“Too Much Envy” — Ngozi Nwosu Calls Out Nollywood Colleagues

Ngozi Nwosu

Envy & Jealousy in Nollywood: Ngozi Nwosu Speaks

“The way I am now, there are functions that I attend, and you look at the Gen-Zs come up to me...”

Veteran Nollywood actress Ngozi Nwosu shares her insights on navigating envy and jealousy in the competitive film industry. Read about her experiences, advice, and the challenges she's faced in her decades-long career.

Ngozi Nwosu, a seasoned Nollywood actress, offers insights and advice on navigating envy and jealousy in the competitive film industry. She emphasizes that while challenges are inherent in every profession, the ability to confront and overcome them is crucial for success. Nollywood, like many industries, is marked by intense rivalries fueled by the pursuit of fame and success.

“One thing I want people to take note of today is that there's no field in which you won't be challenged, but what is important is your ability to withstand the heat. Know what you want. Challenges will come; it's a thing in our lives, but don't let the challenge, 'challenge' you. When the challenges come, face them well. Challenge them.”

With decades of experience in the film industry, 61-year-old Ngozi Nwosu reflects on the difficulties she's faced and how she's managed to thrive despite the obstacles.

“I am sitting here talking to you people. I don't look like what I've been through. To God be the glory because I've learned one thing: to face my challenges squarely. I face it when they come. Honestly, being a veteran has not been 'moi-moi.' It has not been 'moi-moi' in Nollywood. I am sure they can attest to it.”

Ngozi Nwosu credits her faith and prayerfulness for helping her navigate the challenges of envy in Nollywood. She shared personal experiences where younger colleagues have questioned her enduring presence in the industry, even going so far as to suggest she step aside for the new generation.

“You have to keep up with prayer every day. If you visit an herbalist, you better make sure he is doing the charm well for you because in our field, although I won't say it's only our field, there is envy and jealousy, so there's no way challenges will not come. If you're doing well in my industry, it's a problem for some people. The fact that you wake up and feel good is a problem for some actors.

“The way I am now, there are functions that I attend, and you look at the Gen-Zs come up to me, instead of saying ma you're looking good, the next thing I will hear is Malè what is it na? You don't want to leave this industry for us, you don dey old na. But I'm happy they tell me I don't want to leave the industry. I was in it before you so that I will put my body well. Nobody will drive me because I did not drive anybody. But you see this our new generation, the kind of challenges they want the older ones to face is not easy.

“If you're not strong, you will wither away if you are not the strong type that has spirit and doesn't have God behind you. My sis, this thing we are saying is not easy. I listened to our sister talking about finances and the money she mentioned. That is another challenge. But how do you face it? Challenge the challenge like how I have overcome my challenge in Nollywood.” She added.

Ngozi Nwosu notes that modern actors face fewer hurdles than her generation did when starting out in the industry.

She said, “It was tough for all of us. Even though I know the new generation of actors are enjoying themselves, they never suffered half of what we did. We are the pioneers; we have laid the ground for you people to walk on.”

Ngozi Nwosu observes that the current crop of actors has a relatively smoother ride compared to her generation, who faced more challenges when they started out in the industry.

“In as much as this job has become an all- comers affair, we need people that know their onions. The industry has become a place where people use what they have to get what they want. If you don't have a passion for acting, with one challenge, you will fall by the wayside. If you have passion for it, no matter the storm, there is light at the end of the tunnel.”

Ngozi Nwosu launched her acting career in Yoruba films before transitioning to home videos with the iconic 1992 film Living in Bondage. With over 100 films to her credit, she has solidified her position as a Nollywood legend. Her iconic role as Peaceful Peace in the beloved 1990s sitcom Fuji House of Commotion remains a fan favorite.

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