video posted to Instagram on Monday, the actor—whose real name is Anayo Modestus Onyekwere—said he would dedicate his YouTube platform to promoting lesser-known but talented performers rather than prioritising popular faces.

    “Movie making is not about having a fine face, it’s about being a good actor, a good performer,” he said. “So, with or without a fine face, that’s what I’ve decided to do. If you don’t like it, that’s quite unfortunate.”

    Kanayo, renowned for his iconic role in the 1992 classic Living in Bondage, recalled similar practices in Nollywood’s early years, when sponsors sidelined skilled actors deemed commercially unattractive. He warned that the same mindset is resurfacing on digital platforms.

    “The acclaimed YouTube faces are beginning to bring up the same thing, killing talents in the industry,” he said, adding that overreliance on a handful of popular actors stifles creativity and discourages new talent.

    He noted that some trending performers monopolise the streaming space, making it difficult to sustain diverse content. “Some of these guys will tell you they are not free from September 2025 till August 2026. How then do we sustain the content you watch? How do we encourage new actors to come into the business?” he asked.

    Rejecting the idea of being cast simply for his popularity, Kanayo emphasised: “Don’t call me because I’m a selling face. Call me because I can deliver.”

    The veteran reaffirmed his commitment to inclusivity and urged producers and audiences to embrace new talent. “If you’re a new face, come on, let’s do magic on Kanayo O. Kanayo TV on YouTube. Let’s create stories with people who can deliver, who can act.”

    Concluding his message, he expressed optimism despite his frustration: “I don’t know why when things come to Nigeria, there’s always a somersault, and this somersault is happening now on YouTube. But I want to employ my life’s philosophy to say: this too shall pass.”

  • Bolanle Ninolowo: I’m Not Just an Actor, I’m a Brand

    Bolanle Ninolowo: I’m Not Just an Actor, I’m a Brand

    Popular Nollywood actor Bolanle Ninolowo has described himself as more than just a film star, calling attention to his carefully curated identity as a business-minded entertainer and strategic brand.

    In an interview with The Nation, the actor—widely known by his nickname “Makanaki”—said his rise in Nollywood was not accidental but the result of grace, deliberate effort, and positioning.

    “Yes, first is grace, and then two is positioning,” Ninolowo stated. “My brand is very important to me. I’m not just an actor, I’m a business actor.”

    With a career spanning over a decade, Ninolowo has established a strong presence in the Nigerian film industry. He noted that while acting talent is important, what sets him apart is his understanding of branding and identity beyond the screen.

    “Maybe you can tell me how many actors in the last decade the industry has been able to brand in a way that people call them by a name outside of their acting name,” he said. “So, when you say Maka, see how everybody reacts? That is the brand.”

    Responding to questions about his recent low profile in films, the actor dismissed the idea that constant appearances are necessary to stay relevant.

    “How many more films do I have to act in for you to know who I am?” he asked, pointing out that fame is temporary, but a solid brand has lasting value.

    “Film comes out and it goes. So build a brand. I tell people to pursue building a brand. Do something that gives you a name you can leverage. Think about your positioning. It’s very, very key. It’s not just acting,” he concluded.

    Ninolowo’s comments underline his belief in long-term strategy over short-term fame, offering insight into how modern entertainers can remain relevant in a rapidly changing industry.

  • Iyabo Ojo Urges Mothers to Break Generational Cycles

    Iyabo Ojo Urges Mothers to Break Generational Cycles

    Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has called on mothers to break free from negative generational patterns and create a more positive and supportive environment for their children.

    She made the statement while speaking at her daughter Priscilla’s baby shower, which was held over the weekend in Canada. The actress emphasized the importance of intentional parenting and the power of speaking positively over one’s children.

    Ojo encouraged women to reject the belief that past struggles or harmful family traditions must carry over into the next generation. Instead, she urged mothers to embrace faith, healing, and positive affirmations to break destructive cycles.

