Veteran Nollywood actor Anayo Modestus Onyekwere, professionally known as Kanayo O. Kanayo, has never shied away from calling out practices he believes are weakening Nollywood. Once again, the screen legend has raised his voice, this time questioning the growing trend of casting actors based on popularity and looks rather than talent.
In a video message posted on his Instagram page, Kanayo expressed worry that YouTube, which has become a booming space for Nigerian filmmakers, is falling into the same trap that nearly crippled Nollywood in its early years.
“I have decided to take my destiny in my own hands as it pertains to my platform on YouTube.
“Movie making is not about having a fine face, it’s about being a good actor, a good performer. So, with or without a fine face, that’s what I’ve decided to do. If you don’t like it, well, that’s quite unfortunate,” he said.
For Kanayo, this is more than a passing observation, it is a decision. He revealed that he will now dedicate his platform to spotlighting new and under-recognized performers, rather than relying on already famous faces to draw views.
Reflecting on Nollywood’s beginnings, he recalled how sponsorship and branding once destroyed the careers of many skilled actors who were deemed “not marketable.”
“There was an incident many years ago when we were trying to bring up this Nollywood business, about 25 years ago. Some sponsors woke up and started branding actors: ‘this one is not a good one, this one does not sell films.’ They killed the careers of those guys. I can mention names, but for the sanctity of this broadcast, I won’t,” he recounted.
He warned that history seems to be repeating itself, only this time through digital platforms, which could have the same devastating effect on genuine talent.
Kanayo O. Kanayo remains one of Nollywood’s most iconic pioneers. Since his breakthrough role in the 1992 hit Living in Bondage, he has built a career spanning over three decades, marked not only by memorable performances but also by his consistent defense of quality, discipline, and professionalism in filmmaking.
Source: ameyawdebrah.com/
