This has been the reason why a lot of actors and producers are interested in working with them.
you can check some of their works by searching for them on twitter, youtube or Facebook.
These guys are awesome!
1. ALEX MOUTH
3, STANLEE OHIKHUARE
4, JAMES OMOKWE
5. PAUL OMORUYI
6. VICTOR SANCHEZ AGHAHOWA
1. ALEX MOTHRising Stars: O.C
Ukeje, Damilola Adegbite, Alexx Ekubo, Osas Ighodaro
Rising Stars: O.C Ukeje, Damilola Adegbite, Alexx Ekubo, Osas Ighodaro
The Nigerian movie industry, Nollywood, has a reputation for being a hub
of talent.
The past decade had us warming up to the faces of Mercy Johnson, Joseph
Benjamin, Mercy Aigbe, Funke Akindele, Iyabo Ojo, and Monalisa Chinda,
among others, but some say they’ve become less desirable among viewers
recently. And with the likes of older colleagues Genevieve Nnaji and
Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde hardly hitting movie locations these days, a
breath of fresh air is more than desired.
NET brings to you 25 Nigerian actors to watch out for as Nollywood
journeys into a new phase. Some featured in this list are just springing
up, while others you’ve probably seen in a couple of movies already.
They’re giving the older colleagues a run for their money, even beating
them during award season.
Arranged in alphabetical order, NET presents the 25 new faces of
Nollywood.
Alexx Ekubo
Alexx Ekubo. Photo: Filed
Alexx Ekubo: Although he was a cast in Lancelot Imasuen’s 2004 movie,
‘Sinners in the House’, nobody knew the 27-year-old until he emerged
second in the 2010 Mr. Nigeria pageant. He has since become a regular
face in movies directed by Desmond Elliot, who he describes as his
brother and mentor. Movies he has appeared in include ‘In the cupboard’,
‘True Citizen’, ‘Weekend Getaway’ and ‘Lagos Cougars.’ In 2012, the
UNICAL Law graduate won his first award as BON’s Most Promising Act.
Beverly Naya - New photoshoot (1)
Beverly Naya. Photo: Filed
Beverly Naya: Lancelot Imasuen’s ‘Living in exile’ ushered her into the
movie industry. Since then, Beverly has grown to become a household
name. She has appeared in several movies, including Charles Novia’s
romantic comedy, ‘Alan Poza.’ She has also joined the ‘Tinsel’ family,
playing the role of Yaya. Awards she has won include Best of Nollywood’s
Most Promising Talent in 2010 and Fast Rising actress at the City
People Awards in 2011.
Blossom Chukwujekwu. Photo: Nollysilverscreen
Blossom Chukwujekwu. Photo: Nollysilverscreen
Blossom Chukwujekwu: The experience he gathered while playing the lead
role in the production ‘Godless’ while in school inspired Blossom to
pursue acting as a career. Before he hit the limelight in 2013 playing
the lead role in the movie, ‘Flower Girl,’ Blossom had appeared in
Vivian Ejike’s ‘Private storm’, ‘Valour’ by Niyi Akinmolayan among
others. Recently, his performance in ‘Finding Mercy’ got him a GIAMA
nomination for Best New Actor.
Miss Chelsea Eze2
Chelsea Eze. Photo: Filed
Chelsea Eze: Months after an audition with producer Emem Isong, she was
called up by producer Vivian Ejike to star in the 2009 movie, ‘Silent
Scandals’, which fetched her three nominations including AMAA’s 2010
Most Promising Actress. She has since featured in other movies like
‘Hood rush’, ‘Two brides and a baby’, ‘Closed door’, and ‘Tears of
passion.’
Damilola Adegbite. Photo: Informationng.
Damilola Adegbite. Photo: Informationng.
Damilola Adegbite: Tall, curvy and sexy, Damilola seems to be on top of
the game. Her role as Telema in the TV series, ‘Tinsel’ made her a
household name and got her the Best Actress in TV Series award at the
2011 Nigeria Entertainment Awards. Many applauded her for her outing as
Kemi Williams in the movie, ‘The Flower Girl,’ her second shot at a
feature length movie, having appeared in ‘6 Hours to Christmas’ in 2010.
Unlike most of the newbies, Damilola has stage experience and was part
of the cast in the popular production ‘The V Monologues’. She was
pitched alongside Lupita Nyong’O in the Favourite Female African
International Rising Screen Talent in 2014. She and her fiancé, Ghanaian
actor Chris Attoh, recently wrapped up refresher courses at Pinewood
studios in the UK.
Daniella Okeke. Photo: Ameborepublic
Daniella Okeke. Photo: Ameborepublic
Daniella Okeke: She recently bragged about her voluptuous booty, but one
thing we think she should brag about more often is her acting talent,
which got her a nomination in the Best Actress category of this year’s
AMAA, alongside Monalisa Chinda and Uche Jombo for their roles in the
movie, ‘Lagos Cougars.’ A graduate of Fine and Applied Arts from Delta
State University, Daniella has starred in movies including ‘Show me
heaven’, ‘Indecent desires’ and ‘The evangelist.’
Deyemi Okanlawon. Photo: Wikipedia
Deyemi Okanlawon. Photo: Wikipedia
Deyemi Okanlawon: Regarded as the foremost online series actor, Deyemi
has appeared in over 15 made-for-internet productions, including ‘Gidi
up’, ‘Knock knock’, ‘Iredu’ and ‘Blink’, for which he was awarded Best
Actor in a Short Film at the In-Short Film Festival. His attempt at a
feature length movie, ‘ZR-7,’ in which he played Alabi, got him positive
reviews. He is an alumnus of UNILAG and The NYFA and hopes to produce
and direct his own movies sometime in the future.
Femi Jacobs: Photo: Megasabi
Femi Jacobs: Photo: Megasabi
Femi Jacobs: His romance with movies started in 2006 with the movie
‘Choices’, which was directed by Dan Obaseki. ‘Tango’, a TV series,
followed, as did ‘Tinsel’, before he appeared in the Mildred Okwo
directed movie, ‘The Meeting’, which brought him fame and an AMAA Best
Actor nomination. Jacobs, who is also a songwriter, singer and music
director of The Fountain of Life Church, was on set for over 12 movies
in 2013 and will again be appearing in Rita Dominic’s upcoming movie,
‘La Femme Anjola.’
