[MOVIES]Meet these Veteran Actors in Nollywood

These are the legends; the OGs of Nollywood who made us laugh, cry, and wonder “How Do They Do It?sMeet these Veteran Actors in Nollywood

If you’re a Nollywood fan, you’re no stranger to the legendary actors who helped build this cinematic empire from the ground up. These are the stars who made us laugh till our stomachs hurt, left us on the edge of our seats with suspense, and sometimes even had us reevaluating our life choices with their powerful performances. From their unforgettable roles to iconic lines, Nollywood’s veteran actors are the reason we can’t seem to look away from our screens.

Nollywood didn’t just appear out of nowhere—it was carefully crafted and shaped by the talents of these seasoned professionals. They blended a little stage magic, a dash of TV drama, and a rich mix of Nigerian culture to create the films we can’t stop watching. Just imagine a Nollywood movie without the deep, iconic voice of Pete Edochie delivering a thought-provoking line. Or envision a “Mama G” film without Patience Ozokwor bringing her unique mix of madness and witchcraft to the screen.

So, buckle up, and join us on a journey as we take a fun dive into the world of Nollywood’s veteran actors.

Pete Edochie – The King of Proverbs

And that voice—my God! If you’ve never heard Pete Edochie’s voice, have you truly experienced life? Perhaps you’ve been living under a rock. His voice commands attention like no other, capable of drawing you in with its depth or sending a chill down your spine. No one delivers African proverbs with the same weight and wisdom as he does. Pete Edochie doesn’t just portray kings in Nollywood; his majestic presence and unparalleled acting skills have made him one of the most revered and beloved figures in the industry. He is Nollywood royalty, and we’re fortunate to witness his reign. His latest project is Genevieve Nnaji’s Netflix feature, Lion Heart.

Kanayo O. Kanayo

There’s no role Kanayo O. Kanayo can’t master. Whether he’s playing the beloved uncle, the strict father, or one of Nollywood’s most fearsome ritualists, Kanayo brings it all to life. And let’s not forget, he’s also a lawyer in real life, so when he delivers those iconic Nollywood lines, you can be sure there’s wisdom behind them. Kanayo is the epitome of a Nollywood all-rounder. His versatility is unmatched—he can effortlessly switch from playing a priest one day, to a businessman the next, and a ritualist the day after, and you’ll believe every single role. His recent works include Afamefuna: An Nwa Boi Story and Living in Bondage: Breaking Free.

Nkem Owoh

Renowned for his comedic brilliance, Nkem Owoh (aka Osuofia) has had us laughing uncontrollably, yet he can effortlessly deliver a heart-wrenching performance like no one else. One moment, he’s making us laugh out loud in Osuofia in London, and the next, he’s pulling at our heartstrings in Obara’m. While Nkem Owoh is often celebrated for infusing Nollywood with his unique comedic charm, don’t be misled by his humour—he can seamlessly switch gears and deliver intense drama and powerful wisdom. His recent works include Lion Heart, Chief Daddy, and My Village People.

Olu Jacobs

Olu Jacobs is undeniably one of Nollywood’s true legends. If you haven’t seen him perform yet, can you truly say you’ve experienced Nollywood? Whether portraying a military officer, a family patriarch, or a wise elder, Olu Jacobs’ commanding presence on screen transforms every role into cinematic gold. With a career spanning decades, he continues to prove that talent knows no age. In addition to his extensive work in Nollywood, Jacobs has also made significant contributions to theatre, television, and film. Though he’s been less visible recently, his recent projects include Oloibiri and The Royal Hibiscus Hotel.

Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD)

If charisma had a face, it would undoubtedly be that of RMD. He’s not just an actor; he’s a whole vibe. He’s the Nollywood uncle everyone wishes they had—the one who shows up with effortless style and charm. Proof that fine men only get better with age, at 60-something, he’s still leaving younger stars in the dust. RMD’s range is unmatched! From his smooth-talking roles in the ‘90s to his powerhouse performances in modern classics like King of Boys and Castle and Castle, he knows how to stay relevant and captivating. Over the years, RMD has amassed numerous accolades, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2005, a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016, and a Black Star Honor at the Rhymes on Da Runway in Ghana in 2021.