When it comes to his personal life, Elvis Nolasco is tight-lipped. However, being a celebrity would mean that the spotlight is always on him. As a result, it is confirmed that Elvis Nolasco is a father of one from a previous relationship.

Elvis Nolasco’s Early Life and Career Background

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Born on 19 December 1968, Elvis Nolasco grew up with a passion and wanted to be part of the acting entertainment business. He started dancing to Latin music and salsa at an early age. He also said that as a kid, he engaged in several other activities including baseball, street two-hand touch football, roller-skating and ice skating, swimming, and acrobatics.

He Initially Worked on Being a Professional Dancer

Stemming from his love for dancing, Elvis considered being a professional dancer in his early days. According to sources, he trained hard and spent most of his evenings dancing to some Latino music while he was in his Dominican family home. His love for salsa music led him to join the legendary break dancers Soul Sonic Rockers where he spent nights break dancing.

With time, Elvis’ drama teacher in school, Robert Stonebridge noticed something special in him that could complement his dance skills. He introduced him to their high school drama group and made him feature in their high school production The Rainmaker. Thanks to the encouragement Robert gave Elvis, he was able to study acting professionally in Philadelphia and this served as a springboard to his professional career.

Elvis is Worth about $1 Million 

Elvis has not officially put forward his total earnings and income. But he is widely said to be worth a net worth of about $1 million. His major source of income is his entertainment career which spans about 30 years.

The American Actor is not Married

Elvis Nolasco is not married even though he has previously been romantically involved with a couple of women. Moreover, it is not clear whether or not the actor is dating anyone at the moment. However, he is a proud father of one. His daughter, Nyla was born on February 20, 1997, and she is currently 27 years old. Although Nyla is known as the daughter of Elvis, the identity of her mother is still yet to be made public at the time of writing. 

SEE ALSO: Jahbril Cook: Everything We Know About The Actor’s Life, Career, And Other Facts 

Interesting Facts About Elvis Nolasco

1. His Family Has been His Biggest Influence

Although not much is known about Elvis’ family, he has said they are his biggest influence throughout his life and work. According to him, his parents taught him the importance of hard work in a dignified way. Also, his aunts and uncles taught him the value of family, music, dance, and history.

2. Nolasco Appears to have a Special bond with His Mom

Elvis Nolasco is undoubtedly a very private person when it comes to his personal life. Although there isn’t much that is available about his family in the public space, he appears to have a special bond with his mother. He previously offered her a ‘blank cheque’ on Mother’s Day, asking her to request whatever she may want. For a celebrity mom, Elvis’ mother is already comfortable and not in need of anything. However, she jokingly asked for a hot burger and fries.

3. He Made His Movie Debut in 1994

Elvis never looked back since after his drama teacher introduced him to the stage. He went pro in 1994 after making his debut film appearance in I Like That. His other works that followed include Clockers (1995), Third Watch (1999-2005), and Celia: The Life and Music of Celia Cruz (2007).

At the moment, Elvis is mostly known for his roles in MGM+’s NAACP Image Award-winning crime drama, Godfather of Harlem, and ABC’s Primetime Emmy Award-winning anthology series, American Crime. His works have also been recognized by reputable film institutions like the Critics’ Choice Association’s Critics Choice Television Awards, and the International Press Academy’s Satellite Awards.

4. Elvis Nolasco’s Filmography

5. The Actor’s Daughter is a Makeup Artist

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Elvis’ daughter, Nyla is a professional makeup and hair stylist and her artistry has led her to work in the makeup department of movies like Fell Ends (2021) and InVade (2021). Moreover, she has also made an appearance as an actor in the movie, She’s Gotta Have It (2017).

The post Elvis Nolasco – Bio, Is He Married? Net Worth, 5 Interesting Facts About Him appeared first on WeAfrique.

In the 1990s, there were no many child actors as there are today. Yet, it didn’t change the fact that they made their marks and have helped in sustaining the industry which has evolved in many ways.

Meet Some of the Popular Nollywood Child Actors of the 1990s

7. Genevieve Nnaji 

Many people got to know about Genevieve Nnaji’s career in Nollywood when she reached adulthood. Well, this great and beautiful actress started her career as a child actor when she was 8 years old when she featured in Ripples.

Also a child, she appeared in several other TV commercials before she took a break and later returned.

She then became famous for her roles in Blood sisters (2003), Power of Love (2002) and 30 Days (2006).

For playing many roles and being one of the most talented Nigerian actors, Genevieve has been nicknamed Nollywood’s Julia Roberts. Currently, the Imo State native has been featured in a Hollywood film called Farming.

She also produces and directs films.

6. Peter Bunor Junior

Peter Bruno Jr, the son of late actor Peter Bruno was born in 1989 and was involved in school stage plays at a young age. By the time he was about the age of 6, he was featured in his first film and quickly became one of the most notable child actors.

He played several roles in Enemies (1998), Narrow Escape (1999), Eye for Eye (1999), Curse from Beyond (1999), and Lost Hope (2000).

He put his acting career the stop after he encountered a lot of people who kept shouting his name. Although it was friendly, it started to make him question if he wanted that life for the rest of his life.

Bruno Jr. had big dreams as a child. He revealed in an interview that he wanted to work with NASA. Well, things didn’t turn out exactly as he wanted when he headed to the University of Abuja to study public administration.

He worked with the government before he became the Co-founder and Growth Lead at Field Intelligence. The company is a pharmaceutical supply chain that is helping the government and businesses gain access to healthcare in numerous places in the world.

5. Williams Uchemba

This actor is one of the few Nollywood actors who started as a kid actor and still has a good place as an actor in the Nigerian movie industry. He was born in 1994 and started acting in 2000 when he was 6.

He played his first role in The Journey of Dead in 2000. In 2002, he won the Best Actor award at the Movie Academy Award for his role in Oh My Son.