Gbenro Ajibade. Photo: Bunmiodunowo
Gbenro Ajibade. Photo: Bunmiodunowo
Gbenro Ajibade: One time winner of the Most Outstanding Actor Model at
the Nigeria Model Actors Awards, dreadlocked Gbenro Ajibade got into
acting in a rather quirky way. He went to the MNet office under the
impression they were looking for models, only to find out it was an
audition. He gave it a shot and got the role as Soji in ‘Tinsel’, which
has fetched him a great deal of popularity.
Gideon Okeke. Photo: Bellanaija
Gideon Okeke. Photo: Bellanaija
Gideon Okeke: His shot at stardom came after a stint as a housemate in
2006’s Big Brother Nigeria reality show. Although he didn’t win, Gideon
maximised the exposure the show gave him and veered into acting in 2008.
He started with the MNet produced series, ‘Tinsel’, playing the
controversial character of Philip Ade-Williams. He has also starred in a
few productions, including ‘Relentless’ in 2010. He is also popular for
being a game show host.
IK Ogbonna. Photo: Encomium.
IK Ogbonna. Photo: Encomium.
I.K Ogbonna: Born in Abia state, model cum actor Ikechukwu Ogbonna
studied Sociology at the University of Jos, Plateau State. He began
acting in 2005 as a contestant in the Amstel Malta Box Office show,
after which he continued with modeling until his friend Rukky Sanda
invited him to act in ‘Lovelorn.’ Not long after, Elvis Chuks got him to
play Funke Akindele’s fiancé in ‘I wish’ and then another role in
‘Playing Safe’ and, most recently, ‘Hustlers’ alongside Nse Ikpe Etim
and Mercy Johnson.
Ivie Okujaye. Photo: Fabulous-city.
Ivie Okujaye. Photo: Fabulous-city.
Ivie Okujaye: A graduate of Economics from the University of Abuja, Ivie
has an eye for drama and movies. She won the 2009 edition of Amstel
Malta Box Office reality show and starred alongside Faze in the 2011
movie, ‘Alero’s symphony,’ which won her the AMAA Best Young Actor
award. She has since appeared in productions like ‘Kamara’s tree’, ‘The
volunteers’, ‘The black silhouette’ and ‘Make a move’ which she also
produced.
KC Ejelonu. Photo: Youflymagonline
KC Ejelonu. Photo: Youflymagonline
KC Ejelonu: Fondly called Bugatti by friends and family, Kelechi had to
forgo certain things because of her passion for acting. The UK-bred
actress left a banking job in the UK to pursue a career in acting in
Nollywood. She has starred in movies including ‘Silent pain’, ‘Heroes
and zeroes’ and dramas for Ebony Life TV. However, she refers to the TV
series ‘Tales of Eve’ as the work that shot her to limelight.
Kemi Akindoju. Photo: Nollywoodmindspace.
Lala Akindoju. Photo: Nollywoodmindspace.
Lala Akindoju: Lala kicked off her career professionally in 2005 as a
stage actress, teaming up with director Wole Oguntokun for several
performances at Terra Kulture. She made her movie debut in ‘Alan Poza,’
directed by Charles Novia. She was part of the delegation of Nigerian
actors who performed at the Nigerian House during the 2012 Olympics and
in 2013, her production company staged a set of performances of ‘The V
Monologues’ starring Taiwo Ajayi-Lycett, Bimbo Akintola, Dakore Akande
and others. She recently wrapped up acting in ‘Dazzling Mirage,’ a movie
made by ace director, Tunde Kelani.
Lilian Esoro
Lilian Esoro. Photo: Nairaland
Lilian Esoro: If her comedian friend, Bovi, hadn’t convinced her to take
a shot at acting, she would have become a fashion designer. Since she
starred in the 2006 sitcom, ‘Extended family’, Esoro has been enjoying
the game. She plays Nurse Abigail in another sitcom ‘Clinic matters’ and
is seen by many as one of the most promising actresses, having been
nominated in the Best Actress in Comedy category at the 2013 Africa
Magic Viewers Choice Awards. The Imo state born actress, who doubles as
an events planner, has acted alongside O.C. Ukeje, Jide Kosoko and Yemi
Blaq in various movies including ‘Secret room’, ‘Strive’, ‘The potter’
and ‘Next door neighbour’.
Linda Ejiofor
Linda Ejiofor. Photo: Filed
Linda Ejiofor: Six years ago, a friend of hers insisted she attend the
audition call made by MNet, producers of ‘Tinsel.’ She did and was the
better for it. Ejiofor, a graduate of Sociology from the University of
Port Harcourt became popular for her role as Bimpe Adekoya, and later as
Ejura in her first feature length movie ‘The Meeting,’ which got her
nominations at the 2013 AMAA and Nollywood Movies Awards. She has since
dumped her dream of working in an advertising agency to continue with
acting. Her most recent work is ‘Secret Room’ starring alongside O.C.
Ukeje and Lillian Esoro.
Nkiru Kiki Omeili. Photo: waholaaa's blog.
Nkiru Kiki Omeili. Photo: waholaaa’s blog.
Nkiru Kiki Omeili: A medical doctor turned actress, Kiki became popular
for her role as Titi Haastrup in the movie ‘Married but living single’
alongside Funke Akindele and Joseph Benjamin. She made her debut in the
TV series ‘Behind the smile’ in 2011. Other series she has appeared in
are ‘Nowhere to be found’, ‘Gidi culture’ and ‘Lekki wives.’ She won
Best Actress in a Supporting Role at the 2012 African Film Awards. She
also works as an OAP on Smooth FM where she anchors the programme,
Balancing Life.
O.C Ukeje. Photo: Bebeakinboade
O.C Ukeje. Photo: Bebeakinboade
O.C Ukeje: He first caught our attention when he won the 2007 Amstel
Malta Box Office reality show. His victory got him the lead role in the
movie ‘White Waters’, a role that fetched him AMAA’s Best Upcoming Actor
award. Six years down the line, Ukeje seems unrelenting, having
appeared in well over 50 TV series and movies, including the big budget
‘Half of a yellow sun’, alongside Thandie Newton and Chiwetel Ejiofor.
