Nollywood’s Leading Men Cover ThisDay Style

10 of Nollywood’s leading men; Stan Nze, Lateef Adedeji, Bucci Franklin, Zubby Michael, Kunle Remi, Efa Iwara, Jide Kene A, Timini Egbuson, Daniel Etim Effiong, and Uzee. A. Usman, whose acting delivery has continued to hold viewers spellbound, open up about their lives in an interview with Azuka Ogunjiuba of Thisday Style. 

Read excerpts from their interview:

Stan Nze

What impact did your time at the Stella Damasus Arts Foundation have in your acting career? Would you say it was a great decision to enrol? 

Enrolling for Stella Damasus Art Foundation was one of the best decisions I made starting up my career. At the time, I didn’t know my left from my right. I knew I wanted to act, and I was trying everything- I tried auditions and joined a theatre group back in school. You cannot overemphasize the need for training, and so when the opportunity for that came, I auditioned for it. At the time, Stella Damasus was looking for talented people that she could harness, and I happened to be one of the lucky ones. While at her program, I auditioned for Tinsel, and I got on the show. I had been auditioning before then, but I never got on the show. I got on the show whilst I was training with Stella Damasus. 

The foundation taught and opened me up to so much about the craft. Talent is never enough. Yes, I was talented, but I needed the right coaching and guidance, which the platform gave me. I usually go back to the notes I made during my training; it still helps me in my character preparations today, it helps me in all the prominent roles, and it has helped me throughout my career. It was definitely a great decision, and I do not regret it at all.

Your parents are busy people with business and fashion; how would you describe their support in the course of your acting career? 

For parental support towards my acting career, I would say it was 50/50. I’m not going to say they were in full support or not because acting at that time wasn’t something you wanted to do as a full-time career. I didn’t even think it was what I wanted to do full time.

It initially started up as something I wanted to do for fun, but my mum decided to take it on fully as my Dad was not very much in the picture at the time. My mum has guided me through the path of growth in this sector. She also thought education was essential and gave me the best of it. While I was in school, I tried to lay my hands on as many auditions as possible, but I didn’t really do anything until I was out of school. My mum would always support me with transport fares to auditions. That was the little she could do. Eventually, when my Dad knew I was acting, it didn’t make much sense to him. But I think the goal of every parent is to see their children succeed in whatever sphere or field they find themselves in. 

If you are a doctor, succeed. If you are an engineer, succeed. If you are a footballer, succeed. Success is their greatest passion. So, once I did my first job and did the second, they saw a future and became pretty supportive. Right now, they are my biggest fans, so to speak. 

You recently got hitched. 

l got married to the most amazing woman in the world two weeks ago and I must say it’s one of the best feelings ever. I feel so fulfilled. I’m living my best life yet to be honest. We dated close to four years. We were friends first before dating. Yes, we had our ups and downs, broke up at some point, and got back. You know when it comes to marriage; you have to make the right decision. I don’t know who the future holds but I know the one who holds the future, JESUS. This was my confidence to forge ahead. And after 10 years and beyond, I’m sure that this testimony would still be the same.

Daniel Etim-Effiong

You studied  Chemical Engineering, what made you switch to acting? 

My passion for storytelling influenced my career choice. I’ve always told stories and as I grew older I witnessed the transformational power of stories in arts and entertainment. I realized late that this was what I really wanted out of life and somehow I found the courage to pursue it. 

 How do you handle disagreements between yourself and Directors?

When I’m familiar with a Director, I’ll talk it through with him/her before or after a scene and iron it out. When it’s someone I don’t really have a relationship with, I just mind my business. I try to focus on giving the Director what (s)he wants and leave my feelings out of it. 

Describe your most challenging role to date?

I play a character in an upcoming film by Mrs. Bolanle Austin Peters, called Collision. The character was manhandled badly for several days, shoved into the Lagos lagoon, and thrown out of a moving van. We shot through several nights and had several takes on very high emotional levels. It took a toll on my physical and mental health but it was all worth it. Watch out for it, it’s coming out soon. 

What is the hardest decision you have had to make in life?

Quitting my job in Oil & Gas to go into the arts and entertainment industry full time. 

How do you combine and joggle your role as a husband- and an actor?

I try my best really. The secret for me is to decide the things that are most important to you in life and focus on them. What you focus on will grow. When I’m not working, I spend valuable time with my family and make sure there are no distractions. 

 You are married to a lovely lady. How well has she helped you in the course of your career as an actor? 

My wife is everything to me, she has been such a huge inspiration in my career. She’s my biggest fan and supports me in everything I do. 

What is your affiliation with South Africa- you seem to have done many projects over there?