He continued with his acting career and featured in films such as Beyond Belief (2003), Egg of Life (2003), and Dorathy My Love (2005). In his earliest acting career, Uchemba shared the same stage with actors such as Omotola Jalade, Emeka Enyiocha, Sam Loco Efe, Eucharia Anunobi, and Funke Akindele.

Although he later took a hiatus, Williams Uchemba made a comeback in the movie industry and appeared in renowned films. Some of them include Merry Men 2 (2019), Sugar Rush (2019), Dear Affy (2020), Quam’s Money (2021), and Merry Men 3: Nemesis (2023).

Apart from acting, he also owns a production company, Prosthesis Entertainment Limited. The company produced the fil1 Mamba’s Diamond in 2021. The film features actors like Gabriel Afolayan, Venita Akpofure, Nse Ikpe-Etim, and Osas Ighodaro.

In his private life, he married Brunella Oscar in November 2020.

4. Samuel Ajibola

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As a boy of 6 in 1995, Ajibola started his acting career at Tears of Love. As an actor, Ajibola featured in films such as Without Love, Eye-Witness, Onome II, and Day of Reckoning while he was a child.

He won the award for Best Kid Actor for three consecutive years, making him the first child actor to achieve this.

After gaining fame, Samuel Ajibola took a hiatus from his acting career to complete his secondary education. In 2009, he attended the University of Lagos where he obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science in 2012.

He subsequently obtained a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo State.

The Day of Reckoning actor is currently an actor, producer, and youth ambassador. He is famed for featuring in The Last Flight to Abuja, The Johnsons (2012), Shuga (2013), and Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons (2018).

Away from his career, Ajibola is married to Sandra Ajibola, a medical laboratory scientist and entrepreneur. The couple has a son Prince Erza .A.Jidenna Ajibola.

His family has been involved in a controversy over the paternity of his child. After he shared a picture of himself, his wife, their son, and former Nigeria president Olusegun Obasanjo. An Instagram sensation known as Gossip Bobo came out to claim that Sandra was Obasanjo’s secretary and also, and he also insinuated that Ajibola’s son with his wife could have been fathered by Obasanjo.

On November 17, 2023, Ajibola and his wife filed a lawsuit for defamation of character.

3. Samuel Ajirebi Olasehinde

Samuel is the son of actor Ajirebi Kayode Olasehinde, popularly known as Pa James. The younger Ajirebi started as a child actor in the 1990s. He gained fame when he featured in Oshodi Oke.

He appeared in several other films before he took a break from his career. While on break, he attended Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) where he studied Law.

He was later called to the Nigeria bar. Even at that, Samuel does not practice law. Instead, he returned to the Nigerian movie industry and continues as an actor and a writer.

As an actor, Samuel Ajirebi has appeared in Flatus (2022), Ere Oran (2022), Harmony of Dreams (2022), Mokalik (Mechanic), and Abeni (2006).

As a writer, he is credited for writing Different Strokes (2023) and Imelda (2022).

See Also: 10 Longest Marriages in Nollywood

2. Azeez Ijaduade

In 1992, Azeez got his first movie role. His career bloomed in 1994 when he played Ola in the Yoruba film Jensimi alongside his father Waheed Ijaduade (Olaiya Igwe).

The Moshood Abiola Polytechnic graduate has gone on to feature in other films such as Iru Esin, Okanlomo, Ise Onise, The Ghost & I, The Living Ghost, Osan Ja, and Broken.

In his private life, there are reports that he is a father of two girls.

1. Chelsea Chinenye Oguejiofor

After she featured in Nneka the Pretty Serpent and also became famous for playing Omotola Jalade’s daughter in Blood Sisters, Chinenye Oguejiofor’s career as an actress went down.

While on break, she studied Department of Dental Surgery, at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

While she keeps a private life at the time of this report, there are reports that she intends to return to the movie industry.

The post 7 Nollywood Child Actors Of The 1990s Where Are They Today? appeared first on WeAfrique.

Talent and tenacity are two words that easily describe Björgvin who isn’t just an exciting actor to watch out for but also a business-minded teen. He has a clothing line called the “Loserclub” and also shares a passion for making short animation videos and comic books.

Meet Björgvin Arnarson; He’s Biracial and Has Artistic Roots

Björgvin Arnarson is 18 years old at the moment as he was born on November 24 2005 to his Icelandic father and Floridan mother. Given this, it’s easy to see that he’s of mixed heritage. He has also explained that his name Björgvin means savior or trusted friend hinting that it is of Icelandic origin. Bjorg comes from the old Norse which means to save or help while the other part Vinur translates to friend.

He grew up in a military family in the United States alongside his fraternal twin brother who is only 3 minutes older than him. However, his family relocated to Japan at a young age. 

While information about his parents is limited, we gathered that his father was once a member of a band and performed in the theater. It’s no surprise that he and his brother share this artistic passion even though the older twin does more musicals and ballet dance.

As for his education, he went to a Japanese kindergarten and an international school. He has also taken a lot of acting classes to hone his acting talent and bring his characters to life.

A Look at His Acting Career

As hinted earlier, Björgvin Arnarson is from an artistic family and naturally developed an interest in that path. He started performing at community theatres in Japan at an early age and making short films. In 2019 at the age of 4, he made his television debut in the sitcom “Family Time” where he portrayed Elijah. The TV  series was directed by Bentley Kyle Evans and starred actors like Omar Goodling, Angell Conwell, and Clayton Thomas.

Following Björgvin’s debut movie, he started auditioning for several roles with the help of an agent when he decided to take acting seriously. Soon enough, he was called for a brief role in the Hulu comedy show, “PEN15”  and later the featured film, “The Seventh Day” as Alec ‘Carson’ Arnarson.