2013 was indeed a big year for the actor; he landed eight nominations in
the Best Actor Category of different awards, a record rarely achieved
in this part of the world. A graduate of the New York Film Academy and a
tenor singer/guitarist, O.C. has worked under industry heavyweights
including Biyi Bandele, Charles Novia and Tunde Kelani.
Okey Uzoeshi. Photo: Modernghana.
Okey Uzoeshi. Photo: Modernghana.
Okey Uzoeshi: A one-time member of the boy band, G-Exploits, Okey
competed during the 2006 Amstel Malta Box Office show but only made it
to the top ten. Unrelenting, he moved on to become one of the most
sought after actors. He has featured in movies like ‘Fatal imagination’,
‘Sweet tomorrow’, ‘The rivals’ and ‘Two brides and a baby’. He also has
been nominated for different categories at the GIAMA, AMAA and BON.
Osas Ighodaro. Photo: Filed
Osas Ighodaro. Photo: Filed
Osas Ighodaro: The 2010 Miss Black USA, Ighodaro studied Fine Arts in
Acting from the Actors Studio Drama School at Pace University. Prior to
her return to Nigeria, she had been on Broadway and acted in ‘Coloured
museum’ and ‘Revenge of the king’. She teamed up with the ‘Tinsel’
family and got a role as Adanna. She also hosts the Maltina Dancehall
Family Show.
Tamara Eteimo. Photo: Filed
Tamara Eteimo. Photo: Filed
Tamara Eteimo: Her victory at the 2011 Next Movie Star ushered her into
the industry and, so far, the Delta State born actress has appeared in a
few movies and TV series. She has continued to work earnestly as a
stage actor, starring in Elechi Amadi’s ‘Woman of Calabar’. Her role in
the movie ‘Desperate house girls’ shot her into the limelight.
Tope Tedela. Photo: Premiumtimesng
Tope Tedela. Photo: Premiumtimesng
Tope Tedela: The spotlight shone on young Tedela when he won the Africa
Magic Viewers’ Choice Award for Best Actor for his role in the movie, ‘A
mile from home.’ He has also featured in ‘Torn’ in 2013 and ‘Twisted’
in 2007, as well as some stage productions. A graduate of Mass
Communication from UNILAG, Tedela is undoubtedly an actor with great
prospects.
Uru Eke. Photo: fabulous-city.
Uru Eke. Photo: fabulous-city.
Uru Eke: Uru began acting while in the UK. She started with the group,
The Association of Multinational Performing Artists in productions like
‘The reunion’, ‘Stripes’ and ‘The salon’. She has more than 10 movies
under her belt, including ‘Ebony’, ‘Lucky Joe’, ‘African soldier’,
‘Friends in Love’, ‘Timeless passion’ and, most recently, ‘Last flight
to Abuja’. She was awarded the Best Upcoming Actress in 2011 by BON.
Uti Nwachukwu. Photo: Momo.
Uti Nwachukwu. Photo: Momo.
Uti Nwachukwu: His journey into acting began with an appearance in the
Amstel Malta Box Office and later, Big Brother All Stars, which he won
in 2010. The dreadlocked 31-year-old has about ten movies to his credit
and has starred alongside Monalisa Chinda, Ini Edo, Bukky Wright,
Genevieve Nnaji and other Nollywood top shots. He has appeared in movies
like ‘Weekend getaway’, ‘Red hot’, ‘In the cupboard’ and others. He has
won a number of awards, including Best New Actor at GIAMA 2012. He
doubles as a show host on ‘Jara’ alongside comedienne, Helen Paul.
Uzor Osimkpa
Uzor Osimkpa. Photo: Facebook
Uzor Osimkpa: She calls herself a woman and a half and this is not
unconnected to her dogged approach towards her past endeavours. Although
she didn’t win, Uzor made an impressive mark while she was at the
Gulder Ultimate Search camp and did same at the MTV VJ search, beating
hundreds of people to be part of the last 34. She plays Delmwa on MNet
sponsored series ‘Tinsel’ and has also appeared in productions including
‘Olurombi’, ‘Doctors quarters’, ‘Edge of paradise’ and ‘Shallow
waters.’...
Read More at thenet.ng/2014/05/net-special-meet-the-25-new-faces-of-nollywood/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=facebook Follow us: @theNETng on Twitter | theNETng on Facebook
Read More at thenet.ng/2014/05/net-special-meet-the-25-new-faces-of-nollywood/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=facebook Follow us: @theNETng on Twitter | theNETng on Facebook
Rising Stars: O.C
Ukeje, Damilola Adegbite, Alexx Ekubo, Osas Ighodaro
Rising Stars: O.C Ukeje, Damilola Adegbite, Alexx Ekubo, Osas Ighodaro
The Nigerian movie industry, Nollywood, has a reputation for being a hub
of talent.
The past decade had us warming up to the faces of Mercy Johnson, Joseph
Benjamin, Mercy Aigbe, Funke Akindele, Iyabo Ojo, and Monalisa Chinda,
among others, but some say they’ve become less desirable among viewers
recently. And with the likes of older colleagues Genevieve Nnaji and
Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde hardly hitting movie locations these days, a
breath of fresh air is more than desired.
NET brings to you 25 Nigerian actors to watch out for as Nollywood
journeys into a new phase. Some featured in this list are just springing
up, while others you’ve probably seen in a couple of movies already.
They’re giving the older colleagues a run for their money, even beating
them during award season.
Arranged in alphabetical order, NET presents the 25 new faces of
Nollywood.
Alexx Ekubo
Alexx Ekubo. Photo: Filed
Alexx Ekubo: Although he was a cast in Lancelot Imasuen’s 2004 movie,
‘Sinners in the House’, nobody knew the 27-year-old until he emerged
second in the 2010 Mr. Nigeria pageant. He has since become a regular
face in movies directed by Desmond Elliot, who he describes as his
brother and mentor. Movies he has appeared in include ‘In the cupboard’,
‘True Citizen’, ‘Weekend Getaway’ and ‘Lagos Cougars.’ In 2012, the
UNICAL Law graduate won his first award as BON’s Most Promising Act.