I studied filmmaking in South Africa and worked there briefly, so I have built a considerable network of business partners and close friends there. Cape Town is also one of my favourite cities in the world, I had my honeymoon there and still have fond memories of the city.  

Jide Kene

One of Africa’s media powerhouse, ‘Film One’ found you credible and talented enough to top its list of talents to watch out for in the next decade, what does that mean to you?

Means a lot to me. Means a lot also to everyone out there who can’t really do much but dream. The kind of dream that makes you afraid to tell others about it; is the kind of dream. It gives me renewed faith that I’m definitely made for big things and it will only take time and diligence. It renews hope like the saying “A man’s talent maketh way for him”. Special shout out to my people at Film One. You guys rock. 

You seize every opportunity to proudly show your Igbo heritage, why is that so?

IGBO is my heritage. It’s my motherland, mother tongue, my essence. I look like them, talk like them, think like them. I can’t even rinse off the Igbotic blood in me even if I tried. Their history appeals especially to me. When I praise God in the language; I feel charged, same as when I praise my neighbour or friend in Igbo. So just hapu’m nnor etu’a! 

Apart from the characters, you portray in movies, tell us a little about yourself; who you really are off the screen?

I am very shy. I am friendly to just about any and everybody. I do not like drama. I like to relax, no rush. I am also a perfectionist and I’m very highly competitive. I believe in family, love, values, and loyalty. I don’t do much partying or socializing. I play a lot of video games and I love to write or create. I no sabi form; I rather not make an appearance. I believe in equal opportunities for everyone. I like to be respected and listened That’s about it when it comes to my real personality.

What impact are you aiming to make in Nollywood that will better position the industry for global relevance?

This one is simple. I hope to help Nollywood get to a place where we can show our movies to the entire world and they don’t think it’s curated just for Africans. To be a part of the Nollywood club that goes toe to toe with the rest of the world just like Afro-beats is doing now. 

Uzee. A. Usman

You have been actively involved in acting and movie-making since 2004. Has it been a fulfilling experience for you?

YES !!! But at the early stage; it was not easy but dedication and focus took me to where I am today. At least, if you talk about the top northern actors now, my name must be mentioned so we thank Almighty.

Can you briefly explain your transition from being a makeup artist to becoming an actor/producer?

Being a makeup artist was just the situation at that moment. My main goal was to act and get people to believe in you even though you are from the North. I needed to get to the front of the camera after working behind it for a while as a makeup artiste. 

With a considerable level of success in your career, you are still single, any plans of getting married any time soon?

Yes but not that soon because I still want to achieve more career-wise before settling down.

Describe your kind of woman, and also what endears you?

l like darker women with a bit of flesh. Her character must be as attractive inside as she is outside. She must have the patience and trust required to enable be the best of myself.

You won the Best Makeup Artiste at the African Movie Academy Award for the movie London Boy in 2004. What impact did this have on your career?

That was the beginning of my success as an artist in Nollywood. Everyone that mattered in Nollywood started taking me seriously.

What is the place of the North in the growth of Nollywood, and how would you describe Kannywood’s development thus far?

Kannywood is a baby industry and is one of the fastest-growing parts of Nollywood but there is room for improvement. I’m using this platform to tell our northern people to invest in the movies so as to grow it substantially.

The Taurarin Zamani is one of the shows you are known for across Northern Nigeria. What does it seek to promote and redress?

The Taurarin Zamani show promotes the cultural value and the glamourous side of the North. We make The Who-is-who in northern elite relax in the show and be themselves. This is what makes it unique and classy.

Kunle Remi

Growing up, who influenced you the most in Nollywood?

Ramsey Noah.

Your versatility is remarkable. People envy you for that. How have you been able to juggle between being an actor, influencer, content creator among other things?

I become that which I need to be, at the time I  need to be. I just find a balance. 

In 2010 you participated in the Gulder Ultimate Search, and in the midst of 17,000 people you emerged the winner, what impact has that had in your life to date?

The feeling is incomparable. Since then to date, I don’t think anything is impossible. I am bolder and more confident.

Man against Rape and Violence (MAGV) is one of your charitable projects; kicks against rape, what inspired it? What also inspired your partnership with ‘ideas’ and ‘smiles’ supported by ‘You Matter to Lagos’? 

MARV was inspired by my love for children and teaching. It’s no lie that we need to educate the boy and girl child. The world is moving fast and kids are growing with that pace. They say it’s easier to correct a child than repair an adult. My strength is in visual entertainment, just as the name “MARV” (which is Man Against Rape and Violence). The generations to come need to be prepared to make better choices in their lives. 

With such good looks, how do you handle interest from your female fans? And who is your kind of woman?