In 2021, he got his acting breakthrough in the  SyFy/USA series “Chucky” where he portrayed Devon Evans, a charming and charismatic character who unfortunately got entangled in mysterious murders caused by an old Chucky doll. Other casts of the series are Zarkery Arthur as Jake, Alyvia Alyn Lind as Lexy, and Tiffany.

Björgvin Arnarson is also a Filmmaker

Not so many young actors begin a film-making career this early as they have to juggle a lot of things. Surprisingly, Björgvin is among the exceptional few talents who have decided to be active in acting and filmmaking.

According to an interview, the two brothers began making stop motion films when they were in kindergarten using their parent’s old camcorder and have remained passionate about] drawing and filmmaking. Björgvin also added that he has worked on a few short films.

The post Who Is Björgvin Arnarson? Facts About Him appeared first on WeAfrique.

In addition to being one of the sought-after actresses to grace our TV screens, she has a fascinating personal life as well. She is the mother of one child, a daughter she shares with her husband, Thando Sonqishe.

Buhle Samuels’ early life and background

Born May 25, 1990, 33–year-old Buhle Samuel has often been described as someone who does not seem to age. She was born in Soweto but was raised in Pretoria.

Details about her parents show that her mother was the closest to the actress as nothing is known about her father. Her mother was a health practitioner who worked as a nurse to make ends meet for the family. By family, we mean, Buhle, her older sister, Mbali Samuels, and their mother. Her mother once lived in Saudi Arabia.

She started her career as a TV host

Years before Buhle became a household name, she worked as a TV host. Dating back to 2014, she hosted on African magic. Later, she became a regular face as a breakfast show host on M-Net. She was quite the star and this pushed her into taking acting roles on screen.

Her career breakthrough came in 2014 after she got the role of Matshidiso Mofokeng in SABC Muvhango. It is worth noting that she also ran a mobile beauty salon while pursuing an acting career.

More on her most acclaimed role, Samuels was chosen by the producers because they had seen her in the audition she did for Lion King. The Lion King audition was quite impressive and it convinced the producers that she was good at what she does.

Thankfully, the role gave her the attention that any rising actress needs. The role earned her the nomination for Best Newcomer at the 2nd Annual Royalty Soap Award. In 2018, she announced that she would be leaving the show to focus on her music career. She has acted in other acclaimed works like Mbewu: The Seed, One Night, and King of Jo’Burg.

As mentioned, aside from gracing our TV screens as an actress and host, she is also a singer. She is signed to 999, a record label founded by Arthur Mafokate and now run by his son, Lesego.  So far, she has released songs like; Every Woman, Dim the Lights, Cheater.

The actress quietly got married to Thando Sonqishe in 2022

Buhle sure knows how to keep her love away from the public and unsurprisingly, not many were aware that she had done her traditional marriage to a man named Thando Sonqishe, a businessman in March 2022. Prior, she revealed that she does not share personal details about her life because it belongs to her. However, she hinted that her ‘…ideal man is down to earth, ethical guy. He has to be respectful and kind’.

As it is, she may have this and even more if her quiet marriage with Thando is anything to go by. Though she likes to stay away from scandal, she was caught in one when speculations started about the ‘real’ work her work husband does. Notably, the claim started making the rounds when a social media user M.M. claimed that Thando was a gangster who was involved in a past heist.

As it is, the South African actress never responded to these claims. Based on her silence about the matter, these claims remain only speculation.

See Also: Nozipho Zulu – 10 Facts To Know About The South African Celebrity

She welcomed her daughter in 2022

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The talented actress is also a mother. She welcomed a daughter on December 12, 2022. Samuels revealed the arrival of her daughter via her social media update.

While reacting to the news, many fans and followers expressed shock as she had never given any clues to being pregnant. Like her traditional marriage with Thando who also happened to be her daughters’ father, many did not see it coming.

The post Buhle Samuels: Everything To Know About The Actress appeared first on WeAfrique.

By the time she was 18, she had discovered another love while training to be the best at her first love.

Brenda Mhlongo married the love of her life, Edmund Mhlongo, in 1998. He was her theater director at the K-CAP Art Academy at Kwamashu, where Brenda studied.

Three kids later and about two decades spent in marital bliss, the merger of both loves seemed to have gone south, and one of them suffered for it as rumors began to make waves that Edmond had secretly gotten married to another student of his.

Brenda Mhlongo is a 43-year-old South African Actress

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Brenda Mhlongo is a South African-born actress whose passion for acting dates back to when she was still a teenager.

She was born on August 14, 1980, and grew up in the Durban town of Kwamashu, KwaZulu-Nata. One of the constant people in her life while she grew up was her mother, who practically brought her up.

Brenda lost her father, who was a miner, at the age of 13 after he was brutally murdered upon his move to Johannesburg in search of greener pastures for his family.

At the age of 16, Mhlongo was convinced that she had discovered her true calling, which was acting. She then signed up for the Ekhaya Multi-Arts Center program organized by K-CAP Art Academy. The course was in her hometown, Kwamashu, KwaZulu-Natal.

Through this course, she got to live her dream of being an actress and soon began to conquer the world.

She Got Married to her Art Academy Director at the Age of 18 and Enjoyed about 2 Decades of Marital Bliss with Him

Brenda got married at the age of 18 to the director of the K-CAP Art Academy, Kwamashu, Edmund Mhlongo. They met while she was a student there, and although we do not have full information about how their relationship started and progressed to the point of marriage, we do know that Brenda is eternally grateful to Edmund.

According to the film and stage actress, her husband has been her motivation and a huge supporter of her since the get-go.

Obviously, seeing that she continued to strive to be a great actress after her education at the academy, her husband must have played a very vital role in this.

However, her praise goes deeper than just the preliminary stages of her career.

While Brenda toured across America, Europe, and Asia, performing the role of Rafiki, which she bagged in 2007 for the Festival of the Lion King play, her husband was very supportive.

It was at that point that she and Edmund realized the key to their happy marriage, and spending over 5 years apart only made their love grow fonder.