Beverly Naya - New photoshoot (1)
Beverly Naya. Photo: Filed
Beverly Naya: Lancelot Imasuen’s ‘Living in exile’ ushered her into the
movie industry. Since then, Beverly has grown to become a household
name. She has appeared in several movies, including Charles Novia’s
romantic comedy, ‘Alan Poza.’ She has also joined the ‘Tinsel’ family,
playing the role of Yaya. Awards she has won include Best of Nollywood’s
Most Promising Talent in 2010 and Fast Rising actress at the City
People Awards in 2011.
Blossom Chukwujekwu. Photo: Nollysilverscreen
Blossom Chukwujekwu. Photo: Nollysilverscreen
Blossom Chukwujekwu: The experience he gathered while playing the lead
role in the production ‘Godless’ while in school inspired Blossom to
pursue acting as a career. Before he hit the limelight in 2013 playing
the lead role in the movie, ‘Flower Girl,’ Blossom had appeared in
Vivian Ejike’s ‘Private storm’, ‘Valour’ by Niyi Akinmolayan among
others. Recently, his performance in ‘Finding Mercy’ got him a GIAMA
nomination for Best New Actor.
Miss Chelsea Eze2
Chelsea Eze. Photo: Filed
Chelsea Eze: Months after an audition with producer Emem Isong, she was
called up by producer Vivian Ejike to star in the 2009 movie, ‘Silent
Scandals’, which fetched her three nominations including AMAA’s 2010
Most Promising Actress. She has since featured in other movies like
‘Hood rush’, ‘Two brides and a baby’, ‘Closed door’, and ‘Tears of
passion.’
Damilola Adegbite. Photo: Informationng.
Damilola Adegbite. Photo: Informationng.
Damilola Adegbite: Tall, curvy and sexy, Damilola seems to be on top of
the game. Her role as Telema in the TV series, ‘Tinsel’ made her a
household name and got her the Best Actress in TV Series award at the
2011 Nigeria Entertainment Awards. Many applauded her for her outing as
Kemi Williams in the movie, ‘The Flower Girl,’ her second shot at a
feature length movie, having appeared in ‘6 Hours to Christmas’ in 2010.
Unlike most of the newbies, Damilola has stage experience and was part
of the cast in the popular production ‘The V Monologues’. She was
pitched alongside Lupita Nyong’O in the Favourite Female African
International Rising Screen Talent in 2014. She and her fiancé, Ghanaian
actor Chris Attoh, recently wrapped up refresher courses at Pinewood
studios in the UK.
Daniella Okeke. Photo: Ameborepublic
Daniella Okeke. Photo: Ameborepublic
Daniella Okeke: She recently bragged about her voluptuous booty, but one
thing we think she should brag about more often is her acting talent,
which got her a nomination in the Best Actress category of this year’s
AMAA, alongside Monalisa Chinda and Uche Jombo for their roles in the
movie, ‘Lagos Cougars.’ A graduate of Fine and Applied Arts from Delta
State University, Daniella has starred in movies including ‘Show me
heaven’, ‘Indecent desires’ and ‘The evangelist.’
Deyemi Okanlawon. Photo: Wikipedia
Deyemi Okanlawon. Photo: Wikipedia
Deyemi Okanlawon: Regarded as the foremost online series actor, Deyemi
has appeared in over 15 made-for-internet productions, including ‘Gidi
up’, ‘Knock knock’, ‘Iredu’ and ‘Blink’, for which he was awarded Best
Actor in a Short Film at the In-Short Film Festival. His attempt at a
feature length movie, ‘ZR-7,’ in which he played Alabi, got him positive
reviews. He is an alumnus of UNILAG and The NYFA and hopes to produce
and direct his own movies sometime in the future.
Femi Jacobs: Photo: Megasabi
Femi Jacobs: Photo: Megasabi
Femi Jacobs: His romance with movies started in 2006 with the movie
‘Choices’, which was directed by Dan Obaseki. ‘Tango’, a TV series,
followed, as did ‘Tinsel’, before he appeared in the Mildred Okwo
directed movie, ‘The Meeting’, which brought him fame and an AMAA Best
Actor nomination. Jacobs, who is also a songwriter, singer and music
director of The Fountain of Life Church, was on set for over 12 movies
in 2013 and will again be appearing in Rita Dominic’s upcoming movie,
‘La Femme Anjola.’
Gbenro Ajibade. Photo: Bunmiodunowo
Gbenro Ajibade. Photo: Bunmiodunowo
Gbenro Ajibade: One time winner of the Most Outstanding Actor Model at
the Nigeria Model Actors Awards, dreadlocked Gbenro Ajibade got into
acting in a rather quirky way. He went to the MNet office under the
impression they were looking for models, only to find out it was an
audition. He gave it a shot and got the role as Soji in ‘Tinsel’, which
has fetched him a great deal of popularity.
Gideon Okeke. Photo: Bellanaija
Gideon Okeke. Photo: Bellanaija
Gideon Okeke: His shot at stardom came after a stint as a housemate in
2006’s Big Brother Nigeria reality show. Although he didn’t win, Gideon
maximised the exposure the show gave him and veered into acting in 2008.
He started with the MNet produced series, ‘Tinsel’, playing the
controversial character of Philip Ade-Williams. He has also starred in a
few productions, including ‘Relentless’ in 2010. He is also popular for
being a game show host.
IK Ogbonna. Photo: Encomium.
IK Ogbonna. Photo: Encomium.
I.K Ogbonna: Born in Abia state, model cum actor Ikechukwu Ogbonna
studied Sociology at the University of Jos, Plateau State. He began
acting in 2005 as a contestant in the Amstel Malta Box Office show,
after which he continued with modeling until his friend Rukky Sanda
invited him to act in ‘Lovelorn.’ Not long after, Elvis Chuks got him to
play Funke Akindele’s fiancé in ‘I wish’ and then another role in
‘Playing Safe’ and, most recently, ‘Hustlers’ alongside Nse Ikpe Etim
and Mercy Johnson.
Ivie Okujaye. Photo: Fabulous-city.
Ivie Okujaye. Photo: Fabulous-city.
Ivie Okujaye: A graduate of Economics from the University of Abuja, Ivie
has an eye for drama and movies. She won the 2009 edition of Amstel
Malta Box Office reality show and starred alongside Faze in the 2011
movie, ‘Alero’s symphony,’ which won her the AMAA Best Young Actor
award. She has since appeared in productions like ‘Kamara’s tree’, ‘The
volunteers’, ‘The black silhouette’ and ‘Make a move’ which she also
produced.
