Award-winning Nigerian actress and producer Funke Akindele recently opened up about the real grind behind her success in the entertainment world — and life in general.
In a candid chat with Chude Jideonwo on the #WithChude podcast, the “Jenifa” star didn’t sugarcoat it: success demands serious hustle.
“People want to do what I do, but I tell them — if you want to succeed, you’ve got to put in the hard work. No shortcuts.”
It’s all about discipline, resilience, and staying intentional. Despite dominating Nollywood’s box office four years in a row, Funke says she doesn’t rest on past wins — she keeps pushing forward. Even through personal challenges, she remains focused on her goals.
“You can’t let personal struggles stop the mission. I’ve learned to handle grief and stay on track.”
But just as her latest project, “Everybody Loves Jenifa,” was being celebrated, controversy stirred.
Skitmaker Ijoba Lande (Ganiyu Kehinde Morufu) went viral after claiming he was paid just ₦90,000 for a month of work on Funke’s set.
“I was excited she reached out. I didn’t even ask about payment — I thought it was my big shot.”
Later, he apologized and corrected the record, saying he was actually paid ₦190,000. He urged fellow creatives to value their work and never work for free.
“Even if Michael Jackson came back to life and called me, I’d still charge him.”
Lande also mentioned Funke wasn’t very approachable on set, adding fuel to public debate.
This incident has reignited conversations around fair pay, celebrity culture, and the harsh realities upcoming creatives face in Nollywood.
While Funke’s dedication is clear, the bigger questions remain:
- Should hard work excuse low pay for collaborators?
- Are new talents undervaluing themselves in the chase for fame?
- And should successful producers do more to support and mentor newcomers?