The actress admitted that she missed her family deeply and was safe on Skype; she only saw them twice a year. Somehow, she and Edmund found a way to make things work, and whenever they saw it, the flames their love burned rekindled.

• When Things began to go South

However, what seemed to have worked for this once-happy couple back in 2007 doesn’t seem sustainable anymore.

Back then, a distance involving continents worked well for their marriage, but as of the early 2020s, it wasn’t so.

Rumors began to make waves that the couple were no longer together after Brenda Mhlongo’s husband, Edmund Mhlongo, secretly got married to another woman.

The news revealed that the K-CAP Art Academy director had been secretly seeing another student of his and even getting her pregnant.

This reportedly happened while Brenda was filming in Johannesburg. According to a report, Edmund admitted to having gotten his student, Nkosi Mpanza, pregnant because his wife was away and he needed company.

Brenda allegedly found out that her husband had also secretly married the lady during the long Easter weekend.

Although the couple is not yet divorced, they remain separated as the Generations actress moved out of their home and back to her house in Port Shepstone. She has been there for a long time now, and it seems what’s left of the marriage might be a divorce.

Brenda Mhlongo is a Mother of 3

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The union between Edmund Mhlongo and the South African actress saw the birth of three children. Their kids are named Nozibusiso Diamini Mhlongo, also called ‘Zama’, Snikiwe Mhlongo, and Nethezeko Mhlongo.

Her second daughter is as famous as she is and is widely known in South Africa as a YouTuber who has amassed a great following and fans.

She even once went viral for recording her boyfriend, actor Zamani Mbatha, whom she caught cheating with another woman.

Do You Know That She Has Been in a Number of Movies and Stage Plays

Since Brenda Mhlongo’s career as an actress propelled her into stardom, she has been a part of quite a number of notable movies, series, and stage plays in and out of South Africa.

Her first recorded TV role was in 2014 on the 19th episode of the 5th season of eTV’s eKasi: Our Stories. That same year, she got another role as a guest star on SABC1’s Ihawu, where she acted in just one episode of the TV series.

In 2015, after garnering wide recognition for her prowess and potential, Mhlongo bagged another guest role in SABC1’s first season of Uzalo. The next year, she got to play the role of Nandi in Generations: The Legacy, which is by far her most known and appreciated role. She played the role of Nandi for two years on the show before leaving.

When she left that role, rumors began to make waves that she was kicked off the show. This prompted the actress to give an exclusive interview to DRUM Magazine where she cleared up the air.

She revealed that she wasn’t kicked off the show but that she didn’t sign another contract with the show producers because her character’s stint in the TV series had come to an end.

After her role in Generations, she went back to focus on her foundation known as the Brenda Mhlongo Worldwide Foundation. She confessed that playing Nandi didn’t afford her the time to oversee the foundation, so she was going to pour her time into it.

By 2019, Edmund Mhlongo’s estranged wife went on to play the role of Zodwa on the soap opera, The Queen. She made her cameo in the third season of the series and then continued to be a regular in the fourth season.

By 2020, she took up the role of Pricilla Kamadonsela Bhengu on the e.tv series known as Imbewu.

She also plays Nomafu Hlophe on the TV series River.

TV aside, Brenda also had stints as a show host. She hosted certain shows as a guest host, and these include SABC1’s Zaziwa Music Talk Show and Top Billing. She was also a presenter at the SABC’s Crown Gospel Music Award show in November 2018.

As mentioned already, she also has stage play on her resume, and her role in the Festival of the Lion King earned her notable international awards.

Brenda Mhlongo was awarded the Broadway Spain Award for Best New Artist as well as the Broadway Spain Award for Best Artist.

The post Who Is Brenda Mhlongo? Is She Married? appeared first on WeAfrique.

Because of her popularity, her love life has been of interest to her fans and the general public. The 45-year-old entertainer has never said ‘I do’ but has a child from her previous relationship. Keep reading to find out more.

Katlego Danke Has Never Been Married

Contrary to the rumors that have circulated on various platforms, Katlego Danke has never been married. She is currently single and enjoying her life.

Katlego is very private about her love life. She does not reveal much about her romantic affairs or partners. She may prefer to keep it that way in the future. However, it is clear that the actress has experienced love at some point in her life, as she became a mother.

She Had Her First Child in 2014

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Katlego is a very private person, but she has shared some glimpses of her son with the world. She gave birth to her son in October 2014 in South Africa. She posted the first photo of her son on Instagram in May 2015, showing only his feet. Later, on January 5, 2020, she shared a slideshow of her son’s pictures, but still hid his full face.

Katlego revealed in an interview with Sowetanlive that she would like to have more children, but she is not in a hurry. She said that children are energetic and hard to handle. She also admitted that she was still learning how to balance being a mother and an actress.

Katlego took a break from the entertainment industry after her son was born, but she soon made a comeback. She hosted the live Lotto draw and then joined the cast of the SABC 3 soap opera Isidingo.

However, Katlego has never disclosed the identity of her son’s father. She has kept that part of her life a mystery to date.

SEE ALSO: Nichole Galicia – Is She Married? 10 Other Facts

Is She Dating Patrice Motsepe?

After Katlego’s son was born, rumors began to circulate that she had been in an affair with SA mining billionaire businessman, Patrice Motsepe. In addition, Katlego is reportedly pregnant with her second child with Patrice Motsepe. She is also alleged to be sharing custody of her first child with the billionaire.

Even though many people assumed there must have been some sort of catalyst that caused Motsepe to be described as the actress’s lover, both the actress and Patrice Motsepe dismissed the claims.

Katlego did not seem to care much about the rumors of her relationship with Patrice. She said that she would use the publicity of the rumor to boost her career. She also said that her main focus was on raising her son and pursuing her passion.

As we have seen, Katlego is very secretive about her personal life. She is not married or in a relationship, according to her current status. She has also never announced any engagement in the past.