KC Ejelonu. Photo: Youflymagonline
KC Ejelonu. Photo: Youflymagonline
KC Ejelonu: Fondly called Bugatti by friends and family, Kelechi had to
forgo certain things because of her passion for acting. The UK-bred
actress left a banking job in the UK to pursue a career in acting in
Nollywood. She has starred in movies including ‘Silent pain’, ‘Heroes
and zeroes’ and dramas for Ebony Life TV. However, she refers to the TV
series ‘Tales of Eve’ as the work that shot her to limelight.
Kemi Akindoju. Photo: Nollywoodmindspace.
Lala Akindoju. Photo: Nollywoodmindspace.
Lala Akindoju: Lala kicked off her career professionally in 2005 as a
stage actress, teaming up with director Wole Oguntokun for several
performances at Terra Kulture. She made her movie debut in ‘Alan Poza,’
directed by Charles Novia. She was part of the delegation of Nigerian
actors who performed at the Nigerian House during the 2012 Olympics and
in 2013, her production company staged a set of performances of ‘The V
Monologues’ starring Taiwo Ajayi-Lycett, Bimbo Akintola, Dakore Akande
and others. She recently wrapped up acting in ‘Dazzling Mirage,’ a movie
made by ace director, Tunde Kelani.
Lilian Esoro
Lilian Esoro. Photo: Nairaland
Lilian Esoro: If her comedian friend, Bovi, hadn’t convinced her to take
a shot at acting, she would have become a fashion designer. Since she
starred in the 2006 sitcom, ‘Extended family’, Esoro has been enjoying
the game. She plays Nurse Abigail in another sitcom ‘Clinic matters’ and
is seen by many as one of the most promising actresses, having been
nominated in the Best Actress in Comedy category at the 2013 Africa
Magic Viewers Choice Awards. The Imo state born actress, who doubles as
an events planner, has acted alongside O.C. Ukeje, Jide Kosoko and Yemi
Blaq in various movies including ‘Secret room’, ‘Strive’, ‘The potter’
and ‘Next door neighbour’.
Linda Ejiofor
Linda Ejiofor. Photo: Filed
Linda Ejiofor: Six years ago, a friend of hers insisted she attend the
audition call made by MNet, producers of ‘Tinsel.’ She did and was the
better for it. Ejiofor, a graduate of Sociology from the University of
Port Harcourt became popular for her role as Bimpe Adekoya, and later as
Ejura in her first feature length movie ‘The Meeting,’ which got her
nominations at the 2013 AMAA and Nollywood Movies Awards. She has since
dumped her dream of working in an advertising agency to continue with
acting. Her most recent work is ‘Secret Room’ starring alongside O.C.
Ukeje and Lillian Esoro.
Nkiru Kiki Omeili. Photo: waholaaa's blog.
Nkiru Kiki Omeili. Photo: waholaaa’s blog.
Nkiru Kiki Omeili: A medical doctor turned actress, Kiki became popular
for her role as Titi Haastrup in the movie ‘Married but living single’
alongside Funke Akindele and Joseph Benjamin. She made her debut in the
TV series ‘Behind the smile’ in 2011. Other series she has appeared in
are ‘Nowhere to be found’, ‘Gidi culture’ and ‘Lekki wives.’ She won
Best Actress in a Supporting Role at the 2012 African Film Awards. She
also works as an OAP on Smooth FM where she anchors the programme,
Balancing Life.
O.C Ukeje. Photo: Bebeakinboade
O.C Ukeje. Photo: Bebeakinboade
O.C Ukeje: He first caught our attention when he won the 2007 Amstel
Malta Box Office reality show. His victory got him the lead role in the
movie ‘White Waters’, a role that fetched him AMAA’s Best Upcoming Actor
award. Six years down the line, Ukeje seems unrelenting, having
appeared in well over 50 TV series and movies, including the big budget
‘Half of a yellow sun’, alongside Thandie Newton and Chiwetel Ejiofor.
2013 was indeed a big year for the actor; he landed eight nominations in
the Best Actor Category of different awards, a record rarely achieved
in this part of the world. A graduate of the New York Film Academy and a
tenor singer/guitarist, O.C. has worked under industry heavyweights
including Biyi Bandele, Charles Novia and Tunde Kelani.
Okey Uzoeshi. Photo: Modernghana.
Okey Uzoeshi. Photo: Modernghana.
Okey Uzoeshi: A one-time member of the boy band, G-Exploits, Okey
competed during the 2006 Amstel Malta Box Office show but only made it
to the top ten. Unrelenting, he moved on to become one of the most
sought after actors. He has featured in movies like ‘Fatal imagination’,
‘Sweet tomorrow’, ‘The rivals’ and ‘Two brides and a baby’. He also has
been nominated for different categories at the GIAMA, AMAA and BON.
Osas Ighodaro. Photo: Filed
Osas Ighodaro. Photo: Filed
Osas Ighodaro: The 2010 Miss Black USA, Ighodaro studied Fine Arts in
Acting from the Actors Studio Drama School at Pace University. Prior to
her return to Nigeria, she had been on Broadway and acted in ‘Coloured
museum’ and ‘Revenge of the king’. She teamed up with the ‘Tinsel’
family and got a role as Adanna. She also hosts the Maltina Dancehall
Family Show.
Tamara Eteimo. Photo: Filed
Tamara Eteimo. Photo: Filed
Tamara Eteimo: Her victory at the 2011 Next Movie Star ushered her into
the industry and, so far, the Delta State born actress has appeared in a
few movies and TV series. She has continued to work earnestly as a
stage actor, starring in Elechi Amadi’s ‘Woman of Calabar’. Her role in
the movie ‘Desperate house girls’ shot her into the limelight.
Tope Tedela. Photo: Premiumtimesng
Tope Tedela. Photo: Premiumtimesng
Tope Tedela: The spotlight shone on young Tedela when he won the Africa
Magic Viewers’ Choice Award for Best Actor for his role in the movie, ‘A
mile from home.’ He has also featured in ‘Torn’ in 2013 and ‘Twisted’
in 2007, as well as some stage productions. A graduate of Mass
Communication from UNILAG, Tedela is undoubtedly an actor with great
prospects.
