Nollywood actress Jemima Osunde has raised concerns over a growing trend in the Nigerian film industry, where actors are increasingly required to become social media influencers before securing roles.
Speaking in a recent conversation with fellow actor Jammal Ibrahim, Osunde expressed her discomfort with the shift, saying it has become common for filmmakers to prioritize online presence over talent. “Now, it’s as though they are forcing every actor to be a social media content creator before casting them. It’s as if you must dance on the internet to get roles. Why?” she asked.
She argued that an actor’s job is to perform, not to promote films through social media antics. “If you’re not an actor with a strong social media presence, we’re not casting you because we need you to sell our film. That shouldn’t be the actor’s job,” she added.
Backing her sentiments, Jammal Ibrahim noted the importance of management in helping actors navigate these demands. “A good manager would look at your personality and figure out how to work with who you are—not push you to be everyone else,” he said.
Ibrahim also rejected the idea of participating in promotional stunts that do not align with his personality. “If you’re doing a PR stunt for a film and you’re going to be dancing, seriously, I’m not going to be part of it, unless I feel like the dance is something I can actually do. I don’t want to look stupid on screen,” he said.