Did You Know These Facts About Katlego Danke?

1. Danke was born in the North West on November 7, 1978, and she spent her early years in towns such as Mahikeng, Ga-Rankuwa, Mabopane, and Potchefstroom.

2. She obtained her BA in Theatre and Performance at the University of Cape Town in 2001 and is renowned for stage performances in theatre productions such as Beyond the Veil, and The House of Kalumba. 

3. Katlego started her professional career in 2002, and in 2006, she had an appearance on Generations, for which she was recognized with a South African Film and Television Awards for Best Actress.

4. She earned a spot among FHM’s top 100 sexiest women in the world in both 2006 and 2011. Also, She was a 2010 YOU Amazing Award finalist for Favorite Actress. In addition to being nominated for Best Dressed Actress at the 2009 South African Film and TV Awards, she was also up for Best Screen Villain at the Duku-Duku Awards in 2004.

5. In 2007 Danke was stabbed in the forehead as she was leaving the SABC radio studios in Auckland Park, Johannesburg, on Saturday morning. She was attacked by an unknown person as she was approaching the parking lot, at about 4 a.m.

The post Is Katlego Danke Married? Husband, Kids, Other Facts appeared first on WeAfrique.

While this is not an exhaustive list, you will easily find talented actors like Olu Jacobs, Ramsey Nouah, and Sam Loco are known even beyond the TV screens of Nigerian homes.

12 Greatest Nollywood Actors That You Should Know

1. Olu Jacobs

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He is one of the greatest actors in the industry. Also known as the Godfather of Nollywood, Olu Jacobs has been in the entertainment industry as far back as the 70s when he appeared in television series.

Aside from this, he has also featured in British productions like Till Death Do Us Part(1974) and The Goodies(1971).

After spending over five decades as an actor, he won the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021. Off the cameras, he has one of the longest marriages in the industry. He has been married to Joke Silva for many decades and together, they founded the Lufodo group, a production company.

2. Pete Edochie

He started his career as a broadcaster. However, he gained expansive fame in the 80s after playing Okonkwo’s role in the television adaptation of Things Fall Apart by the award-winning author Chinua Achebe.

His captivating skill has seen him translate many roles over the years and earned him recognition. Some of his known works include; Lionheart(2018), Idemili(2014),King of the Jungle(2004), and Oracle(1998).

In 2003, he was honored with the title of Member of the Niger by former president Olusegun Obasanjo. Edochie is also the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement award as well as an Industry Merit award.

3. Richard Mofe-Damijo

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He has acted in more than 100  movies and remains one of the greatest Nollywood actors of all time. Popularly known by his initials RMD, he has honed his skills as a versatile actor through the roles he played over the years.

In 2005, he stole the award for Best Actor in a Leading Role at the maiden editions of the prestigious AMAA. Since then, he has added other accolades including the Lifetime Achievement Award. So far he has starred in movies such as Far From Home(2022), Love is War(2019), Castle &Castle(2018), The Wedding Party(2016), and Behind Closed Doors(2005)

As one of the most internet-savvy actors of his generation, RMD’s social media uploads of his personal and professional life show that he is not slowing down anytime soon.

4. Desmond Elliot

The actor and producer is one of the acclaimed masters of the craft. He was born in Lagos to a Yoruba father and a Delta mother. His career has spanned many decades during which he took many roles in over 200 movies.

This industry giant started his career after a friend persuaded him. Years later, he has become a movie maker in his own right through his movie production and directing.

In 2015, he added politics to his growing portfolio when he won a seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly representing the Surulere constituency.

His movie roles have earned him awards like Best Actor at the Nigerian Entertainment Awards in 2009 and 2010. The screen Lord is taking it all as some of his directorial works such as Knocking on Heaven’s Door(2014), Guilty Pleasure(2009), and Finding Mercy(2015) are considered to be great movies.

5. Nkem Owoh

Known for his comedy roles, he is also known as Ukwa or Usuofia by movie lovers. In 2008, his acclaimed role in Stronger Than Pain(2007) earned him the AMAA award for Best Actor in a Leading Role.

He has also starred in Chief Daddy(2018), Lion Heart(2018), John Bull and Rosekate(2007), and Usoufia in London(2003).

6. Jim Iyke

For movies, pundits have been captivated by the acting career of James Ikechukwu Esomugha who is popularly known by his stage name, Jim Iyke. He was born in Gabon but became famous after he launched an acting career in the movie industry in 2001.

His portrayal of an arrogant rich man, lover boy, and spoilt rich kid among many others has added to his perception as ‘Nollywood’s Badboy’. He has appeared in more than a hundred movies and placed himself among the great actors in the industry. He has appeared in highly acclaimed movies like Last Flight to Abuja(2010), Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons(2018), Royal Madness(2009), and Beyonce & Rihanna(2008).

Aside from his screen time, Jim Iyke is a businessman and movie producer through his Untamed Production company. Considering his stellar performance, it is not surprising that he has garnered awards including; NET Most Popular Nollywood Actor(2019), GIAMA Best Nollywood Actor(2015),  and Best Actor of Afro North American Award(2006).

7. Ramsey Nouah

He is one of Nollywood’s most loved actors. Also known as Lover Boy due to his translation of romantic roles, Ramsey Nouah has proven over time that he is a versatile actor when given other roles.

He launched his career in the 90s and rose to stardom after his 1996 appearance in Silent Night. Ramsey Nouah has acted in hundreds of movies including Living in Bondage: Breaking Free(2019), Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons(2018), The Figurine(2009), Tears and Sorrow(2002), My Love(2002), and Love Boat(2001).

Aside from acting, the Nollywood Lover Boy made his directorial debut in Living in Bondage: Breaking Free. The work earned him the AMVCA award for Best Director. His other awards include; the AMAA Award for Best Lead Actor(2010, 2017), AFRIFF Global Awards for Best Actor(2016), and Nigerian Entertainment Award for Best Actor(2007).