Uru Eke. Photo: fabulous-city.
Uru Eke. Photo: fabulous-city.
Uru Eke: Uru began acting while in the UK. She started with the group,
The Association of Multinational Performing Artists in productions like
‘The reunion’, ‘Stripes’ and ‘The salon’. She has more than 10 movies
under her belt, including ‘Ebony’, ‘Lucky Joe’, ‘African soldier’,
‘Friends in Love’, ‘Timeless passion’ and, most recently, ‘Last flight
to Abuja’. She was awarded the Best Upcoming Actress in 2011 by BON.
Uti Nwachukwu. Photo: Momo.
Uti Nwachukwu. Photo: Momo.
Uti Nwachukwu: His journey into acting began with an appearance in the
Amstel Malta Box Office and later, Big Brother All Stars, which he won
in 2010. The dreadlocked 31-year-old has about ten movies to his credit
and has starred alongside Monalisa Chinda, Ini Edo, Bukky Wright,
Genevieve Nnaji and other Nollywood top shots. He has appeared in movies
like ‘Weekend getaway’, ‘Red hot’, ‘In the cupboard’ and others. He has
won a number of awards, including Best New Actor at GIAMA 2012. He
doubles as a show host on ‘Jara’ alongside comedienne, Helen Paul.
Uzor Osimkpa
Uzor Osimkpa. Photo: Facebook
Uzor Osimkpa: She calls herself a woman and a half and this is not
unconnected to her dogged approach towards her past endeavours. Although
she didn’t win, Uzor made an impressive mark while she was at the
Gulder Ultimate Search camp and did same at the MTV VJ search, beating
hundreds of people to be part of the last 34. She plays Delmwa on MNet
sponsored series ‘Tinsel’ and has also appeared in productions including
‘Olurombi’, ‘Doctors quarters’, ‘Edge of paradise’ and ‘Shallow
waters.’...
Read More at thenet.ng/2014/05/net-special-meet-the-25-new-faces-of-nollywood/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=facebook Follow us: @theNETng on Twitter | theNETng on Facebook
Read More at thenet.ng/2014/05/net-special-meet-the-25-new-faces-of-nollywood/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=facebook Follow us: @theNETng on Twitter | theNETng on Facebook
Rising Stars: O.C
Ukeje, Damilola Adegbite, Alexx Ekubo, Osas Ighodaro
Rising Stars: O.C Ukeje, Damilola Adegbite, Alexx Ekubo, Osas Ighodaro
The Nigerian movie industry, Nollywood, has a reputation for being a hub
of talent.
The past decade had us warming up to the faces of Mercy Johnson, Joseph
Benjamin, Mercy Aigbe, Funke Akindele, Iyabo Ojo, and Monalisa Chinda,
among others, but some say they’ve become less desirable among viewers
recently. And with the likes of older colleagues Genevieve Nnaji and
Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde hardly hitting movie locations these days, a
breath of fresh air is more than desired.
NET brings to you 25 Nigerian actors to watch out for as Nollywood
journeys into a new phase. Some featured in this list are just springing
up, while others you’ve probably seen in a couple of movies already.
They’re giving the older colleagues a run for their money, even beating
them during award season.
Arranged in alphabetical order, NET presents the 25 new faces of
Nollywood.
Alexx Ekubo
Alexx Ekubo. Photo: Filed
Alexx Ekubo: Although he was a cast in Lancelot Imasuen’s 2004 movie,
‘Sinners in the House’, nobody knew the 27-year-old until he emerged
second in the 2010 Mr. Nigeria pageant. He has since become a regular
face in movies directed by Desmond Elliot, who he describes as his
brother and mentor. Movies he has appeared in include ‘In the cupboard’,
‘True Citizen’, ‘Weekend Getaway’ and ‘Lagos Cougars.’ In 2012, the
UNICAL Law graduate won his first award as BON’s Most Promising Act.
Beverly Naya - New photoshoot (1)
Beverly Naya. Photo: Filed
Beverly Naya: Lancelot Imasuen’s ‘Living in exile’ ushered her into the
movie industry. Since then, Beverly has grown to become a household
name. She has appeared in several movies, including Charles Novia’s
romantic comedy, ‘Alan Poza.’ She has also joined the ‘Tinsel’ family,
playing the role of Yaya. Awards she has won include Best of Nollywood’s
Most Promising Talent in 2010 and Fast Rising actress at the City
People Awards in 2011.
Blossom Chukwujekwu. Photo: Nollysilverscreen
Blossom Chukwujekwu. Photo: Nollysilverscreen
Blossom Chukwujekwu: The experience he gathered while playing the lead
role in the production ‘Godless’ while in school inspired Blossom to
pursue acting as a career. Before he hit the limelight in 2013 playing
the lead role in the movie, ‘Flower Girl,’ Blossom had appeared in
Vivian Ejike’s ‘Private storm’, ‘Valour’ by Niyi Akinmolayan among
others. Recently, his performance in ‘Finding Mercy’ got him a GIAMA
nomination for Best New Actor.
Miss Chelsea Eze2
Chelsea Eze. Photo: Filed
Chelsea Eze: Months after an audition with producer Emem Isong, she was
called up by producer Vivian Ejike to star in the 2009 movie, ‘Silent
Scandals’, which fetched her three nominations including AMAA’s 2010
Most Promising Actress. She has since featured in other movies like
‘Hood rush’, ‘Two brides and a baby’, ‘Closed door’, and ‘Tears of
passion.’
Damilola Adegbite. Photo: Informationng.
Damilola Adegbite. Photo: Informationng.
Damilola Adegbite: Tall, curvy and sexy, Damilola seems to be on top of
the game. Her role as Telema in the TV series, ‘Tinsel’ made her a
household name and got her the Best Actress in TV Series award at the
2011 Nigeria Entertainment Awards. Many applauded her for her outing as
Kemi Williams in the movie, ‘The Flower Girl,’ her second shot at a
feature length movie, having appeared in ‘6 Hours to Christmas’ in 2010.
Unlike most of the newbies, Damilola has stage experience and was part
of the cast in the popular production ‘The V Monologues’. She was
pitched alongside Lupita Nyong’O in the Favourite Female African
International Rising Screen Talent in 2014. She and her fiancé, Ghanaian
actor Chris Attoh, recently wrapped up refresher courses at Pinewood
studios in the UK.