I respect them and don’t take their love for granted. Knowing that most people are in love with the idea of who they think you are by characters that I play makes me extra conscious. God has continually helped me. It’s love always.

Your fans are curious to know when you will make the big announcement; when the wedding bell is ringing for you. Will that be happening anytime soon? 

Curiosity kills the cat! Times and seasons to everything on earth. 

Given an opportunity to choose between being a TV host and an actor, which would you pick and why?

There is no reason to choose. As an actor I ‘become’. 

Efa Ewara

You studied Geography at the University of Ibadan, how then are you able to act so well, is it an inborn talent?

I will have to say a bit of both. My dad always had us watch movies for pleasure and for research. We would write essays about movies growing up. My brother and I have always played around with acting and directing since we were kids. But that doesn’t prepare you for acting as a career. I had to learn on the job and do my research. Every day I learn something new and plan to continue trying to improve on a constant basis. 

Since 2017 when your path detoured into acting, you have worked with a lot of directors and actors, how do you reconcile your views and ideas with theirs without conflict?

I think it just boils down to being respectful and knowing that nobody knows everything. Like I said, I’m willing to learn on the job, and thankfully most Directors and my colleagues are constantly being impactful in my career.

Which is your most challenging role till date and why?

This is a tough one because different roles come with different challenges. From being in a wheelchair for Unbroken to learning about drifting for Seven. But I think Ajoche, my latest role, will have to take the crown. Having to shave my facial hair completely and lose weight for months and then put on weight and grow a full beard over a period of about eight months can be a lot. Not to talk about walking for a limp for that period of time and the character evolution from a timid prince to a tyrant king. Let’s not talk about the environmental conditions. Maybe James Omokwe ( the Executive Producer) is out for my life! (Laughter)

You come from a very educated background; your father is a Professor of Linguistics and your mother is a Librarian. Did they support your decision to go into the entertainment industry?

Like many fathers, mine was very skeptical about the field I chose. But, if I was in his shoes, I’ll probably feel the same way. But, I’ve realised over time that what’s important to him is me succeeding in life and excelling in any field I choose. My mother, on the other hand, will support me 100% even if I say I want to count water droplets for a living as long as it makes me happy. They are both supportive but in different ways. 

During your time as a rapper, you worked with the then Plantashun Boiz, Yemi Alade, MI Abaga to mention a few, and now you’re into acting and doing well too. What advice do you have for young creatives trying to carve a niche for themselves?

Who is your kind of woman? 

My kind of woman is kind, strong, independent, prayerful, and patient because dating an actor is definitely a handful. It takes a special type of woman to cope with our unique lifestyles. It can be very unpredictable as opposed to dating someone with a 9-5.

When is the wedding bell ringing for you?

My mother will like this question a lot! (Laughter) In due time to be honest. I’ll rather marry late and make it last forever than marry now and have it end next week. Marriage is a huge step, not one to be rushed into. But, if you see me wearing a wedding band in the nearest future, don’t be too shocked. 

Bucci Franklin 

Which actor inspired you into acting?

Growing up I’d say, Rowan Atkinson, Robin Willams, and Jim Carey who are all comedic actors by the way. 

You are also a Creative Director at RedPoleMedia, what inspires you?

As a conscious “creative disruptor”, the burning desire to create magic is constant. I’d say our ideation sessions at the office inspire me. Those sessions give me a positive mental high that translates to premium content. 

You have been active in the industry since 2013; what would you say has been your greatest achievement thus far? And what advice do you have for aspiring actors who look up to you? 

I love acting, it’s my first love. I’d say my greatest achievement as an Actor would be consciously creating a relationship between character and audience like I’ve done with characters like Nze in Rattlesnake, for example. That spark never gets old. My advice to aspiring Actors would be – First, this isn’t easy; if you are reading this now and you haven’t been a part of any drama club- in school, church, or even a mosque, quit now. But if you desire it so much that you visualize yourself as a working actor, almost every time…I’ll see you on set. God willing. 

In 2020 you were reported as the highest-grossing artiste, does that have to do with the value you place on yourself or just your talent?

Honestly, it’s the whole package. You have to put in the work, talent isn’t enough. You need to consciously align yourself with record-breaking productions so as to be asked the question “Do you place value on yourself?” 

You won the Best Lead Actor and Best Upcoming Actor at the annual Africa Film/Music Awards and Festival (AAFMF). How have you been able to maintain and grow on that achievement?

l was ecstatic then, but I am not one to hold unto accolades as such, even though I appreciate the recognition. Also to maintain and grow successfully as an actor; consistency, conscious networking, and compulsive learning as an actor in the industry are essential. 

Lateef Adedimeji 

What is the process of bringing your character to life in movies?