8. Sam Loco

His death in 2011 is considered a life cut short by many who felt he had more to offer. Yet, more than a decade after the death of this legendary actor, Sam Loco’s movies remain a lasting legacy of his career. The veteran actor is one of the builders of the Nigerian movie industry having launched his career in the 60s. Though he set out to be a footballer and even got the nickname locomotive or ‘loco’ for short, it was acting that made him famous.

In the years before he came to the limelight, the late actor struggled to be a footballer while working as a sales representative to support himself. However, his passion for acting led to his sacking. This experience pushed him to embrace acting.

He is said to have been featured in more than 500 movies including A Fool at 40(2006), Final World Cup(2005), Long John(2002), Ukwa(2001), and Owo Blow(1996).

9. Kanayo O. Kanayo

If you have seen the Nollywood movie titled Billionaire Club, Kanayo O. Kanayo will not be a strange name. He started his career in the 80s doing TV productions for NTA.

His career took another turn after he made his debut appearance in the 1992 movie, Living in Bondage. This role soon made him a household name as well and set a tone for his appearance in occultic roles.

Subsequently, he has proven to be a skilled actor with roles outside of the occultic such as his portrayal in the comic series, Professor Johnsbull. He appeared in Family Battle(2005), Up North(2018), Living in Bondage: Breaking Free(2019)

Aside from acting, he is a budding lawyer and politician. His stellar performance has earned him awards like the AMAA for Best Actor(2006) after his appearance in Family Battle.

10. John Okafor

Popularly known as Mr. Ibu, the comic actor started his acting career in 1978 with appearances in Ogbu Anyanwu, Kwere Kira, and Hotel de Jordan. However, it took him some years before he made it to stardom.

His breakout role in the industry was in the 2004 movie Mr. Ibu which earned him his moniker. He has appeared in more than 200 movies including Police Recruit(2003)Yahooze Prophets(2009), and Honeymoon Guys(2015).

Mr. Ibu has been influential in the careers of other actors who now look up to him as their motivation.

11. Osita Iheme

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No Nigerian actor has been widely used as a meme as Osita Iheme who is also known as Paw-paw. The comic actor was born normal but over time stopped growing and has since proven to be a Nollywood giant through his successful career.

He made his way to stardom after appearing in the 2002 movie Aki na Ukwa. Since his appearance alongside Chinedu Ikedieze in many movies, the sidekicks are rarely seen apart from each other. Notable among his movies are Aka Gum(2002), Baby Police(2003), Christmas in Miami(2021), and Welcome to Africa(2023).

His rib-cracking roles as a comic actor earned him recognition as a Member of the Order of the Niger in 2011. Professionally, he has also won many accolades including the Lifetime Achievement. The meme star and actor is not only a screen hero as is seen in his many charitable works such as the Inspired Movement Africa aimed at motivating talented Youths

See Also: 12 Greatest Nollywood Actresses Ever

12. Chinedu Ikedieze

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Like his collaborator, Paw-paw, Chinedu Ikedieze earned his lifelong nickname Aki following the success of his breakout role in Aki na Ukwa(2002). He launched his career in 2000 at the age of 23 and has since been featured in movies like Tom and Jerry, and Charge and Bail.

As one would find, he and fellow collaborator, Paw-paw have come a long way in featuring in movies together. However, this has not stopped him from being featured alone as he did in Palava(2022), Across the Niger(2004), and in the TV series The Johnsons.

Apart from this, he is a real estate investor as well as a serial entrepreneur. Considering his colorful performance on screen that thrills many, it is not surprising that he is the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007.

The post 12 Greatest Nollywood Actors Ever appeared first on WeAfrique.

Growing up in the shadows of his famous father, Young V has since learned the ropes of the entertainment industry. He has juggled a number of paths and is currently active as an actor and comic who is known for movies such as I Got The Hook Up 2, The Team, and Decisions.

While you’ll soon meet Young V, his father Master P doesn’t need so much introduction. He has long become a force in the industry as an actor, rapper, producer, and entrepreneur. With his indelible mark as an icon, it’s no surprise that his children are riding on his coattails while carving a path for themselves on the same trail.

Young V is a Native of New Orleans

Young V was born Vercy Miller on July 26, 1991, to Percy Robert Miller and Sonya C  in New Orleans, Louisianna, United States. The 32 is the second child of his father’s 9 children. Others are Romeo, Veno, Tytyana( late), Intylyana, Cymphonique, Itali, Hercy, and Mercy. However, Veno and Cymphonique are his half-siblings.

Unlike most entertainers, the yearning of pursuing an acting career started after his first appearance in a movie in 2004 which spurred his career in acting.

He Comes From a Famous Family 

 

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His Father, Master P, Is Industrious

Young V’s father, Master P, is  53-year-old American actor, rapper, producer, retired basketballer,  and entrepreneur. He is the founder of the record label No Limit Records, which was later relaunched through Koch Records and Universal Records; with a new brand name “New No Limits Records”. However, it was later rebranded to “No Limit Forever Records” and his deals have made him sell over a 75million records worldwide.

His enterprises have also been successful and according to him, in his Family Empire, the goal is to prepare his children in a position where they can make decisions relating to their careers.

Young V’s Mother Sonya C is Also a Rapper

Aside from being the mother of Master P’s seven children, Young V’s mother, Sonya C  also shares artistic passion. She is a rapper from Richmond Califonia who made her professional debut with her album, Married To The Mob in 1993. Before releasing the album, she sang and performed with her ex-husband Master P on many occasions.

As you would easily find, Young V’s parents were married for 24 years before they divorced in 2014 due to Infidelity.