Daniella Okeke. Photo: Ameborepublic
Daniella Okeke. Photo: Ameborepublic
Daniella Okeke: She recently bragged about her voluptuous booty, but one
thing we think she should brag about more often is her acting talent,
which got her a nomination in the Best Actress category of this year’s
AMAA, alongside Monalisa Chinda and Uche Jombo for their roles in the
movie, ‘Lagos Cougars.’ A graduate of Fine and Applied Arts from Delta
State University, Daniella has starred in movies including ‘Show me
heaven’, ‘Indecent desires’ and ‘The evangelist.’
Deyemi Okanlawon. Photo: Wikipedia
Deyemi Okanlawon. Photo: Wikipedia
Deyemi Okanlawon: Regarded as the foremost online series actor, Deyemi
has appeared in over 15 made-for-internet productions, including ‘Gidi
up’, ‘Knock knock’, ‘Iredu’ and ‘Blink’, for which he was awarded Best
Actor in a Short Film at the In-Short Film Festival. His attempt at a
feature length movie, ‘ZR-7,’ in which he played Alabi, got him positive
reviews. He is an alumnus of UNILAG and The NYFA and hopes to produce
and direct his own movies sometime in the future.
Femi Jacobs: Photo: Megasabi
Femi Jacobs: Photo: Megasabi
Femi Jacobs: His romance with movies started in 2006 with the movie
‘Choices’, which was directed by Dan Obaseki. ‘Tango’, a TV series,
followed, as did ‘Tinsel’, before he appeared in the Mildred Okwo
directed movie, ‘The Meeting’, which brought him fame and an AMAA Best
Actor nomination. Jacobs, who is also a songwriter, singer and music
director of The Fountain of Life Church, was on set for over 12 movies
in 2013 and will again be appearing in Rita Dominic’s upcoming movie,
‘La Femme Anjola.’
Gbenro Ajibade. Photo: Bunmiodunowo
Gbenro Ajibade. Photo: Bunmiodunowo
Gbenro Ajibade: One time winner of the Most Outstanding Actor Model at
the Nigeria Model Actors Awards, dreadlocked Gbenro Ajibade got into
acting in a rather quirky way. He went to the MNet office under the
impression they were looking for models, only to find out it was an
audition. He gave it a shot and got the role as Soji in ‘Tinsel’, which
has fetched him a great deal of popularity.
Gideon Okeke. Photo: Bellanaija
Gideon Okeke. Photo: Bellanaija
Gideon Okeke: His shot at stardom came after a stint as a housemate in
2006’s Big Brother Nigeria reality show. Although he didn’t win, Gideon
maximised the exposure the show gave him and veered into acting in 2008.
He started with the MNet produced series, ‘Tinsel’, playing the
controversial character of Philip Ade-Williams. He has also starred in a
few productions, including ‘Relentless’ in 2010. He is also popular for
being a game show host.
IK Ogbonna. Photo: Encomium.
IK Ogbonna. Photo: Encomium.
I.K Ogbonna: Born in Abia state, model cum actor Ikechukwu Ogbonna
studied Sociology at the University of Jos, Plateau State. He began
acting in 2005 as a contestant in the Amstel Malta Box Office show,
after which he continued with modeling until his friend Rukky Sanda
invited him to act in ‘Lovelorn.’ Not long after, Elvis Chuks got him to
play Funke Akindele’s fiancé in ‘I wish’ and then another role in
‘Playing Safe’ and, most recently, ‘Hustlers’ alongside Nse Ikpe Etim
and Mercy Johnson.
Ivie Okujaye. Photo: Fabulous-city.
Ivie Okujaye. Photo: Fabulous-city.
Ivie Okujaye: A graduate of Economics from the University of Abuja, Ivie
has an eye for drama and movies. She won the 2009 edition of Amstel
Malta Box Office reality show and starred alongside Faze in the 2011
movie, ‘Alero’s symphony,’ which won her the AMAA Best Young Actor
award. She has since appeared in productions like ‘Kamara’s tree’, ‘The
volunteers’, ‘The black silhouette’ and ‘Make a move’ which she also
produced.
KC Ejelonu. Photo: Youflymagonline
KC Ejelonu. Photo: Youflymagonline
KC Ejelonu: Fondly called Bugatti by friends and family, Kelechi had to
forgo certain things because of her passion for acting. The UK-bred
actress left a banking job in the UK to pursue a career in acting in
Nollywood. She has starred in movies including ‘Silent pain’, ‘Heroes
and zeroes’ and dramas for Ebony Life TV. However, she refers to the TV
series ‘Tales of Eve’ as the work that shot her to limelight.
Kemi Akindoju. Photo: Nollywoodmindspace.
Lala Akindoju. Photo: Nollywoodmindspace.
Lala Akindoju: Lala kicked off her career professionally in 2005 as a
stage actress, teaming up with director Wole Oguntokun for several
performances at Terra Kulture. She made her movie debut in ‘Alan Poza,’
directed by Charles Novia. She was part of the delegation of Nigerian
actors who performed at the Nigerian House during the 2012 Olympics and
in 2013, her production company staged a set of performances of ‘The V
Monologues’ starring Taiwo Ajayi-Lycett, Bimbo Akintola, Dakore Akande
and others. She recently wrapped up acting in ‘Dazzling Mirage,’ a movie
made by ace director, Tunde Kelani.
Lilian Esoro
Lilian Esoro. Photo: Nairaland
Lilian Esoro: If her comedian friend, Bovi, hadn’t convinced her to take
a shot at acting, she would have become a fashion designer. Since she
starred in the 2006 sitcom, ‘Extended family’, Esoro has been enjoying
the game. She plays Nurse Abigail in another sitcom ‘Clinic matters’ and
is seen by many as one of the most promising actresses, having been
nominated in the Best Actress in Comedy category at the 2013 Africa
Magic Viewers Choice Awards. The Imo state born actress, who doubles as
an events planner, has acted alongside O.C. Ukeje, Jide Kosoko and Yemi
Blaq in various movies including ‘Secret room’, ‘Strive’, ‘The potter’
and ‘Next door neighbour’.