    “Sometimes you need to sacrifice so much for your children,” she said. “Whatever comes out of your decision—good or bad—is not a burden your children should carry.”

    She stressed that many parents unintentionally pass down emotional baggage to their children, which she believes can limit their potential and blessings.

    “When mothers carry the pain and struggle and extend it to their children, they deprive them of certain things,” Ojo said. “There is something called ancestral curses; you cannot break it if you are still leading it.”

    According to her, breaking such cycles requires a conscious effort to stop negative patterns and not pass them on.

    The actress, a mother of two, used the moment to reflect on her own parenting journey and urged fellow mothers to protect their children’s emotional and spiritual well-being.

    Ojo’s message resonated with many online, sparking discussions on generational trauma, healing, and motherhood within African families.

    WATCH VIDEO HERE

  • Efa Iwara Expresses Discontent With Career Progress

    Efa Iwara Expresses Discontent With Career Progress

    Nigerian actor and musician Efa Iwara has voiced his dissatisfaction with the current state of his career, saying he believes he has yet to fully realise his potential.

    In a recent interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo, Iwara admitted he is not content with where he stands professionally. “No, I am not happy with where my career is,” he said. “I feel like I can do so much more. There’s so much potential that is untapped.”

    The actor added that while he is willing to work harder, he is conscious of maintaining his health. “I can work twice as hard, as long as I don’t break down. I’m just never satisfied,” he explained.

    Iwara, known for his roles in The Men’s Club and This Lady Called Life, began his career in music before transitioning to acting. Despite critical acclaim for his work, he believes he has not yet reached the professional heights he aspires to.

    Reflecting on his early life, Iwara also shared that he struggled with stammering as a child. “I was born a stammerer,” he said. “But I had to outgrow it. My brother had to coach me out of it.”

    Throughout the interview, Iwara emphasised his commitment to personal growth and professional excellence. He also hinted at a continued drive to challenge himself creatively.

    In previous interviews, the multi-talented performer has encouraged aspiring actors to attend auditions regularly and stay prepared for opportunities.

    While his journey has seen notable achievements across film and music, Iwara said he remains focused on breaking new ground in his career.

    His candid reflections offer insight into the pressures and aspirations that shape the lives of creative professionals in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

  • Iyabo Ojo Prays for Daughter Priscilla’s Marital Success with Juma Jux

    Iyabo Ojo Prays for Daughter Priscilla’s Marital Success with Juma Jux

    Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has offered heartfelt prayers for her daughter, Priscilla, declaring that her marriage to Tanzanian singer Juma Jux will stand the test of time.

    In a viral video recorded during a baby shower event in Toronto, Canada, the emotional mother is seen expressing her hopes for her daughter’s union, describing it as a lifelong journey of love, companionship, and family.

    “Priscilla, your marriage will work. You will grow old with your husband. He will be beside you from youth to old age, and you will be with your children,” Iyabo declared.

    The actress attributed her daughter’s positive marital outlook to choosing the right partner, referring to Juma Jux as “the bone of your bones, the flesh of your flesh.”

    Reflecting on her own marital challenges, Iyabo noted that while her marriage did not succeed, she believes her experience and sacrifices would serve as a foundation for her daughter’s happiness.

    “If mine didn’t work, yours will work, for I have paid that sacrifice for yours to work,” she added.

    Her declaration follows months of online speculation and skepticism surrounding Priscilla and Juma Jux’s relationship after their wedding made headlines.

  • Shaffy Bello Says She’s No Longer Interested in Dating Younger Men

    Veteran Nollywood actress Shaffy Bello has revealed she is no longer interested in dating younger men, citing a change in her personal values and long-term relationship goals.

    In a recent interview with media personality Ifedayo Agoro, Bello shared that although she continues to receive attention from admirers of various ages, her priorities have evolved.

    “I have dated a younger man and don’t want to do it again. What I want now is different,” she said, adding that while the relationship served its purpose at the time, that chapter of her life is closed. “It was for a season, and the season is over.”