His Siblings are also Renowned in Their Own Rights

Apparently, Young V is not the only famous child of Master P. His siblings also share the same musical passions and are trying to leave their legacies in the industry. His eldest brother, Romeo is a rapper, who was known by his stage name Lil Romeo when he started. His half-siblings Veno and Inty are also pursuing careers in the industry. The former is into rap while the latter is a singer and like other family members, they have starred in a few movies.

Cymphonique, Itali, and Tytyana have the same career line, though Cymohonique is into singing too. The girls are into acting and have gained some fame for themselves. Sadly, Tytyana passed away in 2022 due to a mental illness.

Hercy who is the youngest is an upcoming basketballer who currently plays for Xavier University’s basketball team after he reportedly got signed with a $2 million contract deal.

Read Also: Baron Bellamy Is Bill Bellamy’s Son: 10 Fascinating Facts About Him

A Look at Young V’s Music and Acting Career

Young V started his career as a rapper as part of the Rich Boyz rap group. However, he switched to acting after his debut role in 2004 at the age of 13. He appeared in a minor role (Home Alone) in The  Decisions.

Subsequently, he was featured in the film The Team ( 2005) Which led to his role in I Got The Hook Up 2. He acted in the film alongside his siblings, Cymphonique and Romeo Miller. His father was also one of the screen players. According to a source, the movie made $234. 8k  at the US Box Office.

The actor took his career into another dimension and it seems he has a thing for comics. He recently started working in their family company, VIM Comics. In 2018,  his family unveiled the new superhero characters, books, and the movie Eyes of Esca, a comic series of shape-shifting octopus heroes that happens in the swamp of New Orleans.

Is Young V in a Relationship?

Though a celebrity, Young P has managed to keep his private life from the public, particularly his lovelife. Nonetheless, we gathered that the actor is in a relationship with Brittney Meraki. The duo has been together for quite some time now.

Despite his penchant for privacy, he has been able to resist showing his girlfriend who is an artist, dancer, and fitness enthusiast. Oftentimes they display their affection through their social media handles.

What Is His Net Worth?

From what has been discussed so far, it’s obvious that Young V has multiple sources of income linked to his career in the entertainment industry. While he hasn’t disclosed how much he has earned from his career, multiple sources have estimated that he is at least worth $2 million. He made his fortune from his work at VIM Comics and his acting career.

On the other hand, his father Master P has a net worth estimated at $200 Million which can also be linked to his career in the entertainment industry.

The post Young V: Master P’s Son Is An Actor- Closer Look At Who He Is appeared first on WeAfrique.

The American artist, Dorian Missick, and actress Simon Missick have shared several years of their lives as a couple since exchanging vows in 2012. While their marriage hasn’t seen the birth of any child, the pair are solely focused on improving themselves and working hard to appear in more films and TV series.

Dorian Missick and Simone Missick First Met at an Audition

As hinted, Dorian Missick and Simone Missick have been married 54  for years now. According to established records, the pair first met in 2010 as colleagues during an audition in Los Angeles. Afterward, they started a relationship that lasted 9 months before they were engaged and later got married on 19 February 2012 with family and friends in attendance.

As of the time of this writing, the couple stays in Brooklyn, New York, United States where they pursue their careers in the entertainment industry. His wife Simone is a 42-year-old American film and television actress. She is widely known for her role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe series Luke Cage (2016-2018) as the character Misty Night.

Lesser Known Facts About Dorian Missick

1. He Is the Only Biological Child of his Parents

Dorian was born to his parents on January 15, 1976, in East Orange, New Jersey, USA. He is the only child his parents shared before their marriage ended. Nonetheless, he spent his childhood with the twin girls his parents adopted.

Following the end of his parent’s marriage, one of his parents had another relationship that birthed his half-sibling.

2. Dorian’s First Offer was a Cocoa-Cola Commercial In 1988

Dorian signed up for some acting courses at an academy and on the first day, some casting agents were searching for an actor for a Coca-Cola Commercial and Dorian Missick was fit for the role. Shortly after the commercial, he gained the role of a young fisherman in In the Heat of the Night.

While in pursuit of his career, Missick joined an educational company, NITE Star, where he created awareness of AIDS amongst Teens towards leaving an alternative lifestyle

3. He Got Into Music At The Age of 20

Even though Dorian started as an actor, he had always had a thing for music since childhood. To pursue his passion, he joined the Jazz Actors in Harlem under Ernie Mc Clintock which influenced the style and genre of music created and listened to which is Soul.

Aside from acting and singing, he has also dabbled into Disc Jockey under his stage name “DJ Tailwind Turner” and has been actively participating in the Soul Chic Festiva.  In fact, his wife Simone describes him as a phenomenal DJ.

As a DJ, he often hosts live sessions on Instagram where he raises money to motivate people and help essential workers.

4. He Has Acted in a TV Series/ Movie With His Wife

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe series Luke Cage, Dorian acted as the character ‘Cockroach’ Hamilton alongside his wife Simone who portrayed ‘Misty Knight’. His role was described as a darker villain who physically abused his partner and child.

Additionally, Misty Knight is a former NYPD police officer who becomes a private detective in Harlem. She detects and fights crime using hired heroes.

The contrast between these characters is shocking to fans knowing that Dorian and Simone are married.

In addition, the duo appeared in the movie A Cold Hard Truth ( 2019) where a journalist investigates the death of his cousin which was a suicide. Dorian acted as the journalist (Stewart Cooper) and Simone (Lanie Cooper) was the victim.

5. Dorian Missick and his wife Simone Missick Observe a Sacred Marital Ritual 

Dorian and his wife are both actors and have this adorable tradition; when the duo is about to go separate ways for their jobs, they always have this beautiful moment of saying goodbye. They pray, kiss, and embrace themselves before departing. The only time they have been apart is when they are at work and they look forward to seeing each other.

6. The Artist Once Suffered a Collar Bone Injury

Several years ago, Dorian experienced an unfortunate accident that left him with a broken collarbone. It happened during a winter trip in 2012 when he and his friends decided to go skating. Unfortunately, he slipped and fell, resulting in the injury.