Basically, it’s me understanding the whole story, understanding the character and every other character in the story. This helps me as an actor to see what mannerism I want to give or add to what the character bible already puts up.

As one of the reputable actors who has featured in many Yoruba movies, how would you describe the contribution of Yoruba movies to the growth of Nigeria’s entertainment?

Yoruba movies have contributed In a lot of ways as the industry is basically an agent of change by putting out stories to correct the wrongs in society. So we are trying but I know also that we can do better. 

What do you want to be remembered for in the industry generally?

Just remember me for my good work and quality movies. I also want to be remembered for contributing positively to the industry and humanity.

You are often said to look like Odunlade Adekola, and on several occasions, both of you have been seen together, what is your relationship with him?

Odun Adekola is one of the most successful actors I know. It’s good to have a resemblance with such. He is a boss and one of the few I look up to. No bad vibes. I have learnt so much from him and still more to learn.

You produced your first film in 2004, tell us about it and what do you think has changed in the industry from then till now?

The first movie I produced was in 2007. Oseregi. A lot has changed since then. My understanding of the Industry, filmmaking, and relating with people. A lot has improved when it comes to storytelling and shooting quality movies, but a lot can still be done.

In movies, you cry effortlessly, are you an emotional person in real life?

Yes, I am a very emotional person in real life. 

You had been acting on the Yoruba front for years before now that you have started featuring in Nollywood English movies, tell us about the transition and how you have been able to adapt?

It’s basically doing a lot of rehearsal and I have never stopped trying to get better at my craft. You should know when to build yourself and never stop working hard at it. You will go places that way. 

Timini Egbuson

You are a graduate of Psychology from the University of Lagos, has this course helped in making you key into your roles better, or has your sister Dakore been able to influence you in any way?

Every experience prepares you for being an actor. I feel like my understanding of psychoanalysis and psychotherapy has also helped tremendously in creating believable, deeply human characters that people can identify with. It has also helped that I have one of the best Nollywood actors, Dakore Akande as my sister. I have always admired her craft and the undiluted passion she has for the art definitely made Hollywood more alluring. I also think that working as a sales and marketing executive for two years after University has also informed the way that I work with brands.

With such a level of success in your career and good looks, how do you handle your female fans?

I have some of the most engaged fans in the world. They are invested in any project I’m involved with and I feel like part of being a successful actor is about cultivating an audience and I have been blessed with a powerful fan base. It is a humbling feeling to wake up every day to see different organic fans like the Timini Wives Association ion on Instagram for example. All of this for me is just an indication that I am doing something right.

You are considered the face of Nollywood’s new generation of actors, how has the journey been up till now?

That’s a great compliment, thank you. It’s been a very interesting, challenging yet rewarding journey. I’ve come from struggling to find even supporting roles to the present where films are made with me in mind to play the leading man. It’s been a lesson of consistency, determination, and persistence and I cant wait to see what the future holds as I strongly believe that I am just beginning to scratch the surface and the sky is the limit.

Apart from being an actor and Producer, which can be very challenging, what other life challenges have you experienced?

Like everyone else, I’ve had to face various challenges in the course of building my career. The first of which was trying to find a way to fully monetize every aspect of my craft. Nollywood is not yet as lucrative for actors as we would like it to be, so I had to spend a lot of time figuring out how I can match my skill set with lucrative opportunities. I have been been able to find additional income streams by working on marketing campaigns with some of the biggest brands on the continent, helping them convert my audience into their customers. With some of the highest conversion rates in the industry, I am a brand favourite.

You have a great bond with your sister, Dakore, tell us about it and what she represents in your life?

l can’t possibly talk about my story as an actor without making reference to her. She has served as a mentor and a teacher at every phase I’ve gone through and I can never take that for granted or understate that. More importantly, she has guided me from day 1, even before I had any dreams of becoming an actor. 

Zubby Michael

Apart from being an actor, you are into politics by virtue of your position as a Special Adviser to the Governor of your state. How do you reconcile your position as an actor and a politician?

I don’t like to make noise. The Governor saw what happened in Onitsha a while back when I came to the spare parts market and wanted to meet with me. He immediately recognized the power that I wield with the youths and decided to give me the SA position to advise him on what the youths want. So I do my job whenever I’m needed and that’s it. 

What do you want to be remembered for in the industry and generally?

Eze Ndi Ala…(Laughter). 

You stated some months back that a large part of your revenue is donated as a charity, what motivates you to do that?

Charity is the work of the Lord. It’s one sure way to bless the heart of a man and iIt’sst bless yours back. Giving is a passion, my people say “Onye enyelu; ya nye”! He who has received should give as well. 

Read the whole interview HERE