    Bello clarified that she holds no negative views toward relationships with younger partners but emphasized that her current focus is on more meaningful, lasting connections.

    “There is no need for me to date a younger man anymore. When I did, I was having fun. Now, my desires have changed,” she noted.

    The actress also expressed openness to marriage, though she said her perspective on it differs from conventional norms.

    “I don’t mind marriage. But I have a different opinion when it comes to marriage. I think a lot of people are rigid about it,” Bello said.

    Commenting on unsolicited messages she receives online, she added, “Men slide into my DM—some over 50, some younger. It’s flattering, but some of them are badly behaved. Some will message me with ‘Hi, dear,’ and I just think, really?”

    Bello has previously spoken out about personal boundaries and maintaining professional standards in both her personal and public life.

    Her comments reflect a broader trend among public figures prioritizing self-awareness and emotional maturity in relationships.

  • Yemi Solade Claims Seniority Over Pete Edochie in Nollywood

    Yemi Solade Claims Seniority Over Pete Edochie in Nollywood

    Veteran Nigerian actor Yemi Solade has stirred controversy online with his recent assertion that he is senior to Pete Edochie in the movie industry, despite being younger in age.

    In a video shared on social media, Solade reflected on his journey in acting and addressed ongoing debates about the origins of Nollywood. He refuted widespread claims that the English-speaking section of the industry pioneered Nollywood, arguing that the Yoruba film sector had long been active but failed to document its works early on.

    “I’m a senior to Pete Edochie, though he is older than me, but I started acting before him,” Solade said. “I started acting in 1977 when I was 17 as Nigeria’s youngest actor. I have done 48 years in acting and I’m still standing.”

    He also credited Ade Ajiboye, popularly known as “Big Abass,” as the first Nigerian to produce a home video, adding that the Yoruba movie industry was actively producing films before the term “Nollywood” became widely recognized.

    “They claim to have started Nollywood because they romance the media, while the Yoruba section was just acting without documentation,” Solade noted.

    His remarks have sparked mixed reactions across social media, with some supporting his claims of early involvement in acting, while others questioned the relevance of comparing timelines or contributions in such a manner.

    WATCH VIDEO HERE 

  • Lilian Afegbai Reflects on Role in ‘To Kill a Monkey’

    Lilian Afegbai Reflects on Role in ‘To Kill a Monkey’

    Lilian Afegbai ’

    Nollywood actress Lilian Afegbai has shared insights into her emotional journey portraying the character Idia in the newly released Netflix film To Kill a Monkey, directed by Kemi Adetiba.

    In a post on Instagram, Afegbai responded to widespread praise from fans and colleagues, describing the experience as deeply personal and transformative. She thanked viewers for what she called a “whirlwind of love and support.”

    “Playing Idia was more than just a role,” she wrote. “It was a journey of becoming one with a character whose strength, vulnerability, and spirit I poured my soul into.”

    Afegbai credited director Kemi Adetiba for trusting her with the complex role, noting that the process pushed her artistic boundaries and left a lasting emotional impact.

    “I gave everything to bring her to life,” she added. “Seeing your kind words, messages, and encouragement means the world to me and makes it all worth it.”

    The actress also expressed appreciation to the cast, crew, and supporters of the film, acknowledging their collaborative efforts in creating a memorable production.

    Afegbai, known for her range and dedication, said the role of Idia challenged her in ways she hadn’t expected, and she was grateful for the opportunity to grow as an actor.

    “To everyone who has watched To Kill a Monkey and shared their overwhelming love for my portrayal of Idia, thank you from the depths of my heart,” she wrote.

    The film, which debuted on Netflix to strong reviews, marks another milestone in Afegbai’s growing career and highlights Adetiba’s continued influence in Nigerian cinema.

    As of press time, both To Kill a Monkey and Afegbai’s performance continue to generate buzz across social media and streaming platforms.