Despite the pain, he didn’t let it ruin their night and still went to have fun at the club. However, Dorian never returned to skating since the incident.

See Also: Moses Simon Is Married To Ibukun Sarah Adenuga: Other Things About Him

7. Dorian Missick’s Net worth

The 48 -year-old actor has been working so hard and his career at its best. Dorian has been able to take leads in movies and TV Series which has earned him a good amount of money. Even though his net worth is yet to be ascertained at the moment, Weafrique guesstimates him at $2 million judging from his career and lifestyle.

From our findings, he earns about $20 per hour and $100,000 per episode for television series where he is the main cast. While acting majorly has been the source of his income, his music career has not been left out, and his annual income is estimated at around $400,000- $500,000.

The post Dorian Missick Is Married To Simone Missick: 7 Untold Facts About Him appeared first on WeAfrique.

While the world and followers of series like the Vampire Diaries and its sequels can’t get enough of Okojie, it seems that she has so much to offer looking at how far she has come. Here is everything to know about the stunning actress cum dancer.

Fascinating Facts About Omono Okojie

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1. Her Early Life and Background

Omono Okojie as you would easily find was born to Nigerian parents in the port city of Lagos in the southwestern part of Nigeria. Though she has not revealed her date of birth, there are speculations that she may have been born on March 9, 1988.

Okojie has managed to keep details about her parents and personal life private making it hard to know their identities. Moreso, it is unclear whether she was is an only child or not. It is gathered that she migrated to the US at a tender age and now lives in Los Angeles.

2. She Was Named After her Grandfather

Her name Omono is an Esan name that means my precious jewel. She was named after her grandfather.

Often, the name is confused with the Yoruba version which means a child is a child. However, looking at her Esan surname, Okojie, it is clear that hers is the Esan version. As to why her parents gave her such a name, it is not far from the family’s expectation of having a male child.

However, when her parents realized that she was not the male child that they had been expecting, they chose to give her the name Omono which means they had accepted the daughter they had regardless of its gender.

3. The Lagos-born Wrote Her First Novel in Primary School

As mentioned earlier, Omono’s parents were journalists and this influenced her taste in arts. Apparently, she started writing at that age to express her talents. She wrote her first novel when she was in primary 4. While such a feat was quite unmatched, the book made her think of quitting school. While she never did, she gave her classmates the novel which she wrote in a notebook to read.

Regardless of not publishing it, it helped her to remain fearless. As you would find on her social media updates, she puts this skill to practice in the content she creates.

4. Okojie was Exposed to Arts from a Young Age

From a young age, Omono was influenced by her parents who were journalists. Aside from being good at what they do, they also helped her to appreciate the artistic works around her. It is not surprising that this helped her to choose a career in the entertainment industry.

5. She Started Her Career as a Dancer

Omono is a dancer as can be seen in her social media uploads. Yet, not many people know that it was through her flexible body movements that she started her career. The Legacies actress has shared her dancing on different social media platforms like Tiktok and Instagram and on her website.

While she has not showcased her dance steps at contests, her moves celebrate her rich Nigerian heritage. Some songs she danced to include Iyanya’s Kukere and Leg Over by Major Lazer and Mr. Eazi.

6. Omono Made her First TV Appearance in NCIS

Her appearance in Saviors, an episode of NCIS in 2015 marked the beginning of her Television appearance. Prior to this, she had taken a small role in the 2014 film Accents for Actors.

At the time, she appeared as a pupil in the film which was directed by Tyler Wolfe and Elaine Loh. Soon after, she took on more roles that soon introduced her to a larger audience.

7.  Her Breakout Role was in Legacies

As you would easily find, her breakout role was as Cleo Sowande in the fantasy drama series Legacies. The show is a sequel to the Vampire Diaries and the Originals. Notably, she appeared in the 3rd and 4th seasons. While she gained popularity from Legacies, it was canceled in the 4th season because it could not match the durability of The Vampire Diaries. She has appeared in other works like;

• Trees of Peace(2021)-as Akimana
• The Road Not Taken(2019)-as Kim Short
• Lift(2018)-as Judy
• Gook (2017)-as Regina
• Country Road 12(2017)-as EMT
• Her Side of the Bed(2017)-as Bea Davis
• Bella and the Bulldogs 2016-as Space Girlfriend
• NCIS: Naval Criminal Investigative Service (2015)-as Bahar Tambai

8. The Nigerian-Born Actress cum Dancer is Outspoken 

Omono’s many talents do not only get to be seen on the movie screen and in dance videos, she is also an activist. A look through her social media updates shows that she is not afraid to lend her voice to causes that affect humans.

Some of these causes revolve around social justice issues as well as the need for people to vote for the right politicians. She is raising awareness for black people to succeed in the arts without being limited in her collaboration with the Breathing Room, a non-profit organization.

Her choice to be an activist may be due to the racism she encountered when she moved to the US. The actress revealed that it was in the 11 grade that it dawned on her of how people were treated for having a different color of skin. Since then, she has been a firm advocate of promoting blacks.

9. She Has Modeled for Brands

Considering all her social media poses, one would assume that she has an eye for fashion. It turns out that she also does modeling. In a July 2020 Instagram update, Omono revealed that she now does modeling for brands.

Apparently, she used to do rooftop photoshoots and this move to pose for brands marks another aspect of her many talents. Her fans and followers were quick to congratulate her on the fit.

See Also: Sharon Ooja: Bio Of The Actress, Is She Married? Other Facts

10. How Much is Omono Okojie’s Net Worth?

The 5feet 2 inches tall actress has an estimated net worth of over $200,000 which she made from her career. Though she has not verified this, Omono’s social media activities give credence to this amount.

The post Who Is Omono Okojie? 10 Interesting Facts About The Actress appeared first on WeAfrique.