Some of Nollywood’s famous actors have portrayed roles diverse enough to leave little room to make guesses about where they’re from. If you enjoyed the article on the successful Igbo actresses in Nollywood, here’s a list of eight Yoruba actors that shine next to any actor in the industry.
Jide Kosoko
Only a few veteran Nollywood actors are as booked and busy on movie sets as Jide Kosoko. What started for him as a childhood dream has stayed his main passion for over four decades. The actor-producer started his career in the days of travelling theatre tropes in the 1960s, but he became popular in the video film era (1990s) with films like Dr Brown and Asewo To Re Mecca. Recently, he appeared on Last Flight to Abuja, Gidi Up, and Merrymen. To date, he’s one of the few Nollywood stars featuring in English and Yoruba television and cinema productions.
Akin Lewis
Akin Lewis’ relevance in Nollywood spans more than two decades. He gained popularity for his role in Madam Dearest. Although he often plays the role of the wealthy and powerful, the veteran actor has excellently shown range in his work, from Tinsel to Hotel Majestic and King of Boys.
Sola Fosudo
Gen-Z may not remember Sola Fosudo from old movies and TV shows like Glamour Girl, True Confessions, Full Moon, and Ripples, but he’s been a solid actor since the 90s. His talent and professionalism make him relevant to this day. Some of his best performances in recent times are in releases like Agony, In Ibadan, and Clandestine.
Saheed Balogun
From the era of Ologbo Dudu, which earned him his popular “Wale Walata” nickname, to producing the first two-cast movie in Africa (Modupe Temi), Saheed Balogun has built himself into the echelon of Nigerian film OGs. When he’s not directing or producing these days, he’s killing his roles in Light in the Dark, Scourge, Funfun, and Mrs Everything.
Femi Branch
Before Femi Branch featured in a film titled Orisun in 2003 and debuted in a television commercial called Dance With Me, he began his acting career with stage plays in the 1990s. Yoruba or English roles, epic films or animations, he’s there, acting brilliantly. Watch House of Ga’a, Iwájú and Adire for proof.
Bolanle Ninalowo
Bolanle Ninalowo has grown with the industry and made a name for himself as one of Nollywood’s hottest men. While he might not be the guy for all roles, his ability to interpret and embody characters makes him one of the most sought-after actors. Some of his best acting is in Picture Perfect, Road to Yesterday, and The Bloom Boys.
Kelvin Ikeduba
The “bad boy” stereotype might be fixed on Kelvin Ikeduba, but he’s still one of the most popular crossover actors in the country. He has acting credits in popular films and TV shows like Egg of Life, Ogidan, Bumper to Bumper, and Doctor’s Quarters. If you’re looking for something recent, you should see Gold Statue and Kesari.
Gabriel Afolayan
Although Gabriel Afolayan was born into an entertainment family, he got his first acting role through Baba Sala’s F Opawon. His Akin character in Super Story’s Nnnena series got the public’s attention. Since then, he’s gone on to be part of Ijogbon, Blood Sisters, Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre, and Flawsome.