Linda Ejiofor
Linda Ejiofor. Photo: Filed
Linda Ejiofor: Six years ago, a friend of hers insisted she attend the
audition call made by MNet, producers of ‘Tinsel.’ She did and was the
better for it. Ejiofor, a graduate of Sociology from the University of
Port Harcourt became popular for her role as Bimpe Adekoya, and later as
Ejura in her first feature length movie ‘The Meeting,’ which got her
nominations at the 2013 AMAA and Nollywood Movies Awards. She has since
dumped her dream of working in an advertising agency to continue with
acting. Her most recent work is ‘Secret Room’ starring alongside O.C.
Ukeje and Lillian Esoro.
Nkiru Kiki Omeili. Photo: waholaaa's blog.
Nkiru Kiki Omeili. Photo: waholaaa’s blog.
Nkiru Kiki Omeili: A medical doctor turned actress, Kiki became popular
for her role as Titi Haastrup in the movie ‘Married but living single’
alongside Funke Akindele and Joseph Benjamin. She made her debut in the
TV series ‘Behind the smile’ in 2011. Other series she has appeared in
are ‘Nowhere to be found’, ‘Gidi culture’ and ‘Lekki wives.’ She won
Best Actress in a Supporting Role at the 2012 African Film Awards. She
also works as an OAP on Smooth FM where she anchors the programme,
Balancing Life.
O.C Ukeje. Photo: Bebeakinboade
O.C Ukeje. Photo: Bebeakinboade
O.C Ukeje: He first caught our attention when he won the 2007 Amstel
Malta Box Office reality show. His victory got him the lead role in the
movie ‘White Waters’, a role that fetched him AMAA’s Best Upcoming Actor
award. Six years down the line, Ukeje seems unrelenting, having
appeared in well over 50 TV series and movies, including the big budget
‘Half of a yellow sun’, alongside Thandie Newton and Chiwetel Ejiofor.
2013 was indeed a big year for the actor; he landed eight nominations in
the Best Actor Category of different awards, a record rarely achieved
in this part of the world. A graduate of the New York Film Academy and a
tenor singer/guitarist, O.C. has worked under industry heavyweights
including Biyi Bandele, Charles Novia and Tunde Kelani.
Okey Uzoeshi. Photo: Modernghana.
Okey Uzoeshi. Photo: Modernghana.
Okey Uzoeshi: A one-time member of the boy band, G-Exploits, Okey
competed during the 2006 Amstel Malta Box Office show but only made it
to the top ten. Unrelenting, he moved on to become one of the most
sought after actors. He has featured in movies like ‘Fatal imagination’,
‘Sweet tomorrow’, ‘The rivals’ and ‘Two brides and a baby’. He also has
been nominated for different categories at the GIAMA, AMAA and BON.
Osas Ighodaro. Photo: Filed
Osas Ighodaro. Photo: Filed
Osas Ighodaro: The 2010 Miss Black USA, Ighodaro studied Fine Arts in
Acting from the Actors Studio Drama School at Pace University. Prior to
her return to Nigeria, she had been on Broadway and acted in ‘Coloured
museum’ and ‘Revenge of the king’. She teamed up with the ‘Tinsel’
family and got a role as Adanna. She also hosts the Maltina Dancehall
Family Show.
Tamara Eteimo. Photo: Filed
Tamara Eteimo. Photo: Filed
Tamara Eteimo: Her victory at the 2011 Next Movie Star ushered her into
the industry and, so far, the Delta State born actress has appeared in a
few movies and TV series. She has continued to work earnestly as a
stage actor, starring in Elechi Amadi’s ‘Woman of Calabar’. Her role in
the movie ‘Desperate house girls’ shot her into the limelight.
Tope Tedela. Photo: Premiumtimesng
Tope Tedela. Photo: Premiumtimesng
Tope Tedela: The spotlight shone on young Tedela when he won the Africa
Magic Viewers’ Choice Award for Best Actor for his role in the movie, ‘A
mile from home.’ He has also featured in ‘Torn’ in 2013 and ‘Twisted’
in 2007, as well as some stage productions. A graduate of Mass
Communication from UNILAG, Tedela is undoubtedly an actor with great
prospects.
Uru Eke. Photo: fabulous-city.
Uru Eke. Photo: fabulous-city.
Uru Eke: Uru began acting while in the UK. She started with the group,
The Association of Multinational Performing Artists in productions like
‘The reunion’, ‘Stripes’ and ‘The salon’. She has more than 10 movies
under her belt, including ‘Ebony’, ‘Lucky Joe’, ‘African soldier’,
‘Friends in Love’, ‘Timeless passion’ and, most recently, ‘Last flight
to Abuja’. She was awarded the Best Upcoming Actress in 2011 by BON.
Uti Nwachukwu. Photo: Momo.
Uti Nwachukwu. Photo: Momo.
Uti Nwachukwu: His journey into acting began with an appearance in the
Amstel Malta Box Office and later, Big Brother All Stars, which he won
in 2010. The dreadlocked 31-year-old has about ten movies to his credit
and has starred alongside Monalisa Chinda, Ini Edo, Bukky Wright,
Genevieve Nnaji and other Nollywood top shots. He has appeared in movies
like ‘Weekend getaway’, ‘Red hot’, ‘In the cupboard’ and others. He has
won a number of awards, including Best New Actor at GIAMA 2012. He
doubles as a show host on ‘Jara’ alongside comedienne, Helen Paul.
Uzor Osimkpa
Uzor Osimkpa. Photo: Facebook
Uzor Osimkpa: She calls herself a woman and a half and this is not
unconnected to her dogged approach towards her past endeavours. Although
she didn’t win, Uzor made an impressive mark while she was at the
Gulder Ultimate Search camp and did same at the MTV VJ search, beating
hundreds of people to be part of the last 34. She plays Delmwa on MNet
sponsored series ‘Tinsel’ and has also appeared in productions including
‘Olurombi’, ‘Doctors quarters’, ‘Edge of paradise’ and ‘Shallow
waters.’...
Read More at thenet.ng/2014/05/net-special-meet-the-25-new-faces-of-nollywood/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=facebook Follow us: @theNETng on Twitter | theNETng on Facebook
Read More at thenet.ng/2014/05/net-special-meet-the-25-new-faces-of-nollywood/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=facebook Follow us: @theNETng on Twitter | theNETng on Facebook
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